About NROTC

University of Mississippi Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps

image of student at commissioning ceremony presenting sword in salute to family member

About

The Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Unit at the University of Mississippi was founded in 1946. The unit is housed in Barnard Hall (216 Barnard Hall) in the heart of the beautiful University of Mississippi campus. The NROTC program offers well qualified young men and women the opportunity to commission as Naval or Marine Corps Officers while attending college. Although Ole Miss Midshipmen are held to a higher standard than most college students, the campus life of a Midshipman is essentially the same as that of a typical college student. Naval ROTC students make their own arrangements for room and board, participate in campus activities of their choice, attend classes according to their own schedule, and enjoy the camaraderie of the Naval ROTC experience.

In addition to his/her regular course studies, a Midshipman takes a variety of Naval Science classes which includes a two hour lab period once a week. Midshipmen also participate in three summer training cruises. These cruises introduce students to every facet of the Naval Service and offer Midshipmen the opportunity to travel to various units in the operational Navy and Marine Corps. Uniforms are provided to students and worn proudly on campus once a week.

The reward bestowed on a Midshipman as they commission as a Naval or Marine Corps Officer is an unparalleled honor. A commission in the United States Navy or Marine Corps leads to a career in a wide variety of challenging and exciting career fields. During their time as Midshipman, students explore careers as Naval Aviators, Naval Flight Officers, Surface Warfare Officers, Submarine Officers, Special Warfare Officers (SEALs), Explosive Ordnance Disposal Officers (EOD), and Marine Corps Officers.

Welcome from the Commander

Welcome to Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps at the University of Mississippi. This program will challenge you and continue to shape you into the future leaders of the Navy and Marine Corps. Whether you are returning to continue your progress or joining us for the first time, remember that each day is an opportunity to grow mentally, morally, and physically. Embrace the challenges ahead with determination and take them as an opportunity to become the best version of yourself. Your dedication and commitment to excellence will not only shape your own future but also the future of our armed forces. As you overcome the challenges ahead, do not forget to look to your peers, instructors, and mentors—they are here to support you every step of the way. Let us make this a year of personal growth, achievement, and service. Stay focused, stay motivated, and continue to set the standard for excellence in everything you do.

John Lauchlan Bub

Chair and Professor of Naval Science

History

Officially founded in 1946, the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps at the University of Mississippi has spent the better part of a century training the finest officers in our country's warfighting Navy and Marine Corps team.

The NROTC unit originally occupied what was then known as McCain Hall, now known as Barnard Observatory from its founding until 1991, where it was moved to Guyton Hall. The unit remained there until 2004 when it was moved to its current home in Barnard Hall at the heart of campus.

The NROTC unit has produced officers ranging from one of the few test pilots of the Northrop F-20 Tigershark to the Secretary of the Navy.