The Texan Corps of Cadets is a leadership development and spirit organization at Tarleton State University, dedicated to developing confident, capable, and service-minded leaders. Offering both military and civilian leadership pathways, the Corps provides students with hands-on leadership experiences, opportunities for personal growth, and a strong foundation in discipline, teamwork, and service. Rooted in a proud tradition dating back to 1917, the Corps prepares students to lead and succeed in the military, business, government, and communities across the nation. Cadets can pursue any academic major while taking advantage of scholarships, internships, leadership opportunities, and the option to earn a degree in Leadership and Strategic Studies. Whether pursuing a military career or a civilian profession, Texan Corps of Cadets graduates are prepared to lead the way.

Facts & Figures

$300,000

In Scholarships Given Annually

125%

increase in Corps growth over the last 3 years

220

Cadets Total (Fall 2026)

3.10

Average GPA (Spring 2025)

1917

ROTC Founded at Tarleton State

2016

Corps Re-established

87%

Retention Rate (Spring 2026)

100%

of Cadets Employed Within 6 Months

One Corps. Two Pathways.

The Texan Corps of Cadets is open to undergraduate and graduate students of any degree program, so long as they are full time students attending the Stephenville campus. Any student enrolled in Army or Air Force ROTC courses are considered members of the Texan Corps of Cadets and must submit a Corps application to continue participation in ROTC. Additionally, all first and second-year Cadets are required to enroll in an ROTC program for the first year. Cadets who do not receive or wish to pursue an ROTC contract remain members in the Corps of Cadets as Texan Leaders without military obligation.

Military Pathway

Participation in ROTC is an integral part of the Corps leadership experience. Tarleton State University has participated in the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) since 1917. The ROTC and PLC programs exist to commission well-educated officers into the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps in sufficient numbers to meet the accession mission of these Services. Cadets who pursue an ROTC track or PLC sign a contract with their service to commission as a second lieutenant upon graduation. ROTC Cadets complete a minor in Leadership Studies through their required coursework.

Learn More About ROTC

Texan Leader Cadets

Cadets who participate in the Corps are under no obligation to serve in the Armed Services. Non-contracted Cadets, or Texan Leaders, are required to complete four semesters of ROTC courses and participate in physical training and military lab to develop necessary leadership experience. Texan Leader Cadets participate in the Corps to the full extent and have unique access to internship and scholarship opportunities that lead to success post-graduation. Texan Leaders complete a minor in Leadership Studies through a combination of ROTC coursework and additional leadership courses.

More on the Texan Corps of Cadets

  • What is Cadet Life like?

    Life as a Cadet means early mornings, physical training, leadership development, academic excellence, campus involvement, and lifelong friendships.

  • How can I visit the Corps?

    Schedule a Tarleton campus visit, then contact a Corps recruiter for a personalized tour, dorm visits, a Corps presentation, and the chance to meet Cadets and staff.

  • How do I join the Corps?

    Complete the online Corps application, get accepted to Tarleton, and submit a housing application. A Corps recruiter will contact you once your application is processed.