BECOMING AN ARMY OFFICER
MILITARY OFFICER PROGRAMS IN THE U.S. ARMY
There are four paths to becoming an Army Officer. Choose the one that best suits your goals.
Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) allows students to enroll in elective leadership and military courses at colleges and universities. At graduation, ROTC cadets are commissioned as Second Lieutenants.
Learn about Army ROTC
Direct commission provides individuals who possess leadership, skills, and experience the opportunity to become an Army Officer. In addition to individuals from professional fields like law, medicine and religion, the Army has expanded Direct Commission to look for skilled individuals in a multitude of other fields. At completion of an Officer training program, they are commissioned at a rank determined by their experience and career branch.
Learn about Direct Commission
Officer Candidate School allows college graduates to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be commissioned as Army Officers. Through classroom instruction and training exercises, candidates learn to become leaders.
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United States Military Academy
West Point is one of the country’s oldest colleges. Cadets are immersed in military customs and traditions while working toward a college degree. At graduation, cadets are commissioned as Army Second Lieutenants.
Learn about U.S. Military Academy at West Point
