ROTC Courses

About Course Numbers:

Each Carnegie Mellon course number begins with a two-digit prefix that designates the department offering the course (i.e., 76-xxx courses are offered by the Department of English). Although each department maintains its own course numbering practices, typically, the first digit after the prefix indicates the class level: xx-1xx courses are freshmen-level, xx-2xx courses are sophomore level, etc. Depending on the department, xx-6xx courses may be either undergraduate senior-level or graduate-level, and xx-7xx courses and higher are graduate-level. Consult the Schedule of Classes each semester for course offerings and for any necessary pre-requisites or co-requisites.


Aerospace Studies-ROTC Courses

31-101 Foundations of the United States Air Force
Fall: 3 units
AS100 is a survey course designed to introduce cadets to the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. Featured topics include: mission and organization of the Air Force, officership and professionalism, military customs and courtesies, Air Force officer opportunities, and an introduction to communication skills. Leadership Laboratory is mandatory for AFROTC cadets and complements this course by providing cadets with followership experiences.
31-102 Foundations of the United States Air Force
Spring: 3 units
AS100 is a survey course designed to introduce cadets to the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. Featured topics include: mission and organization of the Air Force, officership and professionalism, military customs and courtesies, Air Force officer opportunities, and an introduction to communication skills. Leadership Laboratory is mandatory for AFROTC cadets and complements this course by providing cadets with followership experiences.
31-105 Air Force Leadership Laboratory
All Semesters
The AS100 and AS200 Leadership Laboratory courses (LLABs) include a study of Air Force customs and courtesies, drill and ceremonies, and military commands. The LLAB also includes studying the environment of an Air Force officer and learning about areas of opportunity available to commissioned officers. The AS300 and AS400 LLABs consist of activities classified as leadership and management experiences. They involve the planning and controlling of military activities of the cadet corps, and the preparation and presentation of briefings and other oral and written communications. LLABs also include interviews, guidance, and information, which will increase the understanding, motivation, and performance of other cadets.
31-106 Air Force Leadership Laboratory
All Semesters
The AS100 and AS200 Leadership Laboratory courses (LLABs) include a study of Air Force customs and courtesies, drill and ceremonies, and military commands. The LLAB also includes studying the environment of an Air Force officer and learning about areas of opportunity available to commissioned officers. The AS300 and AS400 LLABs consist of activities classified as leadership and management experiences. They involve the planning and controlling of military activities of the cadet corps, and the preparation and presentation of briefings and other oral and written communications. LLABs also include interviews, guidance, and information, which will increase the understanding, motivation, and performance of other cadets.
31-107 Air Force Leadership Laboratory
All Semesters
The AS100 and AS200 Leadership Laboratory courses (LLABs) include a study of Air Force customs and courtesies, drill and ceremonies, and military commands. The LLAB also includes studying the environment of an Air Force officer and learning about areas of opportunity available to commissioned officers. The AS300 and AS400 LLABs consist of activities classified as leadership and management experiences. They involve the planning and controlling of military activities of the cadet corps, and the preparation and presentation of briefings and other oral and written communications. LLABs also include interviews, guidance, and information, which will increase the understanding, motivation, and performance of other cadets.
31-108 Air Force Leadership Laboratory
All Semesters
The AS100 and AS200 Leadership Laboratory courses (LLABs) include a study of Air Force customs and courtesies, drill and ceremonies, and military commands. The LLAB also includes studying the environment of an Air Force officer and learning about areas of opportunity available to commissioned officers. The AS300 and AS400 LLABs consist of activities classified as leadership and management experiences. They involve the planning and controlling of military activities of the cadet corps, and the preparation and presentation of briefings and other oral and written communications. LLABs also include interviews, guidance, and information, which will increase the understanding, motivation, and performance of other cadets.
31-201 The Evolution of Air and Space Power
Fall: 3 units
