Student-Focused Opportunities
The Tarleton Corps strives to provide the best and most rewarding opportunities for students. We pride ourselves on the experiences our cadets gain in their time with us and the connections those experiences bring once they are alumni.
Academics
The Corps promotes and enhances the scholastic performance of all Corps members by providing one of the most successful academic support programs on campus. The program includes an academic coach, dedicated to Cadets.
Character and Leadership
The Texan Corps of Cadets is designed to promote student success and for Tarleton student-Cadets to become critical thinkers, communicators, problem solvers, and team builders. The Corps affords undergraduate students an opportunity to complete a minor in Leadership Studies. The 18-hour curriculum is only open to members of the Corps. A minor in Leadership Studies is awarded through the academic coursework and satisfactory completion of leadership progression within the Corps.
The Corps of Cadets is designed to teach and develop certain personal characteristics, traits, techniques, and performance capabilities. The focus of the Corps to develop in each cadet, the value of teamwork and to embody the core values of Integrity, Leadership, Tradition, Civility, Excellence, and Service. Cadets are also encouraged to participate in service-related projects to better the University and local community.
Fall Semester 2025 begins August 22.
Scholarship and Financial Aid
Scholarships are available for members of the Texan Corps of Cadets. Texan Corps scholarships carry no military obligation, and are earned based on both merit and need. Military-based scholarships are provided by Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, and Marine Corps PLC programs. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
Physical Health
The purpose of the Corps physical training is to improve and maintain the overall level of physical and mental fitness, strength, and endurance of every Cadet. Along with physical fitness training, a healthy diet and control of physical weight will go a long way toward helping Cadets learn to live a healthy lifestyle.
Career Readiness
The Texan Corps of Cadets offers access to internships with both academic and experiential learning programs to prepare Cadets with marketable leadership skills and character traits valued by businesses, the government, and the military. Cadets who plan to pursue an active duty commission in the U.S. Military, including Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps, are able to apply to the traditional Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs, as a member of the Corps.
History and Tradition
The Tarleton State Corps of Cadets, also known as the Texan Corps of Cadets, has a rich history dating back to the establishment of Tarleton State University itself. Here’s a brief overview of its history:
Founding Years (1899-1917):
- Tarleton State University was founded in 1899 as John Tarleton Agricultural College.
- The Corps of Cadets program was established early in the institution’s history, emphasizing military training and discipline.
World War I and Aftermath (1917-1945):
- During World War I, many students and faculty members left to join the war effort, impacting the cadet program.
- After the war, the cadet program continued to grow and evolve.
World War II Era (1941-1945):
- During World War II, like many other universities, Tarleton State’s cadet program contributed to the war effort by training officers.
- The program saw significant changes during this period due to wartime demands.
Post-War Years (1945-1990):
- The cadet program continued to be an integral part of Tarleton State University.
- It provided leadership and military training to students, preparing them for service and leadership roles in various sectors.
Modern Era (1990-Present):
- In recent decades, the Corps of Cadets program at Tarleton State has continued to adapt to changing times.
- It remains a vital part of the university’s identity, offering leadership development, military training, and community service opportunities.
- The program is known for its traditions, including the Silver Taps ceremony and its distinctive uniforms.
Throughout its history, the Tarleton State Corps of Cadets has produced many distinguished alumni who have served in the military, government, business, and other fields. The program continues to uphold its tradition of leadership, honor, and service, contributing to the overall educational experience at Tarleton State University.
Friendship and Challenges
The Corps organized activities are meticulously designed to foster a sense of camaraderie, instill pride, and cultivate lifelong friendships among its members. The cadet lifestyle is characterized by a highly structured program that demands rigorous physical and mental discipline. Beyond military training, the Corps of Cadets at Tarleton State University is dedicated to developing essential personal characteristics, honing specific traits, and imparting advanced techniques and performance capabilities. Graduates of the program emerge with a distinct competitive advantage in the job market, equipped with strong leadership skills, a commitment to service, and a deep sense of responsibility.