Department Of Aerospace Studies
Department Office: Hearst Gymnasium, (510) 642-3572
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The Department of Aerospace Studies offers students in virtually all academic areas the opportunity to qualify for a commission in the United States Air Force while simultaneously completing university graduate and undergraduate degree requirements. Eligible students must have at least two full academic years remaining in their bachelor's or graduate degree program.
Students interested in the general military course are eligible to compete for scholarships which cover the costs of tuition, books, and most fees; also, a $250-$400 monthly living allowance is paid to each student on the college scholarship. Freshmen and sophomores competing for scholarships should contact the department.
Students not taking the general military course may still be eligible for the two-year professional officer course. This upper division program is open to students who have at least two full years of study remaining in their academic program. Selection for the professional officer course is based on such factors as aptitude, interest, college grades, and performance at a five-week field training camp. Students selected for the professional officer course are provided uniforms, textbooks, and a $350 or $400-per-month allowance while they are active in the program. Normally, upper division standing is required to enter the two-year program, but exceptions can be made for lower division students who can complete degree requirements in two years. It is also possible to take all or part of the professional officer course as a graduate student.
Both the two-year and the four-year AFROTC programs emphasize student participation and involvement. Classes are conducted as seminars and call for active student discussion. In addition, there is a weekly two-hour leadership laboratory that is mandatory for all AFROTC cadets. In this laboratory, students become involved in the management of their own cadet organization. Students also participate in projects, visits to Air Force bases, and orientation flights.
Completion of the program to earn an Air Force commission requires enrollment during each semester in a specified course in Aerospace Studies or Military Affairs. The normal sequence for the four-year program is as follows: AS 1, AS 24, AS 2A, AS 2B, AS 135A, AS 135B, MA 145A, MA 145B. Students enrolled in the two-year program need only take the upper division courses. All courses count for credit.
Aerospace Studies courses are open to all University students. Students from other institutions may participate in the AFROTC program through cross-enrollment arrangements or through University Extension.
For further information on enrollment requirements and procedures, contact the department staff at (510) 642-3572.