Are there any colleges with mandatory military training for their students?

I know some colleges have ROTC programs that require military training, but are there schools that mandate military training for all students, regardless of their major? If so, what are they like and what could I expect from the experience?

There are indeed some colleges in the United States where military training is a requirement for all students. These colleges are typically known as service academies and senior military colleges (SMCs). It's important to note that these institutions have a primary aim of producing commissioned officers in the United States Armed Forces.

Examples of service academies include:

1. The United States Military Academy (West Point)

2. The United States Naval Academy

3. The United States Air Force Academy

4. The United States Coast Guard Academy

5. The United States Merchant Marine Academy

Examples of senior military colleges include:

1. Texas A&M University

2. Norwich University

3. The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina

4. Virginia Military Institute

5. University of North Georgia

6. Virginia Tech

If you decide to attend any of these institutions, you will have a significantly different college experience compared to traditional colleges. The education at these institutions is rigorous and is designed to develop the whole person; this includes physical fitness, character, leadership traits, and technical skills.

In addition to traditional coursework, students (often referred to as cadets or midshipmen) receive training in military tactics, leadership, physical education, and other aspects necessary for a military commission. The lifestyle at these institutions is highly regimented, with requirements for uniforms, formations, and strict codes of conduct.

Upon graduation, students from these institutions are expected to serve in the military for a mandatory period, typically five years for the service academies. While this creates obvious bonds of camaraderie between cadets, it also represents a significant commitment, so it's important to consider your long-term career goals before attending these institutions.

If you're interested in the military, these institutions provide an excellent path to becoming an officer. However, if you're more interested in military training but not necessarily a military career, an ROTC program at a traditional college or university may be more suitable for you, as these provide military training without the full-time commitment or obligation to serve after graduation. Remember, a decision to attend a military institution is a significant commitment and should be carefully considered.