Military Science
LTC Bryan Peterson, Chairperson
bsu.edu/rotc
The Department of Military Science offers qualified undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to obtain a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Army and to serve with the Regular Army, Army National Guard, or Army Reserves by successfully completing the Reserve Officers Training Corps Program. Those seeking a commission can qualify to earn a minor in military science at Ball State University. Most books and supplies are provided free by the Department of Military Science. Scholarships, federal and state tuition assistance, university incentives, and other programs provide qualified students with outstanding financial assistance packages, covering virtually all costs for up to four years of college.
Military Science offers immersive learning experiences focused on preparing future leaders for the United States Army and managers for the corporate environment. Subjects offered in this program include the study of current military doctrine, Soldier skills, counseling, problem solving, managing resources, military history, and public speaking. During the summer, cadets may choose to learn how to jump out of airplanes (Airborne), conduct Air Assault Operations (Air Assault), travel to foreign countries to study and lead soldiers currently serving in the US Army, and may compete at the national level for scholarships and other incentives.
Scholarships for nursing students are also available. For those nursing students who meet the requirements, a guaranteed seat is available in the baccalaureate nursing program. Military science students majoring in nursing also have the opportunity to participate in the Nurse Summer Training Program (NSTP), a three-week clinical elective. This paid elective is conducted at Army hospitals in the United States and Germany. During NSTP, nursing students receive “hands-on” experience under the direct supervision of preceptors, who are Army nurse officers. NSTP provides nursing students a preview of the real world of nursing and an opportunity to develop skills needed for the nursing profession.