Military Science Department

LTC Richard Plette, Chairperson
605 E. Clark Street
(605) 677-6049
rotc@usd.edu

FACULTY:

Professor:

LTC Richard Plette, Ordnance

Assistant Professor:

LTC Damian Donahoe, Infantry

Senior Military Instructor:

MSG Robert O’Donnell, Field Artillery

Military Instructor:

MSG Gregory Kerkman, Special Forces

MINOR: MILITARY SCIENCE

Military Science and the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) are on USD’s campus to motivate and train students to become leaders in the United States Army (or any profession). Qualified students earn federal commissions while they earn their Bachelor degree by taking military science courses, completing a five-week summer leadership course and maintaining established standards in academics, physical fitness and citizenship. After graduation and commissioning, new Second Lieutenants serve in a variety of positions with Army National Guard and Army Reserve units throughout the region, or they compete for selection to active duty assignment. Two, three and four-year scholarships that pay full tuition and fees are available to qualified students. Initial Military Science courses are tuition and obligation free. These 100 level and 200 level Military Science courses are open to any student on campus. Courses include instruction on rappelling, first aid, survival training, leadership development, self-defense, problem solving and time management. Military Science courses at the 300 and 400 level are limited to enrollment by contracted ROTC cadets only.

SCHOLARSHIPS

National and Campus-based Army ROTC Scholarships

Available to H.S. Seniors, College First-year students and Sophomores.
Eligibility criteria: U.S. citizen; minimum GPA 2.50; must meet age and medical qualifications.
Benefits: Covers full cost of tuition and fees, book allowance, monthly stipend.

Military Endowments:

Available to College First-year students and Sophomores
Eligibility criteria: Must be enrolled in Army ROTC
Benefits: Provides various cash awards.