Housed in the College of General Studies and offered by the Army ROTC Program at the University of Pittsburgh, this 19-credit minor gives undergraduate students a unique opportunity to explore military leadership, decision-making, and national defense.
The program helps students build real-world skills that support both professional and personal growth. It pairs well with majors like political science, history, criminal justice, public service, business, and other fields that involve leadership, planning, and teamwork. This minor is also a great option for students interested in careers with government agencies such as the Department of Defense, Homeland Security, or the State Department, as well as with private companies that work with the military.
Eligibility
Students must be currently enrolled in the Army ROTC Program and working toward commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army to pursue this minor.
What You’ll Learn
This minor covers key topics in Military Science, Leadership, and Army Operations. You’ll begin by learning about:
- The structure and roles of the U.S. Army
- Army ranks and responsibilities
- Basic leadership and teamwork skills
As you continue, you’ll explore more advanced topics like:
- Military decision-making and tactical planning
- Problem-solving and mission execution
- Cultural awareness and leading diverse teams
- How military operations have shaped U.S. and global history
Hands-On Leadership Experience
In your third and fourth years, you’ll have the chance to take on leadership roles in simulated Army units, such as Platoons, Companies, or Battalions. These roles help you develop skills in:
- Planning and organizing missions
- Communicating clearly and effectively
- Leading teams and managing operations
- Writing and interpreting Army orders using the Army Operations Process
You’ll also take part in physical fitness training and weekend leadership labs. These are required for Army ROTC students who plan to commission as Second Lieutenants with the US Army following their graduation.
Students will take part in a “Staff Ride” which will serve as an applied field experience. During this staff ride, students will tour a battlefield, learn about the tactics, leaders, consequences and outcomes from the battle.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to and stay in the Military Science and Leadership Minor, students must:
- Be enrolled in the Army ROTC Program by the beginning of their junior year.
- Meet all Army ROTC contractual requirements by the beginning of their junior year.
- Maintain a minimum semester GPA of 2.00.
- Earn a passing grade in each course required for the minor.
Graduation Requirements
Students must officially declare their minor with their Military Science Adviser prior to applying for graduation in order for the minor to be noted on their official transcript.
Coursework
In order to complete the minor, you will take the courses as outlined below.
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Core Courses: (16 credits)
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All eight courses are required.
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Electives: (3 credits)
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You must select one of the courses below:
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Support and Guidance
The Military Studies Minor is led by a dedicated team here to help you succeed:
- All Military Science classes will be taught by Army ROTC instructors selected from diverse career fields and assigned to instructor positions through official military orders. Instructors are experienced Commissioned Officers and senior Non-Commissioned Officers from the Army Active Duty, Army Reserve, Army National Guard components.
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The Program Coordinator, who will serve as your academic advisor and guide you through the minor.
Together, they’ll support you every step of the way—both in and out of the classroom. Our staff is dedicated to help you succeed in either military service or civilian life.
Learn more about the Three Rivers Battalion | Division of Student Affairs.
Contact Information
Program Coordinator
Academic Minor Advisor
Office Location: Bellefield Hall, Room 407