Curriculum & Program
AFROTC offers a four-year program that not only equips cadets with the necessary skills and knowledge for military service but also fosters leadership qualities, critical thinking abilities, and a deep sense of duty and honor.
General Military Course (GMC)
The first two years of AFROTC are classified as the General Military Course (GMC). The purpose of the GMC is to introduce cadets to the Air Force and lay the groundwork for their development as future leaders. Both freshman and sophomore cadets are part of the GMC, with distinct roles and objectives:
- Initial Military Training (IMT): Freshman cadets learn the basics of being an AFROTC cadet. They familiarize themselves with Air Force customs and courtesies, drill and ceremony, and core values.
- Field Training Preparation (FTP): Sophomore cadets undergo more focused training aimed at preparing them for Field Training, an intense, two-week program typically attended between sophomore and junior year.
Field Training
Field Training is a critical milestone in the AFROTC program and serves as a pivotal experience for cadets. Held between the sophomore and junior years at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL, Field Training immerses cadets in real-world Air Force scenarios, challenging them both mentally and physically. Cadets must successfully complete Field Training to commission through AFROTC.
Professional Officer Course (POC)
By junior year, cadets have passed the major milestone of Field Training and are contracted. Once contracted, cadets incur a minimum service commitment of 4 years on Active Duty. Juniors and seniors are classified as Professional Officer Course (POC) cadets and take on leadership roles within the cadet wing. The junior and senior year curriculum is focused on refining leadership skills and preparing cadets for their future roles as officers.
- Leadership Roles: POC cadets have the opportunity to lead and mentor younger cadets, either through direct command positions or in support roles on the cadet staff.
- Career Field Selection: Throughout junior year, cadets apply for their desired career fields within the Air Force or Space Force. Final decisions are released in the following months, determining each cadet's career path upon commissioning.
Commissioning
Upon successful completion of the program, cadets take the oath of office and are sworn in as Second Lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force.