681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO

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Designator Description


Cryptologic Warfare (CW) Limited Duty Officers are the Navy's Information Warfare managers with expertise in all facets of Information Operations (IO), including traditional cryptology, Command and Control, Computer Network Operations and space systems. CW Officers create warfighting options for Fleet Commanders to fight and win in the information age. They deliver and operate reliable, secure and battle-ready global networks, and lead in development and integration of IO capabilities in the Fleet. Officer technical managers in all phases of operations conducted by the Naval Security Group Command. These operations include Signals Intelligence and Signals Security, as well as functions of administration, personnel, electronic maintenance, communications, Communications Security Material System, and technical research in support of the operating forces and the national cryptologic effort; plan and manage the employment of NAVSECGRU resources, equipment, and manpower; managerial responsibility for the installation, operation, and maintenance of electrical, electro-mechanical, and electronic equipment and the conduct of communications, administration of CMS functions. They also may serve as, but are not limited to, watch officers, division officers, electronic maintenance officers, administrative officers, operations officers, department heads, officer-in-charge, executive officers, and commanding officers at naval communications stations with NAVSECGRU departments, activities, detachments, headquarters, or in various operational and staff billets ashore and afloat.

681X Enlisted Source Ratings

National Certifications

The following civilian credentials are related to 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO. These credentials may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these credentials, click on the credential title below.

You can use the Engage My Career Tool on MilGears to enter personalized information to learn how your training and experience can meet certification requirements.



For more supervisory and managerial credentials, please refer to the Leader - Dept Head/Division Officer page or the Leader - Commanding Officer/Executive Officer/Officer in Charge page.

Compare Credential Agency Related As Attainability Navy$ GI Bill® Accreditation ID
CompTIA A+ In DemandIs In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications Is Not In Demand International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
Certified Video Engineer (CEV) Is Not In Demand Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc (SBE) otherOther        
CompTIA Linux+ Is Not In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
CompTIA Network+ In DemandIs In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) In DemandIs In Demand Check Point Software Technologies, Inc. someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) In DemandIs In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA) In DemandIs In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
CompTIA Security+ In DemandIs In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
GIAC Certified Forensics Analyst (GCFA) In DemandIs In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
GIAC Security Leadership Certification (GSLC) In DemandIs In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) In DemandIs In Demand ISACA someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
AM Directional Specialist (AMD) Is Not In Demand Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc (SBE) otherOther        
CyberSecurity Forensic Analyst (CSFA) Is Not In Demand CyberSecurity Institute otherOther        
Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) Is Not In Demand International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council) someSome highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) In DemandIs In Demand International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council) mostMost highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
GIAC Assessing and Auditing Wireless Networks (GAWN) Is Not In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Security In DemandIs In Demand Cisco Systems, Inc. someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
General Communications Technician - Level 1 (GCT1) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) someSome highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) Is Not In Demand INFORMS someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
General Communications Technician - Level 2 (GCT2) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) otherOther       AccreditationAccreditation
GIAC Continuous Monitoring Certification (GMON) Is Not In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther        
GIAC Network Forensic Analyst (GNFA) Is Not In Demand Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) otherOther        
Associate Certified Analytics Professional (aCAP) Is Not In Demand INFORMS someSome highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks    
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) Is Not In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
CyberSec First Responder (CFR) Is Not In Demand CertNexus (formerly Logical Operations) someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Information Technology Security (ITS) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) someSome highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) Is Not In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome highhigh Navy BucksNavy Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate Is Not In Demand Cisco Systems, Inc. otherOther       AccreditationAccreditation
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Is Not In Demand Cisco Systems, Inc. otherOther        
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise Is Not In Demand Cisco Systems, Inc. someSome mediummedium Navy BucksNavy Bucks    
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Enterprise Infrastructure Is Not In Demand Cisco Systems, Inc. otherOther        
Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft 365 Certified: Messaging Administrator Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft 365 Certified: Security Administrator Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft 365 Certified: Teams Administrator Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Power Apps + Dynamics 365 Developer Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 + Power Platform Solution Architect Expert Is Not In Demand Microsoft Corporation otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  

