ISU has programs for Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC. Army training was available in 1869. All able-bodied male students were expected to participate even though it was not required by the Morrill Act or the federal government; however, the federal government did not authorize commissioning of officers until 1919. From 1878-1897, female students received military training on a volunteer basis. Starting in 1919, army training consisted of a required two-year and a voluntary two-year advanced program. The Naval unit was established in 1926. The Air Force ROTC unit was established in 1949. In 1962, the basic ROTC program was placed on an elective basis.