Cadet Timeline
Your Cadet career starts with General Military Course (GMC) during freshman and sophomore year, then you are given an opportunity to compete for Field Training. Once Field Training is completed, cadets advance to the Professional Officer Course (POC) to finish the remainder of their leadership training before entering active duty. Below is a timeline of what classes you will be expected to take for each semester you are enrolled in the program.
General Military Course (GMC):
During GMC you are given the opportunity to try out AFROTC without any commitment while learning the basic organizational concepts of the Air Force and its history. During the Sophomore year, cadets will havethe opportunity to compete for a field training allocation. Completion of Field Training is necessary in order to advance to the level of Professional Officer Course (POC).
Field Training:
Field Training will be a cadet’s first exposure to a working Air Force environment and the Aerospace Expeditionary Force concept. The program develops military leadership and discipline and provides Air Force Officer orientation and motivation. At the same time, the Air Force can evaluate each cadet’s potential as an officer. It is a 13-day event that occurs over the summer.
Professional Officer Course (POC):
The POC consists of your junior and senior years in the program. Upon entering the POC, cadets will contract with the Air Force. As a POC you will be given leadership opportunities to practice and hone your skills. After completing 2 years as a POC you commission into the U.S. Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant.
Commissioning:
Commissioning is the pinnacle of an AFROTC cadet’s career–it marks the transition from cadet to officer in the Air Force or Space Force. You will have a commissioning ceremony immediately after graduation, where you officially become a 2nd Lieutenant. After commissioning, you will then attend specialized job training and start your career as an officer.