Academic Programs and Offerings in Aerospace Studies

To be commissioned, cadets must meet the following requirements. 

Air Force Academic Classes

As a member of ROTC, you will enroll in unique Air Force classes that will give tools to succeed in your future career. All of the Aerospace Studies classes are taught by military faculty and distinguished guest speakers. A brief synopsis of each academic class you will be required to take throughout your ROTC career is found below. After completing all of the mandatory academic classes, cadets will earn a minor in Aerospace Studies (AS).

Freshman Year: AS 101/102 – Heritage and Values I, II (1 credit hour each) These courses provide an 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.  

Sophomore Year: AS 201/202 – Team and Leadership Fundamentals I, II  (1 credit hour each) This course sequence is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of both leadership and team building. Cadets are taught the many layers to leadership including listening, verbal and written communication skills, understanding yourself, being a good follower, and problem solving. They apply these skills when completing team building activities and discussing topics such as conflict management. Cadets will apply these lessons during field training.

Junior Year: AS 301/302 – Leading People and Effective Communication I, II  (3 credit hours each) 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.

Senior Year: AS 401/402 – National Security/Leadership/Commissioning I, II (3 credit hours each) In this last course sequence, 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.

Leadership Laboratory

Every cadet must attend the two hour Leadership Laboratory (LLAB) every week. LLAB is planned and run by the Junior and Senior cadets. During LLAB, cadets will develop effective communication skills, physical fitness, and knowledge of military customs and courtesies. LLAB is an excellent environment to improve verbal communication, planning and organizational skills. Cadets will gain valuable hands-on leadership and management experience with their peers.

Leadership Lab activities may include:

• Drill and Ceremonies
• Leadership Studies
• Air Force Officer Career Days
• Leadership Building Exercises
• Field Exercises