The Department of Military Science provides a professional training and development program leading to a commission as an officer in the United States Army, with subsequent service in the Regular Army, the Army Reserve or the National Guard. Military science courses may count as electives in all LAS degree programs. Military science courses provide instruction in officer development and the military arts. Laboratories provide an opportunity for the practical application of academic concepts. Laboratories conducted both on and off campus offer practical application of military skills.
Enrollment is on a voluntary basis and is open to qualified full-time students.
The majority of Army ROTC cadets attend USC on Army scholarships. All cadets, enrolled and scholarship, receive uniforms and military science textbooks. The four-year military science curriculum is designed to be part of the student's four undergraduate years. During the freshman and sophomore years, students receive introductory instruction in the theory of warfare, military history, military justice and basic military skills. Cadets participate during their junior and senior years in a professional development track with instruction in leadership, management and advanced military skills.