Department of Defense (DoD) Mandated Certifications

Defense Intelligence Agency PMO Program

Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is a Department of Defense (DOD) combat support agency.  The DIA produces, analyzes, and disseminates military intelligence information to combat and non-combat military missions. The DIA serves as the Nation’s primary manager and producer of foreign military intelligence and are a central intelligence producer and manager for the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), and the Unified Combatant Command.

Additional information related to the DIA Certification Program (PMO) can be obtained from JWICS website. 

The Intelligence Fundamentals Professional Certification (IFPC) Program

The Intelligence Fundamentals Professional Certification (IFPC) program is sponsored by the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence (USD(I)) to professionalize the defense intelligence workforce by establishing a common standard of the fundamental knowledge and skills expected of all who serve and support, and those who hope to serve and support, in the Defense Intelligence Enterprise (DIE). 

The genesis of the IFPC program is based on the Department of Defense (DoD) Inspector General Report (No. DoDIG 2015-015), “Evaluation of DoD Intelligence Training and Education Programs for the Fundamental Competencies of the DoD Intelligence Workforce”. This report indicated the presence of critical skill gaps and a lack of knowledge and skill standards for entry-level/developmental intelligence professionals. To address these gaps and fulfill the recommendations of the report, a DIE Subject Matter Expert (SME) Working Group and the Certification Governance Council (CGC) collaborated to develop standards based on work and knowledge requirements common to the DIE components. Following a very successful pilot with volunteers from across the DIE, the IFPC Program Management Office (CPMO) was formally established to manage candidates and the testing and conferral processes.

The IFPC was designed as a complementary program to all other intelligence tradecraft certification programs. It is not a replacement for those programs, but instead serves as a foundation upon which the other DIE certifications are built.

State Licenses

Some states have specific licensing requirements for the following related civilian occupations. These state licenses may require additional education, training or experience. Click on the occupation below to get more information on state requirements from the U.S. Department of Labor.

For more supervisory and managerial occupations, please refer to the LEADER - Dept Head/Division Officer page or the LEADER - Commanding Officer/Executive Officer/Officer in Charge page.

COOL may be able to assist with funding state licensure on a case by case basis. The following conditions should apply:

  1. Navy Reservists (SELRES) may get a state license funded based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. The state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty.
  2. Service members may get a state/county or municipality certification/license funded if they are separating or retiring in the state in which they desire the license. This will be a onetime funding opportunity based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. Renewals are authorized 60 days prior to their discharge/separation. The license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty. Service members should make contact with Navy COOL prior to 18 months remaining on their soft/hard EAOS due to the complicated funding processes of some states. Certification/license must be completed 60 days prior to separation.
  3. For each of the above opportunities, the Service member must contact Navy COOL prior to submitting a voucher request for licensure funding coordination.

As with any state license, you must meet all state eligibility criteria. Funding of a state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty (e.g. no real estate license, no beautician license, no private eye license, etc…). Contact Navy COOL for more information.

Related Civilian Occupations

The following civilian occupations are similar to the duties performed by 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO. These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the civilian occupation below.

For more supervisory and managerial positions, please refer to the LEADER - Dept Head/Division Officer page or the LEADER - Commanding Officer/Executive Officer/Officer in Charge page. To search for related civilian job opportunities, go to the Veteran's Employment Center.

