Auburn University NROTC, Alabama

History of Auburn University in Alabama

Auburn University, located in Alabama, established itself in 1856 as the East Alabama Male College. It started as a private liberal arts institution connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. In 1872, thanks to the Morrill Act, it transformed into the state’s inaugural land-grant university and took on the name the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama.

By 1892, Auburn University broke new ground as Alabama’s first four-year coeducational school. Seven years later, in 1899, it underwent a name change, becoming known as the Alabama Polytechnic Institute. And finally, in 1960, it evolved into Auburn University, a title reflecting its broad array of academic programs and substantial curriculum.

See Also: ROTC vs. Military Academy: Which Path Is the Best

Auburn University has been a pivotal contributor to the advancement of Alabama and the entire region. The College of Agriculture at the university has played a crucial role in enhancing the state’s agricultural economy.

Over the years, Auburn’s engineering program has earned a reputation as one of the oldest and most respected in the nation. Notably, the university’s veterinary medicine program ranks among the finest in the country, and Auburn’s business school is renowned for its robust programs in accounting, finance, and marketing.

Key Milestones of the School

Beyond its academic achievements, Auburn University is equally celebrated for its dynamic campus life. The institution boasts a rich tradition of athletics, with its football team achieving remarkable success on the national stage. Auburn is also home to many student organizations and clubs, spanning fraternities and sororities, academic clubs, and service organizations.

Auburn University stands as a significant economic catalyst for the state of Alabama, employing a workforce of over 10,000 individuals and generating a staggering economic impact of over $6 billion for the state annually. Moreover, Auburn doubles as a prominent tourist magnet, drawing visitors from across the globe to its campus and sports events.

Auburn University takes pride in its status as an integral part of the Alabama community and as a leading public research university. The institution is committed to providing students with a top-notch education, equipping them for prosperous careers and lives.

Below is a brief timeline highlighting key milestones in Auburn University’s history:

• 1856: The Alabama Legislature chartered the East Alabama Male College.
• 1859: The East Alabama Male College commenced its educational journey.
• 1872: The East Alabama Male College transformed into the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama, marking the state’s inaugural land-grant university.
• 1892: The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama became Alabama’s first four-year coeducational institution.
• 1899: The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Alabama adopted the name Alabama Polytechnic Institute.
• 1960: Alabama Polytechnic Institute rebranded as Auburn University.
• 1964: Auburn University achieved full desegregation.
• 1975: Auburn University inaugurated its veterinary medicine school.
• 1985: Auburn University unveiled its business school.
• 2009: Auburn University launched its College of Engineering.

Auburn University remains a thriving institution, bearing a rich historical legacy and an unwavering dedication to furnishing its students with the utmost quality education, ensuring their preparedness for triumph in their careers and lives.

History of Auburn University NROTC, Alabama

In 1946, Auburn University set up the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) program. It stands as one of the nation’s most time-honored NROTC units. Over the years, this program has yielded a remarkable roster of officers who have served their country with unparalleled distinction. Among these distinguished individuals is Admiral Michael S. Rogers, an alumnus of Auburn NROTC who graduated in 1981. He achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first member of the Information Warfare Community to attain the rank of Vice Admiral, and he also held the notable distinction of being the first restricted line officer to assume command of a numbered fleet.

Academic Program

At Auburn University, NROTC students actively engage in a baccalaureate degree program open to any major the university provides. Alongside their academic studies, NROTC students embark on a parallel journey, compelled to participate in Naval Science courses. These courses encompass various subjects, including naval history and strategy, leadership, and seamanship.

Military Program

Auburn University’s NROTC military program has a clear mission: to equip students for future careers as commissioned officers in the United States Navy or Marine Corps. Within this program, NROTC students are actively involved in an array of activities. This includes physical fitness training, drill and ceremony, and intensive leadership training. Additionally, they enjoy the valuable opportunity to partake in summer training programs alongside the Navy and Marine Corps.

