St. Bonaventure University

Military Science (Army ROTC)


Whether you're planning a career in the Army or the corporate world, Army ROTC is one of the smartest college courses you can take, and one of the best leadership programs in America.

ROTC cadets in classROTC is a college elective you can try out for up to two years with no obligation. We give you a wide range of experiences while you work toward your degree.

You'll combine classroom time with hands-on experience, learning skills and acquiring leadership traits that are sure to give you an edge over your peers when it comes time to look for a job. Whether it's a military deployment to the Middle East, peacekeeping in Europe, or a boardroom meeting on Wall Street, we'll teach you how to cope with anything life can throw your way.

Introductory courses let you take a look at officer opportunities without obligation. Once you accept a scholarship or enter the final two years, you will make a commitment to serve as an officer on active, reserve, or National Guard duty.

When you commit, you'll be part of Team Seneca, the Southwestern New York ROTC Battalion, joining cadets from Alfred State College, Alfred University, Houghton College, Jamestown Community College, and the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. 

Program completion leads to a presidential appointment as a second lieutenant in the United States Armed Forces.

Acquire a minor in leadership

Regardless of whether or not you plan a career in the military, you may want to include a minor in leadership as part of your academic pursuits at St. Bonaventure. The leadership minor, which incudes courses from most schools at the university and is open to all students, regardless of their major, equips students with the leadership skills sought by most employers today.

  • ROTC cadets on obstacle course

    Your life as a ROTC cadet


    Our ROTC cadets are like any other college student. They attend to their studies, belong to clubs and organizations, and are active members of the St. Bonaventure community.

    Unlike the average college student, however, all of our cadets are leaders who wish to make something more of themselves. When not wearing the uniform of an ROTC cadet, our students are serving as class officers, resident assistants, captains of sports teams, or actively serving the community.

    Seneca Battalion cadets have the opportunity to participate in several ROTC extracurricular activities.