Program Information

      Portland State University and the Oregon Army National Guard offer a unique leadership development program specifically for the civilian career-minded student. This program, Guard Officer Leadership Development or GOLD provides motivated young men and women with exciting and valuable instruction in a variety of areas such as decision-making, goal-setting, team-building, and small-group leadership. Classroom and outdoor activities are designed to physically, mentally, and emotionally challenge you, build your self-confidence, and develop your leadership skills. If you qualify, you could earn a commission as a Army officer upon graduation in the Oregon Army National Guard.

What does the GOLD Program consist of?

Military Science Course Description

      The Basic Course is comprised of 100 and 200-level lower division courses, is usually taken in your freshman and sophomore years, and is open to any student enrolled at PSU. Your participation in this course is completely voluntary and requires no military commitment. Instruction is oriented on adventurous outdoor activities that gives you insight into the military service, basic soldiering, and leadership.

      You also get to learn about the citizen-soldier and his or her social contributions, duties, and responsibilities. Through your personal involvement, you get to see whether this role appeals to you.

      You must join the Guard and complete Army Initial Entry Training to be eligible for the Advanced Course.

      The Commissioning Program is a two-year phase that integrates classroom instruction, military training, and practical experience to progressively develop your leader skills, qualities, and character. During the summer of your junior year, you will attend LDAC (Leadership Development Assessment Course - 30 days) in which you will learn basic field leadership skills. Candidate with your OCS class during the summer. For this training, you are paid as a SGT (E-5). During your senior year, leader development occurs in the 400-level upper division Military Science and PEH 180 Army Physical Fitness classes. As a senior cadet you will plan and execute the duties of a junior officer. assess your performance and provide you the essential feedback and reinforcement you need to become a top-notch leader in business, the community, and the Guard.

• Be between 18 and 30 years old. Age wavier may be granted up to age 35 by the Adjutant General or Commanding General of the State or Territory you reside in. (NGB-ARH Memo #06-11)
• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Be a member of the Army National Guard.
• Have completed Initial Entry Training (IET).
• Be in good health as evidence by a current physical.
• Must have either 60 Semester Hours or 90 Quarter Hours from an accredited college or university towards a degree to start. (IAW AR 350-51)
• Have an Army GT score of 110
• Be of good moral character and behavior.
• Although you do not have to participate in the Basic Course to enter the Advanced Course, it is encouraged.

    CPT Paul Kemper- PSU GOLD Administrator

    MSG Bill Kaemmer - PSU GOLD NCOIC/Senior Advisor

    (OFFICE #1) 503-725-3512

    (OFFICE #2) 503-725-3215