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Join the Corps of Cadets

Is the Corps Right for Me?

We offer two tracks based on your goals after graduation. Cadets have the flexibility to switch between ROTCs and the Military-Leader and Civilian-Leader tracks as their career goals change.

A group of cadets practices drill on the Drillfield.

Military-Leader Track

Are you interested in commissioning as an officer into the U.S. armed forces or finding out if this is the right path for you? Virginia Tech offers all ROTC programs.

A businessman talks with a group of cadets.

Citizen-Leader Track

Are you interested in being a leader in your community or still undecided about your future path? 

We aim to develop highly sought citizen-leaders with the character, confidence, and wellness necessary to lead successful lives in service to others. Our Citizen-Leader Track allows cadets to apply the leadership skills learned through our military lifestyle directly to career-starting jobs in the public and private sectors. You will graduate without a military obligation and ready for whatever career path you choose to follow.

Why Choose the Corps?

The Corps of Cadets offers you leadership experiences you would expect from one of the nation’s six senior military colleges along with the balance of a public university that is ranked third in Princeton Review’s “Students Love Their Colleges” category for 2019.  

Our cadets get the most out of their college experience. 

The 1,100+ cadets are enrolled in any of Virginia Tech’s 110+ bachelor’s degree programs and have an opportunity to earn a minor in leadership studies from the Corps. They live in one of the Corps’ two residence halls, and participate in the Corps’ 24/7 leader development program.

Cadets pose with the HokieBird in Lane Stadium.