Civilian Job Duties Matched Bright Outlook Registered Apprenticeship Local Salary Info
Computer and Information Systems Managers mostMost Bright OutlookBright Outlook  Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Computer Systems Analysts someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook    find local salaryfind local salary
Database Administrators someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook    find local salaryfind local salary
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians someSome     find local salaryfind local salary
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Management Analysts someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook  Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Mathematicians someSome     find local salaryfind local salary
Network and Computer Systems Administrators someSome     find local salaryfind local salary
Operations Research Analysts someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook    find local salaryfind local salary
Technical Writers someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook    find local salaryfind local salary

Related Federal Occupations

The following federal occupations are similar to 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO. These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the federal occupation below.

Related NOBCs

The following Navy Officer Billet Codes (NOBC) are associated with 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO. For more information, click on the links below.

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Other Career Considerations

A wide range of civilian job opportunities is available within the private and public sectors that align with 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO military training and experience. More information about these opportunities and other considerations concerning occupations related to 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO can be found below.

The IntelligenceCareers.gov website provides a portal to information on intelligence and defense related career opportunities to explore.

There is a wide range of job opportunities available within the U.S. Intelligence Community for information technologists, scientists, engineers, and crypto-, signals and imagery analysts. Individuals leaving the military with training and experience in the intelligence area will find positions that closely align with their military training and experience.

Agencies in the U.S. Intelligence Community include:

In addition, there are other intelligence components within the U.S. Intelligence Community associated with the Departments of Energy and Treasury as well as all branches of the military services. Due to the nature of these positions, U.S. citizenship and background checks are required. Other prerequisites may include age, medical or psychological examinations, and drug testing.

Important Note: The Department of Defense has cancelled the Troops to Teacher program, effective October 1, 2020.  Participants enrolled before that date will continue to be supported through October 2021.  Watch this space for additional information on transitioning to a career in education.

An additional resource for transitioning to a teaching career is the Troops to Teachers program. The Troops to Teachers program is a national program which provides support services to prepare military personnel for a career in teaching. Service members with a baccalaureate degree or higher are eligible to begin the traditional teaching certification process, however, Service members without a degree may also qualify to become a vocational/technical teacher. Click here for more information about the Troops to Teachers program.

COOL may be able to assist with funding state licensure on a case by case basis. The following conditions should apply:

  1. Enlisted Navy Reservists (SELRES) may get a state license funded based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. The state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty.
  2. Enlisted personnel may get a state/county or municipality certification/license funded if the Sailor is separating or retiring in the state in which he/she desires the license. This will be a onetime funding opportunity based on their Navy or civilian occupation, earned academic degree or a semester course. Renewals are authorized 60 days prior to their discharge/separation. The license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty. Enlisted Sailor should make contact with Navy COOL prior to 18 months remaining on their soft/hard EAOS due to the complicated funding processes of some states. Certification/license must be completed 60 days prior to separation.
  3. For each of the above opportunities, the Sailor must contact Navy COOL prior to submitting a voucher request for licensure funding coordination.

As with any state license, you must meet all state eligibility criteria. Funding of a state license must have relevancy to a Navy occupation or collateral duty (e.g. no real estate license, no beautician license, no private eye license, etc…). Contact Navy COOL for more information.

Troops to Tech Careers is a program created by CompTIA to provide opportunities and resources for Veterans interested in a career in the information technology (IT) field.  Troops to Tech Careers is a collaboration between CompTIA, educational institutions and training organizations, and corporate employers to provide Veterans with an opportunity to Learn-Certify-Work.  Veterans can locate education and training centers nationwide that will help them plan an IT career pathway and identify training courses they may need to prepare for a related IT certification.  On the employer side, Troops to Tech Careers maintains a corporate registry listing companies that have made a commitment to prioritize hiring IT certified Veterans.  Additional information about the program can be found at the Troops to Tech Careers website.

Voluntary Education

Voluntary Education

In addition to obtaining certifications in your field, voluntary education is another way to enhance job performance. Options for voluntary education include:

For help in making informed choices on schools, education programs, and using tuition assistance, see:


You can use the Engage My Career Tool on MilGears to enter personalized information to learn about degree programs related to your training and experience and next steps towards pursuing a degree.

