Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville
Chicago, IL
"Building Leaders One Cadet at a Time"
The Verdict
Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville is a tuition-free CPS magnet school that combines Army JROTC leadership development with a rigorous STEM-focused curriculum. Located in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood—once known as the "Black Metropolis"—CMA draws motivated students citywide who seek structure, discipline, and a path to college or military careers.
The academy's integrated STEM approach includes dual-enrollment college courses and industry certifications, allowing cadets to graduate with transferable credits and career-ready credentials.
Campus & Cadet Life
About
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville's mission is to prepare cadets for postsecondary success through a rigorous and relevant, integrated STEM curriculum providing access to early college, industry certifications, career technical education and JROTC.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
developmental
Key Requirements
- Chicago Public Schools application through GoCPS
- Academic records review
- Attendance history evaluation
- Behavior record consideration
- Interview (may be required)
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
Urban campus within Chicago Public Schools facilities
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
209
Student:Teacher
10:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
CMA follows a structured school day with morning formation, academic classes, JROTC leadership labs, and after-school activities. Cadets wear uniforms daily and participate in drill and ceremony. The day emphasizes time management and personal responsibility typical of military-style education.
Discipline Model
CMA operates under both Chicago Public Schools conduct policies and Army JROTC cadet discipline standards. Cadets are held to a cadet code of conduct emphasizing respect, responsibility, and integrity. The cadet battalion structure includes student leadership positions—Battalion Commander, Company Commanders, and Squad Leaders—creating peer accountability and leadership development opportunities.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
Majority pursue postsecondary education
Where Graduates Go
Cadets receive guidance for service academy applications; JROTC participation strengthens military academy candidacy
Hall of Fame
CMA Alumni
Graduates have gone on to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces and pursue degrees at universities across the country
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Physical training is incorporated through JROTC fitness requirements including the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). Cadets participate in regular PT sessions, drill team practice, and Raider competitions that develop endurance, strength, and teamwork.
Facilities
Urban campus facilities include a gymnasium, athletic fields for outdoor activities, drill practice areas, and classrooms equipped for STEM instruction. The school utilizes CPS athletic resources and participates in Chicago Public League competitions.
External Ratings
We don't collect or moderate reviews. Links point to trusted third-party sources.
Official Federal Data Sources
Verify information directly from U.S. Department of Education databases:
Related Schools
Air Force Academy High School
Chicago, IL
The Air Force Academy HS is a college preparatory school that has the distinction of being the only public Air Force Academy HS in the country. The school holds true to its core values of excellence, integrity and service.
Carver Military Academy
Chicago, IL
Carver Military Academy provides a rigorous, inquiry-based, college preparatory curriculum that creates lifelong learners. The military model fosters leadership and empowers all cadets to be independent and active citizens.
Marine Leadership Academy
Chicago, IL
Marine Leadership Academy prepares leaders in mind, body and character for success in college, career, and a life of service within the global community through an education that values honor, courage, and commitment.
Phoenix STEM Military Academy
Chicago, IL
Phoenix Military Academy (PMA) is a college preparatory, STEM high school where cadets are enrolled in the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC). The academy is committed to providing students with leadership opportunities and an engaging curriculum to prepare them as 21st-century leaders.
Rickover Naval Academy
Chicago, IL
The Mission of the Rickover Naval Academy is to empower cadets to meet and exceed academic standards through a challenging and engaging curriculum that promotes programs to prepare cadets for post-secondary education and/or independent living. Rickover Academy provides meaningful leadership training, experiences and activities to serve as a foundation for a lifetime of success.
Kenosha Military Academy
Kenosha, WI
Kenosha Military Academy is a public charter high school within the Kenosha Unified School District in Wisconsin. The school offers a military-structured educational environment with Army JROTC, combining college preparatory academics with leadership development and physical fitness.
Guides & Resources
Chicago's Public Military Academies: The Nation's Largest Free Network
Chicago Public Schools operates six tuition-free military high schools—the largest public military academy system in America. How to apply and what to expect.
Free Military Schools: Your Complete Guide to No-Tuition Options
Yes, free military schools exist. Public academies, charter schools, service academies, and Youth Challenge programs offer tuition-free military education—each with different requirements and trade-offs.
How to Evaluate a Military School Like an Insider
Tour like a pro. Read the handbook like a detective. Watch the mess hall like a spy. The complete guide to seeing past the polished presentation and finding the right school.
What Is a Military School?
Understanding the different types of military academies in the United States, from private boarding schools to public academies and Youth Challenge programs.
Age Requirements and Grade Placement at Military Schools
When is too young or too old for military school? Understand age cutoffs, grade placement policies, and post-graduate year options.
Dual Enrollment and Earning College Credit at Military School
Can military school students earn college credit before graduation? Explore AP courses, dual enrollment, and early college options at military academies.