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Department of Military Science

Department of Military Science

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Department of Military Science
  • About
  • Student Experience
  • Events
  • Alumni
  • Our Team
  • Donate
  • Contact

< About

  • History
  • Hall of Fame
  • Former Professors of Military Science

< Student Experience

  • Enrollment
  • Curriculum
  • Experience Army ROTC
  • Resources
  • Spartan Battalion RSO

< Events

< Alumni

< Our Team

< Donate

< Contact

Newsletter

Curriculum

Army ROTC > Student Experience >

Curriculum

Academic Plan

Army ROTC offers two distinct programs: the Basic Course and the Advanced Course.

The Basic Course, open to freshmen and sophomores, allows for flexible exploration of leadership and military fundamentals without any commitment. You can learn core leadership principles, basic military skills, and build physical fitness.

The Advanced Course, for juniors and seniors, intensifies training with advanced tactics, field exercises, and a summer camp. This commitment-based program prepares you for a commissioned officer career in the U.S. Army.

Whether you're curious about leadership or ready to commit, Army ROTC has a path for you.

Courses

 
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    Michigan State University Dept. of Military Science (Army ROTC) 229 Dem Hall Road East Lansing, MI 48824

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    MS 110

    The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to duties and responsibilities of the Army officer and non-commissioned officer. Organizational structure of the Army, Army Reserve, and National Guard.

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    MS 120

    This course is designed to give students a working knowledge of the fundamentals of basic Army leadership, the military problem solving process and military briefing and writing skills.

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    MS 210

    This course concentrates on critical dilemmas in combat situations and the ethical decisions Army leaders make to ensure mission success.

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    MS 220

    This course focuses on the application of Army doctrine to field-based leadership decisions. Army values, teamwork, and warrior ethos in relationship to the law of land warfare and philosophy of military service.

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    MS 310

    The course consists of planning and executing military activities in small Army units. Recognizing and analyzing problems in challenging situations.

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    MS 320

    This course will examine the fundamentals of military tactics and battle drills.

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    MS 410

    The course comprises the application of military case studies. Skills and attributes military leaders use to make decisions in combat situations

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    MS 420

    The course covers the application of military case studies to the principles of the law of land warfare, and rules of engagement in the face of international terrorism. Importance of ethics in military leadership.

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    MS 490

    This course does not have a set topic or instructor; it comprises individual research in areas related to military science. MS 490 is offered in Fall and Spring of every year. Department approval is required to enroll.

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    Laboratory

    The Military Science Lab provides hands-on training and applied learning experiences to supplement the corresponding Military Science (MS) course. Students engage in practical exercises that reinforce skills in leadership, military tactics, and decision-making under realistic scenarios.

    • 1 Credit Option: This option involves participation in weekly lab sessions focused on foundational military skills, leadership development, and field training exercises. Physical Training (PT) is optional, allowing students with scheduling conflicts to engage in core lab activities without mandatory PT attendance.
    • 2 Credit Option: This expanded option includes all components of the 1-credit lab with the addition of mandatory Physical Training (PT) sessions, held three times a week. By opting for 2 credits, students gain more immersive, contact-intensive instruction aimed at enhancing physical readiness, resilience, and teamwork.
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