AFROTC Overview

The Air Force ROTC program is divided into two courses of study (the General Military Course, and the Professional Officer Course) and a Field Training experience. The full program will take more than 480 hours over four years of college (including one summer for Field Training). Leadership development is emphasized throughout the program. Additional, off site training opportunities are also available.

The General Military course of study is for first-year and sophomore students. The Professional Officer course of study is for juniors and seniors.

Note – It is possible to complete a three-year program if you did not begin as a first-year student. Contact our Recruiting Officer for more information at (919) 962-2074 or afrotc@unc.edu

General Military Course (GMC)

The first section of Air Force ROTC, the General Military Course, is a two-year program offered to first-year students and sophomores who meet the minimum requirements. We call freshmen AS100s and sophomores AS200s and are collectively referred to as the GMC. It consists of one hour of classroom work, two hours of physical training, and two hours of Leadership Laboratory each week. The General Military Course is designed to improve communication skills and provide a window into military life. It’s an opportunity for students to try out the program with no obligation (for those not on an ROTC scholarship).

Field Training

During the summer after your sophomore year, you will participate in a 17-day field training experience. It is required for all cadets who wish to continue into the Professional Officer Course. This rigorous program involves physical conditioning, weapons training, drill and ceremonies, Air Force careers exposure, and survival training. Field training offers you the opportunity to develop your skills as both a leader and team member.

Professional Officer Course (POC)

After completing Field Training, cadets will return in the Professional Officer Course. We call juniors AS300s and seniors AS400s and collectively are referred to as the POC. It consists of three hours of classroom work, two hours of physical training, and two hours of Leadership Laboratory each week. The POC are in charge of the cadet wing and serve in leadership positions from flight commander all the way to wing commander. POC plan and execute each Leadership Laboratory and physical training session. The Professional Officer Course is designed to hone cadets’ leadership style, improve their understanding of warfare, and prepare them for active duty.