Highlights of the Auburn University NROTC, Alabama

• Auburn University’s NROTC unit stands as one of the nation’s most time-honored and esteemed NROTC units.
• The legacy of Auburn NROTC includes a remarkable lineage of officers who have rendered distinguished service to their nation.
• Students in Auburn NROTC benefit from an extensive array of academic programs and majors.
• Auburn NROTC provides an intensive military program purposefully designed to equip students for future careers as commissioned officers in the United States Navy or Marine Corps.

Benefits of Participating in the Auburn University NROTC Program

• NROTC students are entitled to a comprehensive package, including a full tuition scholarship and a monthly stipend.
• Upon graduation, NROTC students are assured of securing a commission in the United States Navy or Marine Corps.
• NROTC students find themselves presented with various opportunities, ranging from diverse leadership training programs to engaging summer training programs with the Navy and Marine Corps.
• During their NROTC journey, students amass invaluable skills and experience, assets that will prove beneficial in their careers, regardless of whether they ultimately choose to pursue a military path.If you wish to delve deeper into the Auburn University NROTC program, I invite you to explore the program’s website at https://www.auburn.edu/nrotc/.

Tuition Cost

NROTC students at Auburn University benefit from a comprehensive financial package generously offered by the Navy. This package encompasses a full tuition scholarship, which extends to cover mandatory school fees, as well as a monthly stipend to support living expenses.

For those commencing their NROTC journey as freshmen, the monthly stipend stands at $250. Sophomores receive $300 per month, juniors receive $350 per month, and seniors receive $400 per month.

How to Join Auburn University NROTC in Alabama

Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of being accepted into the Auburn University NROTC program:

• Get good grades in high school and college.
• Maintain a high level of physical fitness.
• Participate in extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and teamwork.
• Take college preparatory courses, such as math, science, and English.
• Visit the Auburn University NROTC unit and talk to the staff and cadets.

Notable Alumni

The Auburn University NROTC program has produced many notable alumni who have served their country with great distinction. Here are just a few examples:

• Admiral Michael S. Rogers: First member of the Information Warfare Community to achieve the rank of Vice Admiral and the first restricted line officer to hold command of a numbered fleet.
• General Holland “Howlin’ Mad” Smith, USMC: Known as the Father of Modern U.S. Amphibious Warfare.
• General F. A. “Baldy” Gray, USMC: Former Commandant of the Marine Corps.
• Rear Admiral Richard G. Smith: Former Director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.
• Rear Admiral David A. Dunaway: Former Commander of Carrier Strike Group 3.
• Captain John B. Mason: Former Commanding Officer of the USS Cole.
• Captain Michael D. “Mikey” Parker: Former Commanding Officer of the USS John C. Stennis.
• Lieutenant Commander Mark A. “Oz” Myers: Former SEAL Team Six operator who killed Osama bin Laden.

These are just a few examples of the many distinguished alumni of the Auburn University NROTC program. Auburn NROTC alumni have served in all military branches and held leadership positions at all levels. They are a testament to the Auburn NROTC program’s quality and its alumni’s dedication.

Summary

In conclusion, Auburn University and its NROTC program exemplify excellence and opportunity. With a rich history and a commitment to providing students with a top-tier education, Auburn has nurtured a legacy of leaders who have served their country with honor. The NROTC program, one of the nation’s oldest and most respected, offers robust academic programs and provides generous financial support to its students.

Challenges and rewards mark the journey to becoming an NROTC student at Auburn. It begins with seeking admission to Auburn University, followed by a competitive NROTC application process. For those who meet the criteria, scholarships are available, providing financial aid and monthly stipends.

Auburn NROTC’s holistic approach ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also physically and mentally fit for their future roles as commissioned officers in the United States Navy or Marine Corps. The program offers a wide range of leadership training opportunities, equipping students with valuable skills for their careers, whether in the military or other fields.

To those eager to explore the NROTC program at Auburn, the NROTC website serves as a gateway to valuable information and application details. Whether it’s academic excellence, leadership development, or financial support, Auburn University and its NROTC program continue to shape the future of students and the nation.

F.A.Q at NROTC Program at Auburn University

Can I join the NROTC program even if I have no prior military experience?

Yes, you can join the NROTC program without any prior military experience. The program is designed to develop future officers from diverse backgrounds, and many successful NROTC students start with no initial military training.

