Citadel Military College of South Carolina has a long and storied history as one of the nation’s premier military schools. Located in Charleston, South Carolina, Citadel has been educating young men and women since 1842. A military school with a rich history, Citadel is home to thousands of cadets who have gone on to serve the United States in various branches of the military.
The Citadel’s foundational principles are centered on the core values of honor, duty and respect. Valuing the importance of an education, Citadel requires its cadets to attend classes and participate in activities such as marksmanship, physical training, and military drill. The college also encourages its cadets to join clubs and organizations which promote leadership, service and community involvement.
The Citadel’s mission is to serve as an educational institution that develops principled leaders who are prepared to serve their communities and country. This mission is accomplished through four core principles: academic excellence, leadership development, physical fitness, and moral and ethical training. Throughout each year at the college, cadets are required to participate in leadership-building activities such as physical training drills, ceremonial parades and other military exercises. In addition to these activities, cadets also participate in athletics, intramural sports and outdoor adventures such as river rafting and rappelling.
Citadel prides itself on a culture of fellowship amongst its cadets and alumni. The college has many traditions for current cadets as well as alumni gatherings for those who have graduated from the college. Every year in December there is a formal dinner called 'Mess Night' where the graduating class is presented with their sabres by the senior class. Additionally, cadets have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities such as student government, clubs and organizations, student newspapers and other media outlets.
Citadel’s commitment to excellence has seen it through more than 175 years of service to the nation by producing some of the most respected military leaders in our nation’s history. Its legacy as one of the premier military colleges in the United States serves as an example for others looking to lead their peers and country into a brighter future. With its rich history of honor, duty, respect and excellence, Citadel Military College of South Carolina stands ready to continue its mission of producing principled leaders for years to come. Take action today by applying for admission or donating to The Citadel Foundation to help continue its legacy!