Frequently Asked Questions
What military courses are required?
Several military courses are required during the academic year. Under the leadership of the Commandant of Cadets, the 34th Education Group has developed one required or "core" course for three of the four years at the Academy. These courses stress airpower heritage, professionalism, officership, the art of war, military theory, doctrine, and force employment. They also emphasize decision making in combat as well as leadership and commitment to duty, honor, and country. The courses are phased and integrated so each course builds logically towards graduation and commissioning. Other military courses are included in the summer. During the third-class summer, all cadets take Combat Survival Training. This three week course, conducted at the Academy and in the nearby Rocky Mountains, simulates the experience of an aircrew member who is forced down in unfamiliar territory. Another mandatory summer course is a three week tour of duty with an operational Air Force unit to gain insight into Air Force operations, the working environment and a 9-day barebase deployment training course. First- and second-class cadets are also required to assume at least one leadership position in summer training courses, such as BCT.