The AS200 course designed to examine general aspects of air and space power through a historical perspective. Utilizing this perspective, the course covers a time period from the first balloons and dirigibles to the space-age global positioning systems of the Persian Gulf War. Historical examples are provided to extrapolate the development of Air Force capabilities (competencies), and missions (functions) to demonstrate the evolution of what has become today's USAF air and space power. Furthermore, the course examines several fundamental truths associated with war in the third dimension: e.g. Principles of War and Tenets of Air and Space Power. As a whole, this course provides the cadets with a knowledge level understanding for the general element and employment of air and space power, from an institutional doctrinal and historical perspective. In addition, the students will continue to discuss the importance of the Air Force Core Values with the use of operational examples and historical Air Force leaders and will continue to develop their communication skills. Leadership Laboratory is mandatory for AFROTC cadets and complements this course by providing cadets with followership experiences.
31-202 The Evolution of Air and Space Power
Spring: 3 units
The AS200 course designed to examine general aspects of air and space power through a historical perspective. Utilizing this perspective, the course covers a time period from the first balloons and dirigibles to the space-age global positioning systems of the Persian Gulf War. Historical examples are provided to extrapolate the development of Air Force capabilities (competencies), and missions (functions) to demonstrate the evolution of what has become today's USAF air and space power. Furthermore, the course examines several fundamental truths associated with war in the third dimension: e.g. Principles of War and Tenets of Air and Space Power. As a whole, this course provides the cadets with a knowledge level understanding for the general element and employment of air and space power, from an institutional doctrinal and historical perspective. In addition, the students will continue to discuss the importance of the Air Force Core Values with the use of operational examples and historical Air Force leaders and will continue to develop their communication skills. Leadership Laboratory is mandatory for AFROTC cadets and complements this course by providing cadets with followership experiences.
31-301 Air Force Leadership Studies
Fall: 9 units
AS300 is a study of leadership, management fundamentals, professional knowledge, Air Force personnel and evaluation systems, leadership ethics, and the communication skills required of an Air Force junior officer. Case studies are used to examine Air Force leadership and management situations as a means of demonstrating and exercising practical application of the concepts being studied. A mandatory Leadership Laboratory complements this course by providing advanced leadership experiences in officer-type activities, giving students the opportunity to apply the leadership and management principles of this course.
31-302 Air Force Leadership Studies
Spring: 9 units
AS300 is a study of leadership, management fundamentals, professional knowledge, Air Force personnel and evaluation systems, leadership ethics, and the communication skills required of an Air Force junior officer. Case studies are used to examine Air Force leadership and management situations as a means of demonstrating and exercising practical application of the concepts being studied. A mandatory Leadership Laboratory complements this course by providing advanced leadership experiences in officer-type activities, giving students the opportunity to apply the leadership and management principles of this course.
31-401 National Security Affairs and Preparation for Active Duty
Fall: 9 units
AS400 examines the national security process, regional studies, advanced leadership ethics, and Air Force doctrine. Special topics of interest focus on the military as a profession, officership, military justice, civilian control of the military, preparation for active duty, and current issues affecting military professionalism. Within this structure, continued emphasis is given to refining communication skills. A mandatory Leadership Laboratory complements this course by providing advanced leadership experiences, giving students the opportunity to apply the leadership and management principles of this course.
31-402 National Security Affairs and Preparation for Active Duty
Spring: 9 units
AS400 examines the national security process, regional studies, advanced leadership ethics, and Air Force doctrine. Special topics of interest focus on the military as a profession, officership, military justice, civilian control of the military, preparation for active duty, and current issues affecting military professionalism. Within this structure, continued emphasis is given to refining communication skills. A mandatory Leadership Laboratory complements this course by providing advanced leadership experiences, giving students the opportunity to apply the leadership and management principles of this course.

