Whether you’re looking to advance in your military career or prepare for a smooth transition to civilian life, the Department of Defense offers a range of resources to help you succeed. The DOD is dedicated to helping active-duty service members grow professionally and get ready for what comes next.
Although the DOD doesn’t directly cover the cost of certifications, it offers funding through several key programs that make these valuable credentials affordable — or even free. By taking advantage of these resources, service members can boost their skills and qualifications, opening new opportunities both in their military careers and in the civilian world.
Here are six essential resources along with examples of certifications they support:
Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL)
COOL is available across all military branches, and it helps service members find certifications and licenses that align with their military occupations. These programs provide funding to cover certification costs, making it easier to gain recognized credentials.
Examples of certifications covered by COOL:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): A cybersecurity certification that teaches you how to think like a hacker to protect military networks.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): A certification that demonstrates your ability to manage projects effectively.
- CompTIA Security+: An entry-level cybersecurity certification that provides foundational skills for securing networks.
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SkillBridge
SkillBridge allows active-duty service members to gain civilian work experience during their final 180 days of service through internships, apprenticeships, and training programs. This program can lead to certifications and practical skills that are valuable in civilian careers.
Examples of certifications sponsored by SkillBridge:
- FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot License: Allows you to operate drones commercially. Available through SkillBridge partnerships with industry leaders.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): A certification that validates your ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot networks. Offered through various SkillBridge programs.
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DANTES (Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support)
For more than 50 years, DANTES has provided no-cost education and career-planning programs to actively serving U.S. military members, including those in the National Guard, reserves, and Coast Guard. DANTES supports service members at every stage of their military career by offering access to certifications, college credit exams, and career planning resources.
Examples of certifications sponsored by DANTES:
- Certified Personal Trainer (CPT): Certifications like NASM-CPT (National Academy of Sports Medicine) that qualify you to become a personal trainer.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt: A process improvement certification that is valuable in both military and civilian roles.
Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
TAP provides service members with information, tools, and training to prepare them for civilian life after military service. TAP includes access to a variety of resources, including workshops and one-on-one counseling, that help service members explore certifications and career opportunities.
Examples of certifications sponsored by TAP:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): TAP can guide service members towards obtaining this advanced cybersecurity certification.
- SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional): TAP helps service members transition into HR roles, including obtaining relevant certifications.
Troops to Teachers
Troops to Teachers (TTT) helps transitioning service members and veterans become certified teachers. The program provides financial assistance for certification costs and helps participants find teaching jobs in schools across the country. TTT is funded and managed by both the departments of defense and education, ensuring service members have the support they need to transition into rewarding careers in education.
Examples of certifications sponsored by TTT:
- State Teacher Certification: Troops to Teachers helps cover the cost of state-specific teaching certifications required to become a K-12 teacher.
- Special Education Certification: Financial assistance is available for certifications in specialized teaching areas, such as Special Education.
Defense Acquisition University (DAU)
The Defense Acquisition University (DAU) provides training and certification programs for service members across all branches of the U.S. military, focusing on acquisition, technology, and logistics. DAU supports the professional development of military personnel in areas such as project management, contracting, and systems engineering. The certifications obtained through DAU are recognized throughout the Department of Defense and can be highly beneficial for those looking to advance in acquisition and logistics roles within the military or transition into related civilian careers.
Examples of certifications sponsored by DAU:
- Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM): A certification that demonstrates expertise in defense financial management.
- Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Certifications: Certifications available in various levels (I, II, III) across multiple acquisition career fields, such as program management, contracting, and logistics.
