Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 1/12/2008

Question
Hello Colonel, I have taken your advice and decided to do the two- year ROTC program. But I have one question. If I were to get a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science for example....What kind of job would I start out with as a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Army as an officer? Would I be assigned as a platoon leader. Or could I choose any career I wanted even though I would have a BS degree in Exercise science?

Answer
Dear Frank --

Any bachelors degree from an accredited university or college meets the minimum educational requirement for a 2nd Lt.  When you are getting ready to graduate, you will get to ask for your desired branch in the Army.  You can ask for any branch you think you would like.  You will have to list at least five branch choices.  However, the Army has minimum needs in each branch for qualified officers and you could "be branched" based on Army needs rather than your preferences.  Usually a new officer gets one of their five choices.

Some branches prefer officers with science degrees, but you are not compelled to ask for one of those branches just because you have a science degree.  

Some branches have more platoon leader opportunities than other branches.  You should check with your professor of military science to discuss which branches are most likely to give you the leadership opportunities you desire.

Good luck to you.  Write back, if you have any other questions.