MILITARY COLLEGES
Where Military Training Takes On Special Significance
In the United States, a Senior Military College (SMC) is one of six schools that offer military Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs and are specifically recognized under 10 USC 2111(a). Military schools are places where there are a Corps of Cadets and military type of experience. Cadets have formation, physical training and wear their uniforms. The six SMCs are:
- North Georgia College and State University; Dahlonega, Georgia
- Norwich University; Northfield, Vermont
- Texas A&M University; College Station, Texas
- The Citadel; Charleston, South Carolina
- Virginia Military Institute; Lexington, Virginia
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; Blacksburg, Virginia
In the United States, a Military Junior College (MJC) is a military-style junior college that allows cadets to become commissioned Officers in one of the Reserve Components in two years, instead of the usual four, through the Early Commissioning Program. The students must still go on to complete a bachelor's degree before serving as regular Officers on Active Duty. Begun in 1966, the Early Commissioning Program (ECP) plays a major role in officer production. In some years, ECP Officers have accounted for over 60 percent of all ROTC Second Lieutenants in the United States Army. The program is a major financial incentive for students who receive their commissions early and serve as Officers while still attending college and gaining service time for promotions and retirement. In 1984, the California National Guard received 95 percent (74 of 78) of its ROTC lieutenants from the ECP program. The Army Reserve has had similar experiences. With the United States' involvement in continuing military action in Iraq and Afghanistan, the number of ECP slots is again being increased. The five MJCs are:
- Wentworth Military Academy, Lexington, Missouri
- Valley Forge Military Academy, Wayne, Pennsylvania
- Marion Military Institute, Marion, Alabama
- New Mexico Military Institute, Roswell, New Mexico
- Georgia Military College, Milledgeville, Georgia