Additional Information

Additional information pertaining to 681X - Cryptologic Warfare LDO can be found below.

Cyberspace IT/Cybersecurity Workforce (Cyber IT/CSWF)

SECNAV M-5239.2, signed June 2016, mandates identification, tracking, and reporting of personnel within the Cyberspace IT/Cybersecurity Workforce (Cyber IT/CSWF) and use of qualifications (i.e. commercial certifications; or Navy Enlisted Classification code (NEC); or academic degree) to validate Cyber IT/CSWF baseline and continuous knowledge and skills. Some Officers may have these Cyber IT/CSWF responsibilities and will need to meet qualifications.

For more information, see:

Collateral Duty / Out of Rate Assignments

Navy collateral duties/out of rate assignments play a vital role in the day-to-day operations and duties that Officers and Enlisted Sailors perform. Certifications and licenses are also available in these collateral duties/out of rate assignments, so please go to the Collateral Duty/Out of Rate Assignments search feature (under the Navigator) and explore more opportunities to get certified.

Opportunities Related to Academic Degrees

Out of rate or designator requests for exam funding for credentials related to an earned academic degree or a semester course may also be funded if it can be directly related to an industry certification or state license.

For example, if you have a degree in Human Resources but are serving as a Culinary Specialist, you can get funding for a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification.

If the completed degree is not in the Sailor's Joint Service Transcript (JST), the Sailor must provide proof of completion with the Voucher Request Form, OPNAV 1500/57 for funding approval. The requested credential must be included on the Navy COOL website, and the Sailor must meet all other eligibility requirements.

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Opportunities for Prior Rate or Designator Sailors

If you have cross-rated or redesignated, you now are eligible for certifications and licenses mapped to your prior rating or designator. The “Navy Bucks” icon on the Navy COOL page for your previous position/rate indicates which certifications and licenses may be funded.

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Opportunities Related to Off-Duty or Command-Sponsored Training

If you can document that you have completed an on- or off-duty training course that fully prepares you for a civilian certification or license, you may now be eligible to have the credential exam funded.

For example, if you took a Command-sponsored Emergency Medical Technician course, you may be eligible for funding for an EMT Basic credential.

The requested credential must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks icon to be funded.

College course completion must be annotated in your Joint Service Transcript. Formal off-duty or command-sponsored training should be visible in your Electronic Training Jacket (ETJ). In lieu of an ETJ entry (where training cannot be entered into the ETJ) you will need to submit some form of, proof of completion (a certificate of completion from the course/training is sufficient). If neither of the previously mentioned methods of validating proof of completion are available, then a command correspondence (such as a command letter, memo, or PG-13 form) describing the training along with the OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Opportunities for Navy Reservists

If you are a Navy Reservist, officer or enlisted, you may now be eligible for funding for credentials related to your civilian occupation. The certification or license must have relevance to the needs of the Navy, and must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks icon to be funded.

To validate your civilian occupation, you will need a screen shot from Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) showing the Civilian Occupational Code. Please send the NSIPS screenshot with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

In lieu of NSIPS documentation you may also submit a command endorsed and executed NAVPERS 1070/613 (PG-13) Administrative Remarks form noting your civilian occupation along with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form). You must sign the PG-13.

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Prior Other-Service Occupation

If you are Navy (Active or Reserve), you may now be eligible for funding for credentials related to prior other-Service (Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard) occupation. The certification or license must have relevance to the needs of the Navy, and must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks Navy Bucks icon icon to be funded.

To validate your prior other-Service occupation, you will need to provide Navy COOL with a document (e.g. DD-214; or Military Service School completion certificate; or other document) showing your other-Service occupation. Please send the document (scanned & emailed) with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

Credentials Earned & Maintained Prior to Joining the Navy

If you are Navy (Active or Reserve), you may now be eligible for funding for credentials that were earned, and maintained, prior to entering the Navy. The certification or license must have relevance to the needs of the Navy, and must appear on Navy COOL, although it does not need to show the Navy Bucks Navy Bucks icon icon to be funded.

