The Army ROTC program at Newberry College is designed to enhance a student’s college education by providing unique training and practical experience in leadership and management techniques essential to success in any career. Upon graduation from Newberry College, contracted Cadets who have successfully completed ROTC training are awarded a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army National Guard, or the U.S. Army Reserve.
Army ROTC is a chance to develop skills for success such as confidence, self-esteem, motivation, and the ability to lead others and make decisions. If students want to build towards a successful future, Army ROTC is one of the smartest college courses they will ever take. ROTC does not interfere with other academics, athletics, or extracurricular activities, but rather supports in developing well rounded leaders.
Newberry College ROTC is cross-enrolled with Presbyterian College’s Army ROTC program. Freshman and sophomore level Military Science classes are taught at Newberry College. Junior/Senior Cadets meet for class at Presbyterian College along with the Junior/Senior Cadets from Lander University. Additionally, labs are conducted at Presbyterian College on Thursday afternoons. Labs are optional for non-contracted students. Labs are fun and challenging and include live firing weapons at the local range, land navigation course, patrolling using paintball or airsoft, rappelling, and drill and ceremony. Transportation is provided.
Military Science Curriculum
To prepare students to become commissioned officers, the ROTC program combines college courses in military science and leadership with summer training. The military science curriculum consists of a two-year Basic Course and a two-year Advanced Course.
The Basic Course (MSC 100’s & 200’s) is normally taken during the freshman and sophomore years yet is open to all Newberry College students. Classes focus on important life skills as well as basic military skills. Topics include time management, values and ethics, goal setting, decision-making, problem solving, military customs and courtesies, land navigation, marksmanship, and patrolling. There is no military obligation for participation in the Basic Course. All ROTC books, uniforms, and equipment will be furnished at no cost to the student. Physical training and Thursday afternoon Lab classes at Presbyterian College are optional for non-contracted Basic Course students; however, contracted Cadets are required to attend.
Some or all of the Basic Course requirements may be waived by the Professor of Military Science for students who have completed Junior ROTC programs or have military experience. Attendance at the Army's Basic Camp may also be used as credit for the Basic Course.
The Advanced Course (MSC 300’s & 400’s) is limited to contracted Cadets or students who have completed (or have received credit for) the Basic Course requirements and are actively seeking to be a contracted Cadet. The Advanced Course provides instruction in advanced leadership strategies, military history, training management, tactics, logistics, and the military justice system. Physical training and Thursday afternoon Lab classes are mandatory for all Advanced Course Cadets. Cadets assume leadership positions on campus in which they plan, lead, and evaluate training for other Cadets. Additionally, Advanced Course Cadets attend the 35-day Advanced Camp at Fort Knox, Kentucky, during the summer between junior and senior years.
The Minor in Military Science Leadership is 20 credit hours in advanced military science and related leadership training. Participation in this minor is contingent upon completion of the ROTC basic courses and acceptance by the Professor of Military Science as a contracted cadet in the Army ROTC Advanced Course.
For additional information, contact the Professor of Military Science at 1-864-833-2820. Please visit the Highlander Battalion ROTC Web Site at www.presby.edu/rotc.
Contracting and Scholarships
Both men and women may enroll in ROTC, contract with the U.S. Army, apply for Army ROTC scholarships, and enter in the commissioning process. In order to become a contracted Cadet, a student must be medically qualified, meet the minimum physical fitness requirements, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00. To qualify for a scholarship, the student must have a cumulative GPA of 2.50.
There are several types of scholarships available. Army ROTC Scholarships include full tuition, fees, and a book allowance. Students contracted into ROTC will receive a monthly living allowance. After all outside aid is applied, students also receive room and board from Newberry College as an incentive for winning an ROTC scholarship. High school seniors applying to Newberry College may compete nationally for a four-year scholarship. Candidates interested in a four-year scholarship must apply prior to December of their senior year of high school. Applicants can receive assistance from the Department of Military Science in submitting applications. Newberry College students may apply for 4, 3.5, 3 and 2 year campus based scholarships. Sophomores may apply to attend the Basic Camp at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where they may win a two-year scholarship. Similar opportunities may also exist for select juniors.
All applicants must meet minimum standards in SAT/ACT scores, GPA, physical fitness, and be medically qualified by the U.S. Army. More information may be obtained by contacting the Department of Military Science.
Simultaneous Membership Program
Yet another way to get a head start in the Army and to pay for education is through the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP). This program allows students to become members of the Army National Guard or the Army Reserve while enrolled in Army ROTC. SMP students are paid by the Guard/ Reserve, plus they receive the ROTC stipend. Full ride Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty Scholarships are also available for those that want to graduate, enter the civilian workforce, and serve their country one weekend a month and two weeks each summer as an officer in the National Guard or Reserves.
ROTC For Veterans
Army ROTC can help veterans make the most of their time invested and the experience they gained in the military. Their military experience could fulfill the necessary requirements for the ROTC Basic Course.
This means that they could enroll directly in the Advanced Course. In addition to any financial assistance received from ROTC, veterans are still qualified to receive any and all VEAP/GI Bill®/Army College Fund benefits to which they are entitled.