Military Science-ROTC Courses

30-101 Introduction to Military Leadership
Fall: 5 units
In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of Army leadership, management and basic military skills. The course emphasizes the Army's "Principles of Leadership" and familiarizes the student with rifle marksmanship, orienteering and map reading, rappelling, basic lifesaving skills and the wear of the Army uniform. In addition, students will enhance their time management, decision-making and physical fitness abilities. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided.
30-102 Foundations of Leadership
Spring: 5 units
This course is a continuation of the subjects and skills taught in 30101. In addition to extending the student's abilities in the areas of leadership, orienteering and map reading, lifesaving and other basic military concepts, the course also introduces the student to the employment of military units. Individual topics covered include the Army's emerging technological enhancements, the Army organization and structure and the wartime policies and principles. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided.
30-201 Leadership Dynamics and Application
Fall: 5 units
In this course, students will delve more deply ino the Army's leadership and management techniques, including the application of those techniques in faculty-supervised practical exercises. The course also seeks to enhance the student's abilities in orienteering and map reading, terrain analysis, advanced lifesaving techniques and physical fitness. Students are introduced to the values that define the United States Army as an American institution, and each student continues to enhance his or her physical development under the supervision of the faculty. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided.
30-202 Applications in Leadership and Combat Power
Spring: 5 units
This course continues the study of the topics covered in 30201 and focuses upon practical application of the leadership and management techniques learned in the fall semester. The student develops and applies advanced map reading, terrain analysis, problem-solving and decision-making skills in practical exercises. Additionally, the student is introduced to the Army's formal orders process, used to maneuver and sustain Army forces on the modern battlefield. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided.
30-301 Basic Leader Planning and Combat Operations
Fall: 5 units
This course offers an in-depth analysis and focused practical application of leadership and management techniques. The emphasis in the course is on leader development and the goal is to enhance the student's ability to perform effectively in a stressful decision-making environment. As such, time management, decision-making, advanced military skills, troop-leading procedures and advanced physical training are emphasized. The course requires participation in a demanding physical training program to prepare contracted students for the Army's R.O.T.C. Leader Development and Assessment Course (LDAC). Each student must participate in field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided. Prerequisites: Class is open only to contracted students. Veterans with two or more years of service may enroll with approval.
30-302 Advanced Leader Planning and Combat Operations
Spring: 5 units
This course builds upon the foundation laid in the fall semester with the objective of fully preparing contracted students for participation in the Army's challenging R.O.T.C. Leader Development and Assessment Course (LDAC). The course extends and enhances the student's leadership, management, communication, fitness and basic military skills in preparing the student for commissioning as an officer in the United States Army. Practical exercises are used to reinforce all of the skills that the student has developed over the course of the military science instruction. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided. Prerequisites: Class is open only to contracted students. Veterans with two or more years of service may enroll with approval.
30-401 Progressive Leadership Theory and Applications
Fall: 5 units
This course is the first of two semester courses that serve as a capstone designed to transition the student from cadet to U.S. Army officer. Students are assigned to command and staff positions within the cadet battalion, corresponding to those found in United States Army units. Students perform the duties of the staff or command as assigned and interact with the other cadets as part of a functioning command organization. In addition to studying the operations and organizations of the U.S. Army, students are required to plan and execute the required training and activities in leading the underclasss cadets. A variety of topics of current interest are covered. Guest speakers are commonly invited to discuss their military experiences or their perspectives on military-related topics. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided. Prerequisites: Class is open only to contracted students.
30-402 Transition to the Profession of Arms
Spring: 5 units
This capstone course completes the transition from cadet to Army officer and concludes with the student's commissioning into the United States Army. During the semester, students continue to act in accordance with their assigned staff and command responsibilities and they prepare for their duties as a Lieutenant in the Army. This course covers personal and performance counseling, evaluation of subordinate leaders and team-building skills as well as military justice and discipline. Students bring to bear all of the skills and knowledge that they have accrued over the prior semesters in the Department of Military Science. Each student must participate in physical training, field training exercises and is expected to wear the Army uniform, which will be provided. Prerequisites: Class is open only to contracted students.