Does the scholarship cover room and board expenses?

No, the scholarship does not cover room and board expenses. You are responsible for protecting those costs. If you find room and board payments to be a financial hardship, it’s advisable to explore financial aid programs to assist with these expenses.

If I missed the deadline for the National four-year scholarship application, is there any way that I can still obtain an NROTC scholarship?

Suppose you missed the deadline for the National four-year scholarship application. In that case, you can still pursue an NROTC scholarship by entering the NROTC College Program as a non-scholarship student during your freshman year. You can then apply for a three-year scholarship at the end of your freshman year.

How do I go about applying for an NROTC scholarship?

To apply for an NROTC scholarship, you should begin the process before your high school senior year ends. The application typically opens on April 1st at the conclusion of your junior year. The Navy Recruiting Command and Headquarters Marine Corps accept and process all NROTC scholarship applications. You can initiate the application process on their respective websites. Scholarship selection is based on various factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and leadership potential.

Can I go from the NROTC program directly into medical school, and then serve my obligated time as a Navy doctor?

The NROTC program is not designed to educate and produce medical doctors. While there is a possibility of placing a limited number of Midshipmen into medical school each year, it’s a competitive process. If admitted to medical school, you’ll attend immediately following graduation and begin serving your obligation after completing your medical residency.

How much of my time at school will be tied up in NROTC activities?

As an NROTC student, you can expect to dedicate a minimum of six hours a week to NROTC activities. This includes attending Naval Science courses, labs, and participating in required squad activities. These activities are an integral part of your NROTC commitment, but they do not overwhelm your overall college experience.

How does the Marine training differ from Navy training?

In most respects, Marine training is similar to Navy training within the NROTC program. However, Marine Option students have some differences in their curriculum. They are not required to take calculus and physics courses that Navy Option students must complete. Additionally, Marine Option students have unique Naval Science courses in their junior and senior years, and they undergo Officer Candidate School (OCS) training during the summer after their junior year.

What is my commitment if I decide to leave the NROTC program?

If you decide to leave the NROTC program after starting your sophomore year, and you’ve incurred an obligation for active duty, your commitment varies based on your student category. Scholarship students are obligated to a minimum of five years of active duty after graduation, while College Program (non-scholarship) students have a three-year active duty obligation. However, if a medical issue arises that prevents commissioning, the obligation may be waived.

What is my active duty obligation after graduation?

Your active duty obligation after graduation depends on your student category. Scholarship students are typically obligated to a minimum of five years of active duty, and the duration may vary based on their chosen designator. College Program (non-scholarship) students, on the other hand, are generally obligated to three years of active duty following graduation.

Can I be guaranteed flight school after graduation?

The Navy does not provide a guarantee of flight school upon graduation. However, a strong academic performance and high scores on the aviation aptitude exam (ASTB) significantly increase your chances of being selected for aviation training. If you’re interested in the Marine Corps, they do offer flight guarantees, which can be granted up to 90 days before graduation.

What is a designator?

In the context of the NROTC program, a designator refers to an officer’s occupation or career path in the Navy or Marine Corps. NROTC students have a range of designator choices, including Naval Aviator, Naval Flight Officer, Surface Warfare Officer, Submarine Officer, and many more.

Does that mean there is no obligation for incoming freshmen when they join the program?

That’s correct. Incoming freshmen, whether scholarship or College Program students, do not have an immediate obligation upon joining the NROTC program. Scholarship students have one year, and College Program students have two years to experience the program and decide whether to continue and incur the obligation.

How are scholarship students’ transportation expenses covered?

The Navy covers scholarship students’ transportation expenses from their homes to their school and from home to their summer cruise training. This support helps ease the financial burden of attending NROTC activities and training.

How are tuition payments and book purchases handled for scholarship students?

Tuition payments are directly handled by the NROTC unit, and the Navy pays your tuition and mandatory school fees directly to the university. As for books, scholarship students receive a basic book stipend of $375, independent of the actual amount they spend on books.

What if I have additional questions?

Most additional questions can be answered by visiting the Naval Service Training Command FAQ website.