In 1915 military training appears for the first time in the catalog as a requirement in the first two years. However, the last two years permitted a choice between military drill and physical training. Two hundred and thirty credits were now required for graduation which included seven elective units. The total student cost per year was $250.
Compulsory military training for men students was not based on the California legislation of 1915 which permitted cadet corps in California high school , but rather "by act of Congress all state agricultural schools are required to give instruction in the elements of military science," (Basis for compulsory ROTC in one university or college in each state for several decades.) This appeared in all catalogs from 1915 until 1932. A picture of two boys in uniform seated for target practice carried the caption "Developing Steadiness of Eye and Hand," In the 1927-28 Bulletin, appearing directly underneath this picture was this paragraph -- "A reasonable amount of military training is a splendid thing for any red-blooded boy. It makes him resourceful and self-confident. A boy takes tremendous pride in being an officer and a leader."
A policy of military discipline was in effect by 1916. All male students had to be in full military uniform (cost - $15) daily from 0815 to 1600.