To validate your earned & maintained credential, you will need to provide Navy COOL with a scanned or emailed document (e.g. credential certificate document, screenshot from your credential dashboard, digital badge, etc…) showing the credential earned and maintained. Please send the document (scanned & emailed) with your OPNAV 1500/57 Professional Certification and Licensing Voucher Request (COOL Voucher Request Form).

As with any credential, you must meet all other eligibility criteria and the certification or license vendors' requirements.

This is an official U.S. Navy websiteUpdated: March 31, 2021
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Click here to go to CompTIA A+ COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), A+ certification validates the entry-level computer technician's competency to perform a myriad of critical IT support tasks. CompTIA A+ technicians demonstrate skills in networking, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, network and software troubleshooting, installing and configuring operating systems, security, and operational procedures. Candidates must pass both the Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002) exams.
Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians, Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications credential is for technicians working in the electronics field. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of two-way transceivers and how to service them. Candidates also must understand communication theory, transmitters, deviation, sensitivity, quieting, and troubleshooting. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) COOL Snapshot page.

The Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) certification is an intermediate-level credential for individuals candidates pursuing a career in cybersecurity. CCSA candidates install security gateways in distributed environments, configure rules on servers, assign permissions, schedule backups and upgrades with minimal downtime, and monitor and troubleshoot IPS and common network traffic. CCSA candidates must have basic knowledge of networking, Windows Server or UNIX skills, internet and TCP/IP experience and satisfy prerequisites. Candidates are required to pass an exam.
Click here to go to Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is an advanced certification for the individual who designs, builds, and manages an enterprises information security. CISM focuses on information risk management as the basis of information security. It also includes material on broader issues such as how to govern information security as well as on practical issues such as developing and managing an information security program and managing incidents. This certification is targeted toward experienced information security managers and those who have information security management responsibilities. Five or more years of information security work experience, with a minimum of three years of information security management work experience is required.
Click here to go to Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council), Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) validates the skills of information technology professionals who apply computer investigation and analysis techniques to determine potential legal evidence. The crimes can include theft of trade secrets, theft of or destruction of intellectual property, and fraud. CHFIs demonstrate data recovery skills, which are needed to uncover data in a computer system, or recover encrypted, deleted or damaged file information. The certification target audience includes defense and military personnel, e-Business security professionals, systems administrators, legal professionals, banking, insurance, IT managers, government agencies, and law enforcement personnel. Candidates must meet a combination of training and experience requirements. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program certifies professionals who are responsible for securing (or testing the security of) computer networks from a vendor-neutral perspective. A Certified Ethical Hacker understands how to look for the weaknesses and vulnerabilities in networks and/or computer systems, and, lawfully and at the request of an organization, uses the same tools as a malicious hacker. The CEH is appropriate for security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators, and others who may be concerned about the integrity of their organizations network infrastructure. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Security COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Cisco Systems, Inc., Cisco Certified Network Professional Security (CCNP Security) is a professional-level certification for candidates in job roles in security technologies. To earn the CCNP security, candidates must pass two exams: a core exam and a concentration exam of the candidate's choice. The core exam focuses on knowledge of security infrastructure. The concentration exams focus on emerging and industry-specific topics. There are no formal prerequisites to sit for the CCNP Security exams; however, it is recommended that candidates have a three to five years of experience implementing security solutions.
Click here to go to General Communications Technician - Level 1 (GCT1) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), General Communications Technician Level 1 (GCT1) certification is an entry-level credential designed to cover the many areas encountered by radio communications technicians or engineers in the public safety communications or business/commercial radio field. The GCT1 certification is modeled after wide-ranging industry communication systems encompassing more specific detailed items along with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidelines covering all disciplines in the COMT program. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

