Questions about NROTC College Programming

[bcal]

First, I apologize if all of these questions have been answered in the past. I did several searches and didn't find much information about being a NROTC college programmer.
My questions:
1. What is the process to be a college programmer?
2. Are college programmers treated the same as individuals who received scholarships?
3. Do you have to be initially qualified by DoDMERB to participate? If not, when do you have to be?
4. Do you have to eventually receive a scholarship to commission?
5. Do college programmers commit to the Navy? If so when?
6. What is the service obligation?
7. Are the opportunities the same for those with scholarships and for programmers while in NROTC and once commissioned?

Thank you

 

[NROTC_HOPEFULLY]

good questions, but unfortunately I don't think I know the answers. You should ask someone else!

 

[DeskJockey]

Here is a link to the Yale NROTC Unit's FAQ page which I believe answers all of your questions:

http://rotc.yale.edu/sites/default/files/Yale NROTC Frequently Asked Questions.pdf

 

[bcal]

Thank you! That FAQ was very helpful.

 

[kinnem]

First, I apologize if all of these questions have been answered in the past. I did several searches and didn't find much information about being a NROTC college programmer.
My questions:
1. What is the process to be a college programmer?

It might vary by unit but generally enrolling in the Naval Science courses including the lab will kick off the process. Some schools require an application. All will require a physical from your own doctor. If the school also requires a physical they may use that. I would also call the unit and let them know you plan to enroll both as a courtesy and so they can start their own paperwork. They will notify you of when NROTC Freshman Orientation starts.

2. Are college programmers treated the same as individuals who received scholarships?

Yes, except for participation in summer training College Programmers may not participate in summer training.

3. Do you have to be initially qualified by DoDMERB to participate? If not, when do you have to be?

No. The physical from your own doctor serve the purpose for allowing you to participate. You must pass the DoDMERB physical before you can contract (officially receive a scholarship or advanced standing)

4. Do you have to eventually receive a scholarship to commission?

No, but you must achieve Advanced Standing by your rising junior year. This requires you to contract and you are then committed to the AD service obligation. You will also receive the stipend at that point. Advanced Standing is basically their way to give you permission to proceed in the program and commission.

5. Do college programmers commit to the Navy? If so when?

When they contract. That occurs either when they receive a scholarship or Advanced Standing.

6. What is the service obligation?

Depends. Official NROTC web site can answer that one.

7. Are the opportunities the same for those with scholarships and for programmers while in NROTC and once commissioned?

Yes and yes... except for summer training as stated above.

 

[bcal]

Thanks for the info Kinnem!