MSL - Military Science and Leadership

Introduces students to the personal challenges and competencies that are critical for effective leadership. Students learn how the personal development of life skills such as critical thinking, goal setting, time management, physical fitness and stress management relate to leadership, officership and the Army profession. The focus is on developing basic knowledge and comprehension of Army leadership dimensions while gaining an overall understanding of the ROTC program and its advantages for the student. All cadets must take a Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements. Participation in MSL 101 does not include military obligation.

Discusses leadership fundamentals such as problem-solving, listening, presenting briefs, providing feedback and using effective writing skills. Students explore dimensions of leadership, values, attributes, skills and actions in the context of practical, hands-on and interactive exercises. All cadets must take a Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements. Participation in MSL 102 does not include military obligation.

Required of MSL I cadets (freshmen) enrolled in MSL 101. Involves practical exercises in the principles of military courtesy, discipline, self-confidence, drill and ceremonies, as well as introduction to basic soldier skills and tactics.

Required of MSL I cadets (freshmen) enrolled in MSL 102. Involves practical exercises in the development of leadership fundamentals and soldier skills including basic land navigation, troop-leading procedures and squad tactical operations.

Explores the dimensions of creative and innovative tactical leadership strategies and styles by examining team dynamics and historical leadership theories that form the basis of the Army leadership framework. Cadets practice aspects of personal motivation and teambuilding in the context of planning, executing and assessing team exercises and participating in leadership labs. Focus is on continued development of the knowledge of leadership values and attributes through an understanding of Army rank, structure and duties, and basic aspects of land navigation and squad tactics. Case studies provide tangible context for learning the Soldier's Creed and Warrior Ethos as they apply in the Contemporary Operating Environment (COE). All cadets must take a Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements. Participation in MSL 201 does not include military obligation.

Examines the challenges of leading tactical teams in the complex Contemporary Operating Environment (COE). The course highlights dimensions of terrain analysis, patrolling, and operation orders. Continued study of the theoretical basis of the Army leadership framework explores the dynamics of adaptive leadership in the context of military operations. MSL 202 provides a smooth transition into MSL 301. Cadets develop greater self-awareness as they assess their own leadership styles and practice communication and team-building skills. All cadets must take a Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements. Participation in MSL 202 does not include military obligation.

A study of the development of American military institutions, policies, experience and traditions in peace and war from colonial times to the present. All cadets must complete MSL 203 to fulfill Army commissioning requirements. Participation in MSL 203 does not include military obligation.

Required of MSL II cadets (sophomores) enrolled in MSL 201. Involves practical exercises in the mission, organization and composition of military units, and continued development of soldier skills including basic land navigation, troop-leading procedures and squad tactical operations.

Required of MSL II cadets (sophomores) enrolled in MSL 202. Involves practical exercises at the military team/squad level, emphasizing the functions, duties and responsibilities of junior leaders. Students are evaluated for acceptance into the Army ROTC advanced course (MSL 300-and 400-level courses).

Challenges cadets to study, practice and evaluate adaptive leadership skills as they are presented with challenging scenarios related to squad tactical operations. Cadets receive systematic and specific feedback on their tactical leadership. Based on such feedback, as well as self-evaluations, cadets continue to develop their leadership and critical thinking abilities. The focus is on developing cadets' tactical leadership abilities to enable them to succeed at Army ROTC summer Leadership Development and Assessment Course (LDAC). Cadets also participate in a physical training program. They must either meet the prerequisites (MSL 100/200-level courses), attend a summer leader's training course, or substitute past military experience with the approval of the professor of military science. All cadets must take the Advanced Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements.

Challenges cadets by utilizing increasingly intense situational leadership challenges to build cadet awareness and skills in leading small units at the squad and platoon level. Skills in decision-making, persuading and motivating team members when "under fire" are explored, evaluated and developed. Aspects of military operations are reviewed as a means of preparing for the Army ROTC Leadership Development and Assessment Course. Cadets are expected to apply the Army leadership development model while leading teams; to apply tactical principles and doctrine to Army operations; and to conduct a self-assessment in personal development areas such as character, adaptability, and fitness in a garrison and field environment. Cadets also participate in a physical training program. They must either meet the prerequisites (MSL 100/200-level courses and MSL 301), attend a summer leader's training course, or substitute past military experience with the approval of the professor of military science. All cadets must take the Advanced Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements.

A four-week, continuous Army ROTC leadership course conducted at Fort Lewis, WA. The course environment is highly structured and demanding, stressing leadership at small-unit levels under challenging conditions. Topics include weapons applications, land navigation, small-unit tactics and various other military skills, as well as team-building and management techniques. The focus is on developing and assessing leadership, and individuals are continuously and formally assessed on their potential leadership ability. Attendance requires the permission of the professor of military science. Cadets receive pay, and the U.S. Army defrays travel, lodging and meal costs. Failure to attain course requirements at any time will result in immediate dismissal, return to campus, and potential disenrollment from Army ROTC. Each graduate receives a written Cadet Evaluation Report.

Required of MSL III cadets (juniors) enrolled in MSL 301. Involves practical exercises emphasizing the leader's role in directing and coordinating the efforts of individuals and small units in the execution of squad battle drills and offensive tactical missions.

Required of MSL III cadets (juniors) enrolled in MSL 302. Involves practical exercises that emphasize the duties and responsibilities of junior leaders in a garrison or field environment. Focuses on advanced individual skills and collective training in preparation for the four-week ROTC Leader Development and Assessment course. Particular emphasis is placed on the understanding of troop-leading procedures and the ability to develop and communicate a plan.

Develops cadet proficiency in planning, executing and assessing complex operations, functioning as a member of a staff, and providing performance feedback to subordinates. Cadets assess risk, make ethical decisions, and lead fellow Army ROTC cadets. Both their classroom and battalion leadership experiences are designed to prepare MSL 401 cadets for commissioned service as an officer. They identify responsibilities of key staff, coordinate staff roles, and use situational opportunities to teach, train and develop subordinates. Cadets also participate in a physical training program. Cadets must either meet the prerequisites (MSL 100/200/300-level courses) or substitute past military experience with the approval of the professor of military science. All cadets must take the Advanced Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements.

Explores the dynamics of leading in the complex situations of current military operations in the Contemporary Operating Environment (COE). Cadets examine differences in customs and courtesies, military law, principles of war, and rules of engagement in the face of international terrorism. They also explore aspects of interacting with nongovernmental organizations, civilians on the battlefield, and host nation support. The course places significant emphasis on preparing cadets for their first unit of assignment. It uses case studies, scenarios, and "What Now, Lieutenant?" exercises to prepare cadets to face the complex ethical and practical demands of leading as commissioned officers in the United States Army. Cadets also participate in a physical training program. They must either meet the prerequisites (MSL 100-, 200- and 300-level courses) or substitute past military experience with the approval of the professor of military science. All cadets must take the Advanced Leadership Laboratory course to fulfill Army commissioning requirements.

Required of MSL IV cadets (seniors). Involves practical exercises in staff planning and coordination at the battalion level with emphasis on leadership and management of the Spartan Battalion.

Required of MSL IV cadets (seniors). A continuation of MSL 410 that involves practical exercises to prepare cadets for service as commissioned officers.

An independent study in military science and leadership (Army ROTC) that provides cadets with an opportunity to pursue a topic, project or tailored curriculum under the guidance of an MSL faculty member. Variable credit.