The original concept of ROTC, as established in 1862, was to provide a nucleus of Officers, well trained in military science, who could supplement the regular officer corps.

Military training has been part of the University of Cincinnati since 1917. In 1946, the Department of Aerospace Studies was started on campus, representing the newly created Air Force. The very first Arnold Air Society Chapter was established at UC just two years later in 1948. From the beginning, Aerospace Studies has been considered an integral part of the university curriculum. In 1993, Detachment 665 won its first National Award, the Project Warrior Award in conjunction with Operation Standard Bearer. 1995 was a banner year for the University of Cincinnati with Det 665 being awarded the prestegious Air Force Association award for "Best in Ohio." For the combined period 1994 through 1995, Det 665 received the Air Force's Outstanding Unit Award given to only the top 10% of all Air Force Detachments. Most recently, Det 665 received the Right of Line Award for the top small AFROTC Detachment in the Northeast Region in 2005.

Today, Air Force ROTC has become the largest commissioning source of Air Force Officers. Beginning with this year's graduating class, all graduates from AFROTC receive regular commissions. At the same time, Officers who receive their commissions through Air Force ROTC continually find the opportunities, professional growth and personal satisfaction offered by Air Force careers that well exceeds the expectations and experiences in civilian life.