Students in Washington have three main schools to choose from that offer participation in Air Force ROTC (AFROTC). All three are public institutions, but they vary in tuition rates and military benefits. Find out about these three schools in the state that offer AFROTC programs to multiple schools in the area.
School Comparison
| School Name | Institution Type | Location | Tuition (In-state, 2016-2017)* | Tuition Assistance/ Military Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Washington-Seattle | 4-year, public | Seattle, WA | $10,753 | Credit for military training, AFROTC scholarships |
| Central Washington University | 4-year, public | Ellensburg, WA | $7,719 | Credit for military training, AFROTC scholarships |
| Washington State University | 4-year, public | Pullman, WA | $11,041 | Credit for military training, AFROTC scholarships |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
Overview of Washington State Colleges with Air Force ROTC Programs
The state of Washington is home to three schools with unique AFROTC programs that also serve students from several additional institutions nearby. Compare the different programs below and how they vary in the available activities, scholarship opportunities and other factors.
University of Washington
The University of Washington offers participation in AFROTC Detachment 910. The program is also available to students from fourteen additional schools in the surrounding Seattle area, as well as the cities of Everett, Tacoma, Olympia and Vancouver. Those who wish to participate in AFROTC must complete all applications and forms, including submission of a sports physical and acknowledgement of prohibited activities for those in the program. Cadets in the program participate in weekly physical training, Leadership Lab and AFROTC coursework. Interested students may also choose to participate in extra activities, including Arnold Air Society, Silver Wings and the Blue Dragon Honor Guard. Students can apply for national AFROTC scholarships to help pay for tuition and fees and earn a monthly stipend and book allowance.
Central Washington University
Central Washington University has been home to AFROTC Detachment 895, also known as the Cascade Cowboys, since 1951. Interested students must be U.S. citizens, complete the ACT or SAT prior to Field Training, be in good physical condition and have good moral character. Cadets in the program commit 3 hours a week to physical training, 2 hours a week for Leadership Lab and 1 to 3 credit hours for AFROTC coursework, depending on their year in the program. Cadets can also spend time together participating in intramural sports, Scabbard and Blade, Arnold Air Society, community support events and movie nights. Students can apply for national AFROTC scholarships as high school students or in-college students.
Washington State University
Washington State University is home to AFROTC Detachment 905 that also serves students at the University of Idaho and Lewis-Clark State College. This prestigious detachment was recognized as the best large detachment in 2013 and 2014 from detachments in 17 states. The 4-year program consists of the General Military Course for the first two years, followed by two years of the Professional Officer Course. Both sections include physical training, Leadership Lab and AFROTC coursework. Cadets also undergo Physical Fitness Assessments that include sit-ups, push-ups, a timed run and waist measurements. Students can pursue AFROTC scholarships, as well as school-specific scholarships, as high school students or in-college students to help cover tuition, fees, books and other expenses.