INFORMS, Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) certification advances the use of analytics by setting agreed upon standards for the profession and advances the profession by providing a means for organizations to identify and develop qualified analytics professionals, by contributing to the career success and continued competence for analytics professionals, and by improving the credibility and visibility of the analytics profession. The CAP examination measures acceptable performance across seven major areas or domains of practice that adhere to the analytics end-to-end process: business problem framing, analytics problem framing, data, methodology selection, model building, deployment, and model life cycle management. Candidates must have a minimum of a BA/BS degree and at least 7 years of professional analytics related experience.
Click here to go to Certified Collection Management Professional - Fundamental (CCMP-F) web page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The Defense Intelligence Agency PMO (DIA), Certified Collection Management Professional - Fundamental (CCMP-F) is a professional level certification that assesses collection management (CM) knowledge that is common, core, and critical to CM activities across the Defense Collection Management Enterprise (DCME).  By earning the CCMP-F, certification holders demonstrate knowledge that supports work in joint, multiple-intelligence discipline environments across all echelons of the DCME.  This knowledge includes a common professional lexicon, or list of professional terms and concepts, and it enables collection managers to transfer their knowledge from a job at one DCME organization to any other. The CCMP-F exam is open to any individual in the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC), though most candidates come from within the DCME.  All candidates must possess an active TOP SECRET/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance at the time of the certification assessment and must be in ‘good standing' as defined by their employing component. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Certified Defense All-Source Analysis - Level 1 (CDASA-1) web page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Defense Intelligence Agency PMO (DIA), Certified Defense All-Source Analysis - I (CDASA-I) is an intermediate level credential designed as part of an effort to professionalize the military and civilian Defense Department intelligence workforce. CDASA-1s must demonstrate knowledge and ability in All-Source Analysis skills and maintain their analytic abilities through continuing education. These skills ensure an integrated, agile intelligence force that can support departmental requirements in an ever-changing environment. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Joint Intelligence Planner-Proficiency Level I (JIP-I) web page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Defense Intelligence Agency PMO (DIA), Joint Intelligence Planner-Proficiency Level I (JIP-I) is part of the DoD-wide initiative to professionalize the intelligence workforce directed by the USD(I). JIP-I was created to develop, define, and measure broad-based core competencies for joint IP professionals across the Defense Intelligence Enterprise (DIE). JIP-I certification covers both Foundational and Full Performance execution of IP and ensures all joint intelligence planners understand the core concepts of IP and how they support Joint Operations Planning (JOP) and the planning of intelligence operations. Candidates must have at least 18 months of Intelligence Planning Experience performed within the last three years and must currently hold an active TOP SECRET/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance and be in 'good standing' as defined by their employing Component.
Click here to go to Associate Certified Analytics Professional (aCAP) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Informs, Associate Certified Analytics Professional (aCAP) is a vendor and software neutral entry-level credential for professionals who are educated in data science and analytics. The aCAP is for recent graduates or entry level practitioners who lack the experience that is essential to earn the Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) certification. The aCAP is focused on seven domains of the analytics process: Business Problem Framing, Analytics Problem Framing, Data, Methodology Selection, Model Building, Deployment, and Lifecycle Management. Candidates must meet education requirements. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The CompTIA, Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) uses continuous security monitoring to apply behavioral analytics to devices and networks to prevent, detect and combat cybersecurity threats. CySA+ certification validates that the professional has the knowledge and skills required to leverage threat detection techniques and intelligence, find and address vulnerabilities, analyze and interpret data, recommend preventative actions, and successfully respond to and recover from incidents. While there is no required prerequisite, CySA+ is intended to follow CompTIA Security+ or equivalent experience and has a technical, hands-on focus. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to CyberSec First Responder (CFR) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

