What is an Air Force (AF) Credit and Why Do You Need It?
In the United States military, especially in the Air Force, credits are a way to measure a service member’s education, training, and experience. Earning credits can be beneficial for Air Force personnel as it can lead to promotions, special pays, and even college degrees. If you’re an Air Force member looking to get ahead in your career, understanding how to earn credits is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore five ways to get credit for AF and the benefits that come with it.
1. Take Online Courses and Certification Programs
The Air Force offers various online courses and certification programs that can help you earn credits. These programs are designed to enhance your skills and knowledge in specific areas, such as leadership, management, and technical skills. Some popular online courses and certification programs for AF members include:
- Air University (AU): Offers online courses and degree programs in areas like leadership, management, and aerospace studies.
- Community College of the Air Force (CCAF): Provides online courses and degree programs in areas like aviation, technology, and healthcare.
- Defense Acquisition University (DAU): Offers online courses and certification programs in areas like acquisition, contracting, and program management.
📚 Note: Make sure to check with your supervisor or education office to ensure that the courses you take are eligible for credit.
2. Participate in Professional Military Education (PME)
Professional Military Education (PME) is a critical component of an Air Force member’s career development. PME programs are designed to enhance your leadership and management skills, and they can also earn you credits. Some popular PME programs for AF members include:
- Airman Leadership School (ALS): A 24-day course that teaches leadership and management skills to non-commissioned officers (NCOs).
- Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (NCOA): A 24-day course that teaches leadership and management skills to senior NCOs.
- Squadron Officer School (SOS): A 6-week course that teaches leadership and management skills to officers.
3. Earn a Degree from a Regionally Accredited Institution
Earning a degree from a regionally accredited institution is another way to get credit for AF. The Air Force has a program called the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF), which allows AF members to earn an associate’s degree in a specific field. Additionally, AF members can also earn credits by attending a regionally accredited institution and taking courses that align with their Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC).
4. Participate in On-the-Job Training (OJT) and Apprenticeships
On-the-Job Training (OJT) and apprenticeships are excellent ways to earn credits while gaining practical experience in your field. The Air Force offers various OJT and apprenticeship programs that can help you develop new skills and earn credits. Some popular OJT and apprenticeship programs for AF members include:
- Air Force Apprentice Program: A 2-3 year program that provides hands-on training in a specific trade or skill.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program: A program that provides hands-on training in a specific skill or trade.
🔧 Note: Make sure to check with your supervisor or education office to ensure that the OJT or apprenticeship program you participate in is eligible for credit.
5. Take Standardized Tests and Certification Exams
Taking standardized tests and certification exams is another way to earn credits for AF. The Air Force recognizes various standardized tests and certification exams, such as:
- College Level Examination Program (CLEP): A program that allows AF members to earn credits by taking standardized tests in specific subjects.
- Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES): A program that provides funding for AF members to take certification exams and standardized tests.
- Certification exams: AF members can earn credits by taking certification exams in specific areas, such as IT, cybersecurity, and project management.
📝 Note: Make sure to check with your education office to ensure that the standardized tests and certification exams you take are eligible for credit.
| Opportunity | Description | Credits Earned |
|---|---|---|
| Online Courses and Certification Programs | Earn credits by taking online courses and certification programs through Air University, Community College of the Air Force, and Defense Acquisition University. | Varies |
| Professional Military Education (PME) | Earn credits by participating in PME programs, such as Airman Leadership School, Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, and Squadron Officer School. | Varies |
| Degree from a Regionally Accredited Institution | Earn credits by earning a degree from a regionally accredited institution, such as the Community College of the Air Force. | Varies |
| On-the-Job Training (OJT) and Apprenticeships | Earn credits by participating in OJT and apprenticeship programs, such as the Air Force Apprentice Program and On-the-Job Training Program. | Varies |
| Standardized Tests and Certification Exams | Earn credits by taking standardized tests and certification exams, such as CLEP, DANTES, and certification exams. | Varies |
In conclusion, earning credits for AF can be achieved through various opportunities, including online courses and certification programs, professional military education, degree programs, on-the-job training and apprenticeships, and standardized tests and certification exams. By taking advantage of these opportunities, AF members can enhance their skills and knowledge, earn credits, and advance their careers.
What is the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF)?
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The Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) is a regionally accredited institution that offers associate’s degrees and certificates to Air Force members.
How do I get credits for my online courses and certification programs?
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To get credits for your online courses and certification programs, you need to check with your supervisor or education office to ensure that the courses you take are eligible for credit.
What is the difference between a CLEP exam and a certification exam?
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A CLEP exam is a standardized test that measures your knowledge in a specific subject, while a certification exam is a test that measures your skills and knowledge in a specific area, such as IT or cybersecurity.
