Embarking on a successful acquisition career field, particularly in program management, requires specialized training and recognized certifications. For Department of Defense (DoD) personnel, the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) offers strategic pathways to achieve these credentials through its Advanced Acquisition Studies (AAS) and Basic Contract Management (BCM) certificates. These programs are meticulously designed to align with the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification standards, providing a significant advantage for those aiming for leadership roles in acquisition program management.
Streamlining DAWIA Certification through NPS Programs
NPS understands the demands of the acquisition career field and has integrated DAWIA training requirements into specific curricula. By enrolling in programs that include the AAS or BCM certificates, students can fulfill crucial DAU training courses necessary for DAWIA certification.
For those focused on Program Management Practitioner level certification, the following NPS curricula offer course fulfillment:
- Curriculum 522, Master of Science in Systems Engineering Management
- Curriculum 722, Systems Engineering Management / Systems and Program Management (DL)
- Curriculum 816, Master of Science in Systems Acquisition Management
- Curriculum 836, Master of Science in Program Management (DL)
Similarly, for individuals targeting Contracting Professional level certification, NPS curricula providing DAU course fulfillment include:
- Curriculum 522, Master of Science in Systems Engineering Management
- Curriculum 815, Master of Science in Defense Contract Management
- Curriculum 816, Master of Science in Systems Acquisition Management
- Curriculum 835, Master of Science in Contract Management (DL)
Certification Application Process Post-Graduation
Upon completing your NPS program, the next step towards solidifying your credentials in the acquisition career field is to formally apply for certification. Graduates must submit an official NPS transcript to their command’s DAWIA Program Director, utilizing DD Form 2518 (Fulfillment of DOD Mandatory Training Requirement). This submission initiates the process of recognizing your NPS coursework for DAWIA training credit.
Once your fulfilled courses are officially recorded in your Individual Development Plan (IDP) within the Career Acquisition Personnel and Position Management Information System (CAPPMIS), you may be eligible to apply for the relevant Functional Area certification. Eligibility is contingent upon meeting all certification requirements active at the time of your application. It’s important to note that acquisition experience and certification exams are separate from the course fulfillment process and must be addressed independently.
Staying Ahead in Your Acquisition Career
It’s crucial for those in the acquisition career field to remain informed about evolving certification standards. Acquisition experience is a vital component of certification, and it may take time after graduation to accrue the necessary years. During this period of experience accumulation, DAWIA certification standards can be updated.
Should new DAU courses be introduced to the Program Management Practitioner or Contracting Professional level certification standards in Fiscal Year 2023 or later, NPS graduates will need to complete these new courses directly through DAU to receive the required completion credit. It is also important to be aware that Naval officers, DON civilians, Army officers, and DA civilians will not receive Continuous Learning Points (CLPs) for DAU courses fulfilled through NPS programs.
By leveraging the NPS programs and understanding the DAWIA certification process, professionals can strategically advance their acquisition career field, particularly in program management, and contribute effectively to the DoD’s mission.
