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Military Science

The United States Armed Forces sponsors 6-12 grade level Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) and the Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) programs in schools across the United States and on United States military bases across the world. These programs were created as part of the National Defense Act of 1916 and later expanded under the 1964 ROTC Vitalization Act.

The JROTC and NNDCC programs instill the values of citizenship, service to the United States, personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment in attending students. Students (cadets) who decide to pursue a military career will have the ability to rank higher after completing three years in a program.

These programs focus on cadets’ cognitive, physical, behavioral, social and emotional dimensions, as well as emphasizing military, career and college preparedness. Program curriculum goals include:

  • Developing citizenship and patriotism.
  • Developing self-reliance and responsiveness to all authority.
  • Improving the ability to communicate well both orally and in writing.
  • Developing an appreciation of the importance of physical fitness.
  • Increasing a respect for the role of the U.S. Armed Forces in support of national objectives.
  • Developing a knowledge of team building skills and basic military skills.

Additionally, efforts and learning to support these programs may count to support a credentialed School Counselor in meeting the military, career and college professional learning requirements required for renewal. 

SCED Course Titles

  • Introduction to Jr. ROTC
  • Military Jr. ROTC—unspecified branch
  • ROTC Drill
  • Military Leadership
  • Army Junior ROTC
  • Naval Junior ROTC
  • Air Force Junior ROTC
  • Marine Corps Junior ROTC
  • Military Science—Aide, Independent Study, Workplace Experience, and Other

JROTC and NNDCC Instructor Requirements

To be eligible for assignment as an instructor for these programs, a retired service member must hold the valid certificate issued by the Department of Defense (DoD). These instructors may not teach other classes in the K-12 setting without a valid Michigan teacher certification or being placed under an appropriate permit or authorization.

For additional information regarding JROTC and NNDCC programs please see the following military branch websites: