Academic testing is an advantageous method of obtaining college credit for knowledge gained through life, professional and military experience. College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) also save Tuition Assistance funding for course requirements that are not available through testing programs. Sailors will be required to use academic testing and assess their likelihood of success by taking applicable pre-tests prior to applying for command authorization for Tuition Assistance.
Since the new requirement does not go into effect until the selection boards for FY-11 convene, Sailors have adequate time to prepare themselves, according to McCalip. “Sailors actually have until November 2009 (at the beginning of fiscal year 2010) when the eligibility of time-in-rate candidates will be validated for fiscal year 2011 selection boards,” explained McCalip.
“This is an element of the PME Continuum," he continued. "As Sailors become more senior, advanced education will provide them with more strategic perspectives and develop more effective warfighting, management, and business practices. PME is the right human capital investment for the Navy to make, and it will provide our organization with a huge return on our investment as we forge ahead with Sea Warrior and Sea Power 21.”
For more information on degree requirements and rating-relevant degrees for the Professional Military Education Continuum are available in NAVADMIN 203/05.
