Air Force JROTC Academy of Aerospace Science & Leadership
The AFJROTC Curriculum is offered on a 4-year rotational schedule. First Year, Second Year, Third Year, and Fourth Year Cadets are enrolled in the same course. The courses are designed to work as a 4 year rolling course load (ex. Freshman may start on year 3, then 4, then 1, then 2) Each year the curriculum in the AFJROTC includes an Aerospace Science (AS) component, a Leadership Education (LE) component, and a Wellness/PT component that rotates throughout the four year cycle.
Within the Leadership Education (LE) portion of the program is a Drill and Ceremonies component. Citizenship, leadership, character and community service are the core tenets of the program. Course work includes aerospace science, military history, customs and courtesies, drill and ceremonies and building upon student’s skills such as leadership, self-confidence and discipline – qualities that are necessary to thrive in any career.
AFJROTC is not a military recruitment program, and students are in no way obligated to join the military upon graduation. High school students who successfully complete at least three years in the program may be able to enter the military at a higher pay grade than most enlistees. College bound students can compete for an Air Force Academy nomination or an Air Force ROTC scholarship through their Air Force Junior ROTC unit.
Following is a description of the various Aerospace Science (AS), Leadership Education (LE), and Wellness/PT components that students will be exposed to throughout their four years in the AFROTC program.
AS-100: Aerospace Science Components- A Journey into Aviation History
Credit: 5
This is an aviation history course focusing on the development of flight throughout the centuries. It starts with ancient civilizations, then progresses through time to modern day. The emphasis is on civilian and military contributions to aviation; the development, modernization, and transformation of the Air Force; and a brief astronomical and space exploration history. It is interspersed with concise overviews of the principles of flight to include basic aeronautics, aircraft motion and control, flight power, and rockets. Throughout the course, there are readings, videos, hands-on activities, and in-text and student workbook exercises to guide in the reinforcement of the materials.
AS-200: The Science of Flight- A Gateway to New Horizons
Credit: 5
This is an introductory course that focuses on how airplanes fly, how weather conditions affect flight, flight and the human body, and flight navigation. The course is designed to complement materials taught in math, physics, and other science-related courses and is aligned with the National Science Education Standards, the Math Standards and Expectations, and ISTE National Educational Technology Standards for Students.
AS-220: Cultural Studies: An Introduction to Global Awareness
Credit: 5
This is a customized course about the world’s cultures. The course is specifically created for the US Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force Junior ROTC programs. It introduces students to the world’s cultures through the study of world affairs, regional studies, and cultural awareness. The course delves into history, geography, religions, languages, culture, political systems, economics, social issues, environmental concerns, and human rights. It looks at major events and significant figures that have shaped each region. Throughout the course, there are readings, video segments, hands-on activities, other optional activities, technology enrichment, and assessments to guide in the reinforcement of the materials.
AS-300: Exploring Space: The High Frontier
Credit: 5
This is a science course that includes the latest information available in space science and space exploration. The course begins with the study of the space environment from the earliest days of interest in astronomy and early ideas of the heavens, through the Renaissance, and on into modern astronomy. It provides an in-depth study of the earth, sun, stars, moon, and solar system, including the terrestrial and the outer planets. It discusses issues critical to travel in the upper atmosphere such as orbits and trajectories, unmanned satellites, and space probes. It investigates the importance of entering space and discusses manned and unmanned space flights, focusing on concepts surrounding spaceflight, space vehicles, launch systems, and space missions. The section on manned spaceflight focuses on the Space Shuttle, space stations and beyond, covering milestones in the endeavor to land on the Moon and to safely orbit humans and crafts for temporary and prolonged periods. The course covers the human aspect of spaceflight, focusing on the human experience in space. It also examines the latest advances in space technology, including robotics in space, the Mars Rover, and commercial uses of space.
AS-400: Management of the Cadet Corps
Credit: 5
The cadets should manage the entire corps during their fourth year in the Air Force Junior ROTC program. This hands-on experience affords cadets the opportunity to put theories of previous leadership courses into practice. Planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, controlling, and decision-making will be done by cadets. They will put into practice their communication, decision-making, personal- interaction, managerial, and organizational skills. Instructors should keep in mind that since there is no textbook for this course, the course syllabus will be structured so that cadets achieve course objectives by completing core management activities.
LEADERSHIP EDUCATION COMPONENTS (LE)
LE-100: Traditions, Wellness and Foundations of Citizenship
Credit: 5
This course introduces cadets to the history, organization, mission, traditions, goals, and objectives of JROTC for all services. Cadets are required to teach, learn and perform 30 basic Air Force Drill commands throughout the school year. A safe and open space is provided to allow the cadets proper space to practice drill commands and procedures. Lessons will cover how to be emotionally, mentally, and physically healthy. Avoiding and preventing violence in today’s society will also be covered. How to recognize types of bullying and how to advocate for prevention of this type of behavior. It will cover healthy living, physical fitness, and how to make safe, drug-free, and responsible decisions. This course will also examine the negative effects of air and water pollution, and how to help keep the environment safe. Cadets will be introduced to civics and our national government, including a historical understanding of the American flag and other important national symbols. The final chapter will also cover how the US Constitution protects our rights and freedoms as American citizens.
LE-200: Communication, Awareness and Leadership
Credit: 5
This course stresses communications skills and cadet corps activities. Much information is provided on communicating effectively, understanding groups and teams, preparing for leadership, solving conflicts and problems, and personal development. Written reports and speeches complement the academic materials. Cadet corps activities include holding positions of greater responsibility in the planning and execution of corps projects.
LE-300: Life Skills & Career Opportunities
Credit: 5
This course is designed to prepare students for life after high school in the high-tech, globally oriented, and diverse workplace of the 21st century. Students will learn how to become a more confident financial planner and to save, invest, and spend money wisely, as well as how to avoid the credit trap. They will learn about real-life issues such as understanding contracts, leases, warranties, legal notices, personal bills, practical and money-saving strategies for grocery shopping, apartment selection, and life with roommates. The Holland Interest Inventory and other self-assessments will help them to reveal their attitudes, aptitudes, and personal skills. This self-understanding will allow them to explore career paths and understand the requirements that they will need to be successful at work and in life.
LE-400: Principles of Management
Credit: 5
This course provides exposure to the fundamentals of management. The text contains many leadership topics that will benefit students as well as provide them with some of the necessary skills needed to put into practice what they have learned during their time in JROTC. We are confident this course, coupled with what the cadets have already learned during their time in AFJROTC, will equip them with the qualities needed to serve in leadership positions in the corps. Throughout the text are many ethical dilemmas, case studies, and role play activities built into the lessons. These activities are based on real-life experiences and will give students the opportunity to practice what they learn by getting involved in discussions and expressing their opinions.
DRILL & CEREMONIES
Credit: 5
This course provides an in-depth introduction to drill and ceremonies, concentrates on the elements of military drill, and describes individual and group precision movements, procedures for saluting, drill, ceremonies, reviews, parades, and development of the command voice. Students are provided detailed instruction on ceremonial performances and protocol for civilian and military events and have the opportunity to personally learn drill.
WELLNESS/PHYSICAL TRAINING (PT) COMPONENT
Credit: 5
CHWP: Cadet Health and Wellness Program
The Wellness Program (known as Physical Training, or PT) is an official and integral part of the Air Force Junior ROTC program. The objective of the Wellness/PT Program is to motivate cadets to lead healthy, active lifestyles beyond program requirements and into their adult lives. Students are required to take the Presidential Fitness Test at the beginning and end of each school year.