AFROTC Program
Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do
What's in the Program?
The Air Force ROTC program at the University of Mississippi is comprised of the academic course work, weekly leadership lab and PT training. There are summer programs to further cadet skills and professional development. The cadets also hosts a variety of events throughout the year to enhance their preparation for a military career and strengthen their community of AFROTC cadets.
Academic Requirements
AS 101, 102 – Heritage and Values I, II
Students are introduction to the Air and Space Forces by examining general aspects of the Department of the Air Force, leadership fundamentals, service benefits, and opportunities for officers. By outlining the Air Force heritage and values, the courses lay the foundation for becoming an Air or Space professional.
Cadets gain a historical perspective on war and US military, AF operations, principles of war, and airpower. They understand the employment of air and space power, from institutional, doctrinal, and historical perspectives.
AS 201, 202: Team and Leadership Fundamentals I, II
Cadets gain a fundamental understanding of both leadership and team building. They are taught the many layers to leadership including listening, verbal and written communication skills, understanding yourself, being a good follower, and problem solving.
Cadets apply these skills when completing team building activities and discussing topics such as conflict management. They apply these lessons during field training.
AS 301, 302: Leading People and Effective Communication I, II
These courses are designed to build on cadets' leadership fundamentals through leadership roles in the detachment. They gain a deeper understanding of leadership being to take on detachment leadership roles.
Cadets will hone their writing and briefing skills, including gaining comfort with public speaking. The second semester is centered on leadership and ethics.
AS 401, 402: National Security, Leadership, Commissioning I, II
In this last year, cadets learn the basic elements of national security policy and process as well as current domestic and international issues affecting the military profession. Cadets understand the basic Department of the Air Force operations and selected roles of the military including the military justice system.
The final portion of the course sequence is designed to prepare cadets for life as a second lieutenant as they prepare to transition from civilian life to military life.
Summer Training
Field Training is a selective and intense eighteen-day program officer development program hosted at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. During the spring semester of sophomore year, cadets must apply for and earn an Enrollment Allocation (EA) in order to attend Field Training and continue in the AFROTC program.
Field Training is typically attended during the summer between the sophomore and junior year. This training is designed to develop military leadership and discipline in a high-pressure environment. Upon completion of Field Training, cadets receive their Prop and Wings and enter into the Professional Officer Corps (POC).
AFROTC cadets have many opportunities to travel and experience things typical college students only dream of. They can fly airplanes—or maybe jump out of one. They can learn hand-to-hand combat skills or gain insight into the day-to-day operations of an Air Force or Space Force base.
Cadets receive training pay for the duration of their trip, and most transportation, sustenance, and lodging expenses are covered.
What to Expect
Leadership Laboratories
Cadets will attend a weekly two-hour Leadership Laboratory (LLAB), organized by junior and senior cadets. LLAB develops communication, planning, organizational skills, physical fitness, and knowledge of military customs. Through hands-on leadership and management exercises, cadets gain valuable experience. Activities may include drill and ceremonies, leadership studies, Air Force officer career days, team-building exercises, and field training.
Physical Training
Cadets must attend at least two hour-long physical training (PT) sessions per week to maintain fitness and prepare for the Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA). PT activities include running, calisthenics, swimming, and HIIT workouts. The PFA, required for scholarship cadets each fall and spring, consists of push-ups, sit-ups, a 1.5-mile run, and a waist measurement. New cadets must complete a Pre-Participatory Sports Physical before participating.
Regular Events & Activities
Detachment 430 hosts a variety of events throughout the academic year, including:
- Field Training Exercises (FTX) – Hands-on training in field environments to enhance tactical and leadership skills. Det 430 owns and maintains our own paintball gear for these events.
- Physical Training (PT) Sessions – Biweekly workouts to maintain fitness and build teamwork and camaraderie.
- Guest Speaker Engagements – Active-duty Air Force officers and other military professionals share career insights and leadership advice.
- Base Visits – Ever wondered what life is like on an Air Force base? Base visits are a great way to peak behind the curtain on what a day-in-the-life of an Air Force officer and get exposure to various career field opportunities.
- Commissioning Ceremonies – Celebrating graduating cadets as they take their oath of office.
- Social & Community Service Activities – Volunteer work, fundraising, and cadet-led social gatherings to foster camaraderie.