Naval Science - ROTC Courses

32-100 Naval Laboratory
Fall and Spring: 3 units
Military drill, physical fitness, and leadership seminars.
32-101 Introduction to Naval Science
Fall: 6 units
A general introduction to the naval profession and to concepts of Seapower. Instruction emphasizes the mission, organization, and warfare components of the Navy and Marine Corps. Included is an overview of officer and enlisted ranks and rates, training and education, and career patterns. The course also covers naval courtesy and customs, military justice, leadership, and nomenclature. This course exposes the student to the professional competencies required to become a naval officer.
32-102 Seapower and Maritime Affairs
Spring: 6 units
This course surveys US naval history from its European origins to the present with emphasis on major developments and the geopolitical forces shaping these developments. Also included is discussion of the theories and writings of naval historian and strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan. The course will finish by covering present day concerns in seapower and maritime affairs including the economic and political issues of merchant marine commerce, the law of the sea, the navy and merchant marine of the former Soviet Union (FSU), and a comparison of US and FSU maritime strategies to include the rise and decline of the Soviet Navy.
32-200 Naval Laboratory
Fall and Spring: 3 units
Military drill, physical fitness, and leadership seminars.
32-201 Leadership & Management
Fall: 9 units
This course is a comprehensive advanced-level study of organizational behavior and management. Topics include a survey of the management functions of planning, organizing, and controlling; an introduction to individual and group behavior in organizations; an extensive study of motivation and leadership. Major behavioral theories are explored in detail. Practical applications are explored by the use of experiential exercises, case studies, and laboratory discussions. Other topics developed include decision-making, communication, responsibility, authority and accountability.
32-212 Navigation
Spring: 9 units
An in-depth study of piloting and an introduction to celestial navigation theory. Students learn piloting skills including the use of charts, visual and electronic aids, and the theory and operation of magnetic and gyro compasses. Students develop practical skills in both piloting and celestial navigation. Other topics include tides, currents effects of wind and weather, plotting, use of navigation instruments, types and characteristics of electronic navigation systems, and the typical day's work in navigation. Also included is a study of the international and inland rules of the nautical road, relative motion, vector analysis theory, and relative motion problems.
32-300 Naval Laboratory
Fall and Spring: 3 units
Military drill, physical fitness, and leadership seminars.
32-310 Evolution Of Warfare
Fall: 9 units
This course is to provide the student with a very basic understanding of the art and concepts of warfare from the beginning of recorded history to the present day. The intent of the curriculum is to familiarize the student with an understanding of the threads of continuity and the interrelations of political, strategic, operational, tactical, and technical levels of war from the past, while bringing into focus the application of these same principles and concepts to the battlefields of today and the future.
32-311 Naval Ship Systems I-Engineering
Fall: 9 units
A detailed study of ship characteristics and types including ship design, hydrodynamic forces, stability, compartmentalization, propulsion, electrical and auxiliary systems, interior communications, ship control, and damage control. Included are basic concepts of the theory and design of steam, gas turbine, internal combustion, and nuclear propulsion. Shipboard safety and firefighting are also discussed.
32-312 Naval Ship Systems II-Weapons
Spring: 9 units
This course outlines the theory and employment of weapons systems. The student explores the processes of detection, evaluation, threat analysis, weapon selection, delivery, guidance and explosives. Fire control systems and major weapon types are discussed, including capabilities and limitations. The physical aspects of radar and underwater sound are described in detail. The facets of command, control, and communications are explored as a means of weapons system integration.
32-400 Naval Laboratory
Fall and Spring: 3 units
Military drill, physical fitness, and leadership seminars.
32-402 Leadership and Ethics
Spring: 9 units
The study of naval junior officer responsibilities. The course exposes the student to a study of ethics, decision making and responsibility as well as counseling methods, military justice administration, naval human resources management, directives and correspondence, naval personnel administration, material management and maintenance and supply systems. This capstone course in the NROTC curriculum builds on and integrates the professional competencies developed in prior course work and professional training.
32-410 Amphibious Warfare/Operations & The Fundamentals of Maneuver Warfare
Fall: 9 units
A historical survey of the development of amphibious doctrine and the conduct of amphibious operations. Emphasis is placed on the evolution of amphibious warfare in the twentieth century, especially during World War II. Focus is applied to four main themes: political/strategic situation, sea-to-land transitions, tactics ashore, and development of amphibious technology. Present day potential and limitations on amphibious operations, including the rapid deployment force concept, are explored.
32-411 Naval Operations and Seamanship
Fall: 9 units
Designed as an introduction to naval operations and shipboard evolutions, vessel behavior and characteristics in maneuvering, applied aspects of ship handling, and afloat communications. This course builds upon the information presented in Navigation 32-212, Engineering 32-311, and Weapons Systems 32-312. An understanding of the nautical rules of the road, relative motion and vector analysis are utilized in discussion regarding the conduct of naval operation to include formation tactics and ship employment. The student will also be introduced to the various components of naval warfare and their role in sea control and power projection missions within naval and joint operations.
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