Reserve Officers’ Training and its Influence on the Leadership Skills and Discipline of Criminology Students

Abstract

Structured training programs such as the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) play an important role in developing leadership competencies and discipline among students, particularly those preparing for careers in law enforcement and public safety. This study aimed to determine the influence of ROTC training on the leadership skills and discipline of criminology students in a private higher education institution in Misamis Occidental. The study employed a descriptive–correlational research design. Data were collected from 141 criminology students using a researcher-made questionnaire to measure ROTC training, leadership skills, and discipline. Data were analyzed using Mean, Standard Deviation, and Pearson Product–Moment Correlation Coefficient. Findings revealed that students experienced ROTC training to a very great extent, while leadership skills were rated very good, and discipline was very high. Results showed a statistically significant relationship between ROTC training, leadership skills, and discipline. The study concludes that ROTC training strengthens leadership competencies and disciplined behavior, highlighting its importance in criminology education. Educational institutions offering criminology programs may continuously support ROTC activities and integrate leadership-enhancing experiences that will help students apply leadership principles in both academic and real-life situations.