What is JROTC?

ROTC stands for Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. It’s a high school program sponsored by the United States Armed Forces that focuses on leadership, citizenship, and personal development, rather than preparing students for mandatory military service. Students, often called cadets, learn about responsibility, teamwork, and how to become active, informed citizens. They often participate in community service, school activities, and learn basic military customs, drill and ceremony (marching), and uniform wear.

JROTC promotes discipline, respect, and time management skills. Classes cover topics like history, government, health, first aid, and financial literacy. Cadets can also participate in STEM and leadership competitions. PT (physical training) is usually part of the program, and teams like drill team, color guard, and raiders compete locally and nationally.

Key Point:
JROTC does not require students to join the military after graduation, but it can help if they choose to. Students who complete JROTC may even enter the military at a higher initial rank if they enlist.

Required Courses

JROTC 1

Navy JROTC I is the first of a required four course sequence in the Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) high school program. Naval Science instructs students in geography, survival skills, citizenship, leadership, and the value of scholarship in attaining life goals. It promotes a healthy lifestyle including physical fitness, health and first aid, proper diet, stress reduction, and drug awareness. Students will receive an overview of Naval ships and aircraft. 

JROTC 2

Navy JROTC 2 is the second of a required four-course sequence in the Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) high school program. This program focuses on an in-depth, professional study of naval warfare and operations. Instruction includes maritime security, naval warfighting, naval tactics, naval strategy, operational art, planning and conducting joint operations, command and control, civil-military relations, information networking, leadership, ocean and nearshore operations, and related subjects. 

JROTC 3

Navy JROTC 3 is the third required course in a four-course sequence in the Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) high school program. Naval Science 3 broadens the understanding of students in the operative principles of military leadership, the concept and significance of teamwork, the intrinsic value of good order and discipline, and the importance of sea power and national security. Students gain a more in-depth knowledge of Naval ships and aircraft and an introduction to marine navigation and seamanship.   

JROTC 4

Navy JROTC 4 is the fourth required course in a four-course sequence in the Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) high school program. Naval Science 4 focuses on practical leadership techniques and implementation and assists seniors in understanding leadership and improving their leadership skills. Seniors are mentored/guided in their preparation for life after high school, including college preparation, scholarship applications, and the variety of choices available to them.