Welcome to the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) and the Naval Science Department of Purdue University! The NROTC program will challenge you, and we are dedicated to developing the most qualified officers for service in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. To achieve this, we emphasize academics, leadership, physical readiness, and a commitment to service. Our goal is to equip you with the skills needed to succeed as naval officers and as citizens of our nation.
Our primary objective is to create an environment where academic success is within reach for all students. A battalion-wide mentor program, led by Midshipmen, ensures accountability and provides support. We encourage students to enroll in core classes together, a strategy that has proven to foster academic success. Additionally, paid tutors, staff members, and senior Midshipmen provide supplemental instruction when needed. These efforts consistently result in NROTC students achieving GPAs above the university average, with 80 percent of our freshmen earning GPAs above 2.5.
Beyond academics, Midshipmen participate in Naval Lab and Physical Training. This two-credit hour course, managed by NROTC Midshipmen under the guidance of professional Naval Officer instructors, focuses on leadership development. As students progress, their responsibilities within the Midshipman Battalion increase, giving them the chance to grow as leaders, preparing them for the responsibilities of a Navy or Marine Corps officer.
Physical fitness is an essential part of military life. In NROTC, we adhere to the same physical fitness standards as active-duty Navy and Marine Corps officers. Regular exercise, athletic competitions, and intramural sports help develop Midshipmen physically while promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Our Midshipmen actively engage with the local community through various volunteer efforts. Each year, they participate in the Purdue Veterans 5K, raising awareness and funds for local veterans. They also take part in Purdue Winterization, helping elderly and disabled residents prepare their homes for winter, and volunteer at Natalie’s Second Chance Dog Shelter, assisting with dog walking and care. Additionally, Midshipmen support events like the Frozen Chosin Hike, which honors Korean War veterans, and volunteer for “Introducing Purdue,” where they help prospective students and their families explore campus. They also contribute to environmental efforts through “DeTrash the Wabash,” cleaning up the local Wabash River area. These experiences promote a sense of service and strengthen connections between the NROTC program, Purdue University, and the surrounding community.
The Purdue NROTC is a team—a team built on people, not just systems or equipment. Our success comes from the education, service, commitment, and experience of every individual in our Battalion. We work together to ensure the success of each Midshipman and the Battalion as a whole. We set high standards, provide guidance, and offer the opportunity for each student to grow to their fullest potential. If you are ready to serve, succeed, and develop as a leader, a career in the United States Navy or Marine Corps awaits you.
Welcome to our team at Purdue University NROTC. Boiler Up!
Sincerely,
P. J. Lee
Captain, U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer
