As part of the Longwood University Cooperative Program, Hampden-Sydney students may enroll in the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program. Application for the following Military Science and Leadership (MSCL) courses is made through the Registrar at Hampden- Sydney, just as for any other course at Longwood University. Students interested in the ROTC Program should contact LTC Rucker Snead (USA, Ret) at the Wilson Center at (434) 223-7077 or rsnead@hsc.edu. Such courses are recorded on the student's transcript. However, Military Science and Leadership courses do not count as hours toward graduation, nor are grades earned in them included in a student's grade-point average.
MSCL 101. Foundations of Officership.
Introduces students to fundamental components of service as officers in the United States Army. These initial lessons form building blocks of progressive lessons in values, fitness, leadership, and officership. Additionally, addresses "life skills," including fitness, communications theory and practice (written and oral), and interpersonal relationships. Prerequisite: first- or second-year class standing.
MSCL 102. Introduction to Leadership.
Introduction to "life skills" of problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership designed to help students in the near-term as leaders on campus. Will also help students be more effective leaders and managers in the long-term, whether they serve in the military or as leaders in civilian life. This course is designed to introduce the student to fundamental officer skills such as map-reading, land navigation, tactics, and leadership values/actions. Using these basic skills, students will build a rudimentary understanding of the core competencies necessary to become an Army officer and leader. Prerequisite: first- or second-year class standing.
MSCL 201. Innovative Team Leadership.
Explores the dimensions of creative and innovative tactical leadership strategies and styles by examining team dynamics and two historical leadership theories that form the basis of the Army leadership framework. Aspects of personal motivation and team building are practiced planning, executing and assessing team exercises, and participating in leadership labs. The focus continues to build on developing knowledge of the leadership values and attributes through understanding Army rank, structure, and duties, as well as broadening knowledge of land navigation and squad tactics. Case studies provide a tangible context for learning the Soldier's Creed and Warrior Ethos as they apply in the contemporary operating environment. Prerequisites: MSCL 101-102.
MSCL 202. Foundations of Tactical Leadership.
Examines the challenges of leading tactical teams in the complex contemporary operating environment (COE). This 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. The course provides a smooth transition into MSCL 301. Cadets develop greater selfawareness as they assess their own leadership styles and practice communication and team-building skills. COE case studies give insight into the importance and practice of teamwork and tactics in real-world scenarios. Prerequisite: MSCL 201.
MSCL 204. Leader's Training Course.
Five-week summer course consisting of leadership training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Completion of this course equates to completion of MSCL 101-202 and enables students to enroll in the advanced military leadership courses. The amount of academic credit awarded depends upon the amount of basic military science credit previously earned. Travel pay and salary provided through Department of Military Science and Leadership. Prerequisites: enrollment in the ROTC program, military service obligation, and permission of department chair.
MSCL 205. Military History.
Analyzes the US Army from Colonial times to the present. It emphasizes the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and 20th-century wars. It focuses on the Army's leadership, doctrine, organization, and technology, while simultaneously investigating the intellectual and ethical aspects of the Army in American and world society. MSCL 301. Adaptive Team Leadership. Cadets are challenged to study, practice, and evaluate adaptive team leadership skills as they are presented with the demands of the ROTC Leader Development and Assessment Course (LDAC). Challenging scenarios related to small-unit tactical operations are used to develop self-awareness an critical-thinking skills. Cadets receive systematic and specific feedback on leadership abilities. Prerequisites: MSCL 202 and 204, or permission of department chair.
MSCL 302. Leadership in Changing Environments.
Instruction and case studies that build upon leadership competencies and military skills attained in MSCL 301 in preparation for future responsibilities as army officers. Specific instruction is given in individual leader development, planning and execution of small-unit operations, individual and team development, and the army as a career choice. Prerequisite: MSCL 301, or permission of department chair.
MSCL 390. Independent Study.
In-depth exploration of a subject not included in other courses offered by the department, done independently under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisites: two semesters of Military Science and permission of department chair.
MSCL 401. Developing Adaptive Leaders.
Develops student proficiency in planning, executing, and assessing complex operations; in functioning as a member of a staff; and in providing feedback to subordinates. Cadets are given situational opportunities to assess risks, make ethical decisions, and lead fellow ROTC cadets. Lessons on military justice and personnel processes prepare them to make the transition to becoming Army officers. During the fourth year students lead cadets at lower levels. Both the classroom and battalion leadership experiences are designed to prepare cadets for their first unit of assignment. They identify responsibilities of key staff, coordinate staff roles, and use battalion operations situations to teach, train, and develop subordinates. Prerequisite: MSCL 302, or permission of department chair.
MSCL 402. Leadership in a Complex World.
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 non-government organizations, civilians on the battlefield, and host nation support. The course places significant emphasis on preparing cadets for Basic Officer Leaders Course (BOLC) II and III and their first unit of assignment. The course 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. Prerequisite: MSCL 302, or permission of department chair.
Scholarships are available for participants in ROTC.
updated 7/12/2018