CertNexus, CyberSec First Responder (CFR) is a mid-level certification for security professionals who are the first responders against cyber attacks. Candidates should be able to identify, respond to, protect against, and remediate malicious activities involving computing systems. Additionally, candidates should have the foundational knowledge to deal with a changing threat landscape and will be able to assess risk and vulnerabilities, acquire data, perform analysis, continuously communicate, determine scope, recommend remediation actions, and accurately report results. While there are no formal education or experience prerequisites, the certification is targeted to professionals with three to five years of experience working in a computing environment as part of a CERT/CSIRT/SOC who desire or are required to protect critical information systems before, during, and after an incident which may be a cybersecurity attack.
Click here to go to Information Technology Security (ITS) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 1 year

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Information Technology Security (ITS), certification covers all areas of cybersecurity for information technology. ITS-certified specialists are expected to have the major knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to perform the professional tasks associated with the development of security plans and processes for information technology and cybersecurity. The ITS certification identifies a specialist’s knowledge of computer hardware and software security measures as well as wireless communications security, device security, cryptography, social engineering, virus detection/mitigation, troubleshooting, disaster prevention/recovery and site risk analysis. ETA-I does not have eligibility requirements for the ITS certification. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification is an entry level certification for those beginning a career in the field of information technology (IT) or those in a field where a general knowledge of IT is necessary.  To earn the certification, candidates must pass one exam covering foundational IT concepts such as understanding the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, software development, and database use. There are no experience requirements that must be met prior to taking the exam.
Click here to go to Intelligence Fundamentals Professional Certification (IFPC) web page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Fundamentals Professional Certification (IFPC) program is sponsored by the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence (USD(I)) to professionalize the defense intelligence workforce by establishing a common standard of the fundamental knowledge and skills expected of all who serve and support, and those who hope to serve and support, in the Defense Intelligence Enterprise (DIE). The IFPC is based on the Defense Intelligence Fundamentals standards, which are cross-cutting and enterprise-wide, and depict the Department’s core expectations of what all Defense Intelligence Professionals, regardless of Service/Agency, Function/Specialty and experience level, must know and/or be able to do to successfully execute and/or contribute to the execution of intelligence missions, functions, and activities at the fundamental level. The IFPC will also serve to ensure incoming defense intelligence professionals meet knowledge standards. IFPC candidates must meet minimum eligibility requirements and pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Cisco Systems, Inc., Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise is an intermediate-level certification for networking professionals.  The CCNP Enterprise certification program is designed to validate skills in core enterprise technologies and provide an opportunity to select a focus on emerging and industry specific topics.  To earn the CCNA Enterprise certification, candidates must pass a core exam and a concentration exam of their choosing.  The core exam focuses on knowledge of enterprise infrastructure including architecture, visualization, network assurance, security and automation.  While there are no prerequisites, candidates are recommended to have three to five years of experience implementing enterprise networking solutions.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand. The U.S. Department of Labor sponsored CareerOneStop's analysis indicates the certification is frequently mentioned in online job postings.

Click for external link to CareerOneStop's Credentials Center.

Navy Bucks

Credential voucher or reimbursement for credential exam, re-certification, or maintenance fee has been approved for payment through the Navy's Credential Program Office. To get a voucher request form, click Menu at the top of any page, then click "2 Complete Voucher and Apply" under Credentialing Steps.

GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click to go to the external link for GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

High

Highly attainable: Credential is related to the duties performed within the military occupation, the minimum education requirement = HS or less and/or minimum experience = 2 years or less experience and no additional requirements.

Medium

Moderate ease of attainment: Credential is related to the duties performed within the military occupation, the minimum education requirement = Associate's and/or prerequisite and/or minimum experience = more than 2 years and less than 10 years of experience.

Low

May be difficult to attain: Credential is related to the duties performed within the military occupation, the minimum education requirement is a Bachelor's degree, and/or minimum experience is 10 or more years.

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job

Registered Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. Go to the Apprenticeship Finder and enter career path or location to find apprenticeship opportunities.

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This credential has been accredited by:
This credential has been accredited by: