Frequently Asked Questions

Disability-related Accommodations/Assistance

Who do I contact if I am a student with a disability and I am either:

1. Planning to take an in-resident or onsite class and anticipate needing accommodations or have questions about physical access?
2. Currently taking an online or virtual class and am having problems accessing course materials?

• dsca.wright-patt.dscu.list.registrars@mail.mil
• 937-713- 3330

Common Issues

I am having a problem uploading a file in Blackboard. What do I do?

1. Do not use MS Internet Explorer.
2. Make sure the file of the document you are trying to upload is named using only letters (A-Z), numbers (0-9) and underscores (_), with no spaces.
3. There should be a single period as part of the extension (.txt, .docx, etc.)

Where can I find my grades in Blackboard?
There are two grade locations in Blackboard. From within a course, click on Student Tools > Check Grades. This will give you your grades for this course only. To check your grades for all courses, click on the My Grades button in the Tools sections located on the Home page. If your grades are in neither of these locations, please contact your instructor to find out if he or she is posting grades within Blackboard.

General Information

What is Blackboard?
Blackboard is an internet-based software portal and Learning Management System (LMS) that supports online learning. DSCU uses Blackboard to deliver several online courses.

Which URL address should I use to enter Blackboard at DSCU?
To access Blackboard, you'll want to start at dscu.blackboard.com and click the "Blackboard Sign-In" button. Then after signing in, it will take you directly into Blackboard. If this doesn't work, verify you're enrolled in a course that utilizes Blackboard.

How To Access

How do I get to my courses in Blackboard?
Once you are in Blackboard, you will be able to access your courses from the "My Courses" box on the Home tab, or from the Course List box on the Courses tab.

Do DSCU courses require special access credentials and/or are they CAC-enabled?
Course materials and activities are delivered through the DSCU Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS) which is accessed via login through CornerStone OnDemand (CSOD). CSOD is a CAC-enabled site, but is also accessible with Username and password, using two-factor authentication, which requires a valid email address or SMS-capable phone number on your CSOD profile to provide a one-time use PIN.

Can I access my courses from my home computer?
Yes. CornerStone OnDemand and Blackboard are both accessible from any Internet-connected device.

I previously used DSCU Blackboard, but I now want to take another course. Do I need to request a new account?
If you already have a DSCU Blackboard account, you are an existing user; any new course you register for CornerStone OnDemand will automatically be added to your account and will show up in the "My Courses" list in Blackboard. You will have access to Blackboard 30 days prior to your class starting and until 14 days after the class has completed.

I forgot my user name and/or password. How do I retrieve it?
If you are not able to log in to CSOD, click the "Need help signing in?" button at the bottom of the login screen and follow the instructions.

Does my DSCU Blackboard account ever expire?
Yes and no. Access to Blackboard accounts will remain in place for the duration of the course you are taking plus 14 days. While we will remove access to the account, we will not remove the account from Blackboard unless we are exceeding our active user limit, at which point we will remove the accounts that have been dormant the longest.

Can I access a DSCU course on Blackboard again after I have completed it?
Maybe. If for any reason you are unable to access the DSCU Blackboard website after completing a course, please us using the email address at the top of the page.

Technical Requirements

Do I need any special software on my PC to run Blackboard?
No. Blackboard is accessible from any computer with a broadband connection to the internet and an approved operating system/internet browser (see below). Note that JavaScript and cookies should be enabled in your browser. You may also need software on your PC that is commonly used for files, such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Quick Time, and Adobe Acrobat Reader.

What are the approved operating systems/browsers for Blackboard?
Technical requirements that your computer must meet to use Blackboard can be found at help.blackboard.com/Learn/Student/Ultra/Getting_Started/Browser_Support.

Travel Vouchers

What are the Student Funding Changes for SSCS Courses coming in FY23?

As of FY23, DSCU will no longer create travel orders or issue travel lines of accounting (LOAs) for Security Cooperation courses except for Ministry of Defense Advisor (MoDA) Training courses and the Security Cooperation Officer Spouse course. If needed, DSCA will still provide funds to military departments and other agencies for the purpose of funding include student travel for Security Cooperation (SC) courses. Additional funds should be requested through the normal budget process, by submitting the appropriate funding request to DSCA Comptrollers.

Due to Financial Improvement and Audit Readiness (FIAR) Guidance compliance issues and Personally Identifiable Information (PII) security risks, the DSCU Budget Office is unable to continue administering student travel funds as we have in previous years. Since students of School of Security Cooperation Studies (SSCS) do not belong to DSCU organizationally (i.e. administratively), we are unable to require that students adhere to our policies and compliance procedures. As a result, we have no recourse to collect any missing documentation or recoup overpaid expenses in the event of an error.

Click here to view the Official Memorandum signed by DSCU President Dr. Celeste Gventer for further information regarding this change and how to request additional travel funds for SSCS courses if needed: Formal Notification of Student Funding Changes to the Services (Signed 6.1.2022)

NOTE: The Services, COCOMs, and Defense Agencies should begin planning for this change within their budget baselines during the Title 10 Budget Estimate Submission (BES) process and/or the Title 22 Security Assistance Budget Process Review (SAPBR).

Resident Advisor (MoDA) opportunities

What are types of deployments?
Most deployments are Temporary Change of Station (TCS), for no longer than 30-months. There are a limited number of TDY deployments. We now have some Term Hire positions, so look in USA Jobs for those postings (in planning for Georgia, Qatar, Kuwait).

Do you pay my salary?
No, we reimburse your parent organization for a back fill once you deploy, if requested by your agency.

How does my organization get paid for a backfill and my premium pay (entitlements)?
With our assistance your organization completes a GT&C FS-7600 to start any pay updates.

You need an active, non-expired government travel credit card.
You’ll need an active DTS profile/account (staying with your home station for timecard/HR (secondment), your DTS is cross-org’d to us for funding) A secondment (sometimes referred to as a “job rotation”) is a chance to temporarily work on a different team within your organization, or in some cases, for a different organization entirely.

Where is and are dates of training?
Strategic Advisor Training, conducted by DSCU, occurs at Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Indiana, three times a year. This training is three weeks long and typically followed by three weeks of Country Mission Studies, in D.C. (virtually at this time) once an Advisor Candidate is assigned a deployment mission.

Can I be promoted for this deployment?
No.

Is the tour accompanied?

In most cases the 24-month assignments can be accompanied, and in most cases pets can be with you as well. Our team works with the US Embassy.

Our team works with US Embassy personnel to identify the latest on child education capabilities as these vary by country. The program pays for your child’s education at a DoDEA accredited school or DoD School. Please visit Department of Defense Education Activity.

Background

What is the Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) Certification Program?
10 U.S.C. Section 384 requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish a Security Cooperation Workforce Development Program (SCWDP) which manages the Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) certification program. The SCWDP purpose is to ensure a certified, professional DoD SC workforce. The Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) administers the SCW Certification Program which includes mandatory training, SC experience, and continuous learning.

Why was the SCW Certification Program established?
A certified, professional SC workforce is critical to the United States National Defense Strategy. The Department of Defense (DoD) established the SCW Certification Program in response to The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 enacted 10 U.S.C. Section 384, "Department of Defense Security Cooperation Workforce Development." Section 384 requires the establishment of the DoD Security Cooperation Workforce Development Program (SCWDP) and identifies professional certification as a mandatory element of the program.

Contact Information

Who should I contact for more information?

If you have questions about registration please contactdsca.dscu.info@mail.mil.

If you have questions about certification please contact dsca.ncr.fo.mbx.scwdd@mail.mil

Who is my Component Certification Authority (CCA)?
Please contact the Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) at dsca.dscu.info@mail.mil to find out who serves as your CCA.

How do I find my SCWD-D admin?
Please contact the Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) at dsca.ncr.fo.mbx.scwdd@mail.mil to find out who serves as your SCWD-D admin.

Prior Experience

Is any of my previous security cooperation (sc) training or experience transferable?
A limited number of courses that were previously offered by the Defense Institute for Security Cooperation Studies (DISCS) are considered equivalent to the new Certification Program courses. Personnel who completed one or more of those legacy DISCS courses within a specified timeframe will receive credit for the equivalent Certification Program course. This process is automatic and does not need to be requested. The experience “clock” starts when you are entered into your SCW position in the Security Cooperation Workforce Development Database (SCWD-D). As long as you remain in a position with the same AoC at the same or higher certification level required for one consecutive year, you will receive credit for your experience. Members who were entered into the SCWD-D before January 1, 2021, have their experience requirement waived and may be certified as soon as they complete their required certification courses

Is there a "test-out" option for courses?
Some Certification Program courses have a “test-out” option. This option allows experienced Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) members registered for those courses to take a pre-test. A member who scores high enough on the pre-test will automatically receive credit for having completed that course without needing to take the course.

Program Elements

What are the program's certification levels and areas of concentration?

There are three standard levels of certification intended for GS-15/O-6 and below. There is an Executive-level certification option for security cooperation (SC) executives (including members of the Senior Executive Service, general officers/flag officers, GS-15/O-6 in key SC positions, and E-9).

1. Basic-level Certification: General knowledge and understanding of SC
2. Intermediate-level Certification: Focus is on developing technical knowledge and understanding of one Area of Concentration (AoC) in the context of broader SC
3. Advanced-level Certification: Focus is on increased technical mastery of one AoC in the context of broader SC
4. Executive-level Certification: Focus is on a broad understanding of SC and its strategic application to achieve defense and national security objectives

Each SC workforce position will be assigned oe of the following AoCs:

1. SC Planning, Oversight, & Execution Management
2. SC Case Life Cycle Management
3. Security Cooperation Office Operations & Management
4. SC Execution Support Management
5. SC Acquisition Management

How does a workforce member know his/her position/billet's certification level, area of concentration, and required courses?
All workforce members should discuss this with their supervisor and visit the Certification Center on the DSCU.mil website to learn their individual certification requirements. Workforce members can learn more about and register for courses on the Course Listing page of the DSCU.mil website.

What are the training completion deadlines?
The following timelines apply for completion of certification levels:

• Basic-level Certification: One year to complete all required basic-level courses
• Intermediate-level Certification: One year to complete basic-level courses and 2 years to complete all required intermediate-level courses (3 years total)
• Advanced-level Certification: 3 years to complete basic- and intermediate-level courses, and 2 years to complete all required advanced-level courses (5 years total)
• Executive-level Certification: Three years to complete all required executive-level courses

The above timelines begin at the Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) publication date for existing SCW members or the date a new member is assigned to a SCW position.

How do Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) members meet certification requirements?

To be eligible for certifcation in the appropriate SC Area of Concentration (AoC) at the appropriate certifcation level, a SCW member must:

1. Complete all required training through the Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) or its designated affiliates
2. Obtain one year of experience at the required level and SC AoC for their position
3. Be in good standing with the program

SCW members must maintain good standing in the Certification Program. SCW members who complete required courses by the course completion timeline and meet the continuous learning requirement are in good standing with the program. Once obtained, the SCW member must maintain it by meeting continuous learning requirements and thus remain in good standing.

SCW members do not need to request to be certified. Once eligible, the status is automatically updated, and their Component Certification Authority will see that they are eligible for certification in the Certification Center.

What are the Continous Learning requirements?

Continuous learning events must be focused on security cooperation (SC)-related topics for the hours to count toward the requirement. Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) members should submit their proposed activities to their supervisor for approval. A list of appropriate topics is maintained on the Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) website. Completion of certification courses counts toward the requirement.

Basic-level: 20 hours of SC-related developmental opportunities every 2 years, including completion of an annual SC update course offered by DSCU. Intermediate- and advanced-level: 20 hours of SC-related developmental opportunities every 2 years, including completion of an annual SC update course offered by DSCU. At least 12 of the 20 hours must be focused on maintaining currency in an Area of Concentration. Executive-level: 20 hours of SC-related developmental opportunities every 2 years, including completion of an annual SC update course offered by DSCU.

Can certification expire?
Certification does not expire once achieved as long as the Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) member remains in an SCW position and maintains good standing with the Certification Program by completing all continuous learning requirements.

What happens if a person leaves the Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW)?
Former members of the SCW are not required to maintain certification. However, those who were certified and in good standing with the program may continue to complete continuous learning requirements if they wish. A record of training completed for certification is maintained for all former members of the SCW. If the former member returns to the SCW, they will retain credit for courses previously completed.

What happens if a Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) member fails to achieve certficication or maintain good standing?
If an SCW member does not complete their certification requirements within the required deadlines or if they do not satisfy the continuous learning requirements after certification, the member will not be in good standing with the program and may be subject to adverse personnel action by their Department of Defense (DoD) Components. Certification is a condition of employment for civilians and an order for service members. This is consistent with other DoD certification programs.

SC Workforce

Who must be certified?

All members of the Department of Defense (DoD) Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) are required to obtain an appropriate security cooperation (SC) certification, and they must maintain certification as long as they remain in an SC position.

10 U.S.C Section 384(h) 1-6 defines the DoD SCW as:

1. Members of the armed forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense working in the security cooperation organizations of United States missions overseas.
2. Members of the armed forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense in the geographic combatant commands and functional combatant commands responsible for planning, monitoring, or conducting security cooperation activities.
3. Members of the armed forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense in the military departments performing security cooperation activities, including activities in connection with the acquisition and development of technology release policies.
4. Other military and civilian personnel of Defense Agencies and Field Activities who perform security cooperation activities.
5. Personnel of the Department of Defense who perform assessments, monitoring, or evaluations of security cooperation programs and activities of the Department of Defense.
6. Other members of the armed forces or civilian employees of the Department of Defense who contribute significantly to the security cooperation programs and activities of the Department of Defense by virtue of their assigned duties.

Which Billets/positions are exempt from Security Cooperation Workforce Development Program (SCWDP)?

The following categories of billets/positions are exempt from Security Cooperation Workforce Development Program (SCWDP) certification requirements:

1. Members of the armed forces and DoD civilian employees in operational units engaged in intermittent, occasional, or incidental interactions with the security establishment of a foreign country, not substantially accountable or responsible for achieving a purpose or purposes defined by Title 10 of the United States Code, Section 301 (10 U.S.C. 301).
2. DoD attorneys, since they are subject to separate professional licensing requirements. However, SC training opportunities should be extended to attorneys when such training is relevant to their duties, and SC-related training may be made mandatory at the discretion of the supervising attorney.
3. Private sector employees providing services/support under contract with the DoD, although there may be SC-related training requirements associated with the functions that some contractors perform in support of DoD SC programs and activities. Those requirements should be articulated/delineated in the contract terms.

NOTE: There may still be SC-related training requirements associated with the categories of positions listed above. Those requirements will be identified by the individual DoD components or in other DoD guidance.

Are DoD employees not in an SC position and/or contractors eligible for certification?

Only members of the Department of Defense (DoD) Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) as defined in 10 U.S.C Section 384(h) have certification requirements. Personnel who are not in a DoD SCW position cannot be certified, but they can still register for and complete training. Online distance learning is generally available to all. However, registration for resident courses is prioritized per the position below:

Priority for registration of resident courses:

1. DoD personnel assigned to Key SCW Positions taking a course that is required for certification.
2. DoD personnel assigned to Key SCW positions taking a course that is not required for certification but that is deemed necessary by the DoD Component based on the developmental needs of the person to fill the Key SCW position.
3. DoD personnel not in Key SCW positions taking a course required for certification.
4. Locally Employed Staff taking a course requested by the relevant Combatant Command.
5. Contractors taking a course required by the terms of the contract.
6. DoD personnel assigned to SCW positions (but not to Key SCW positions) taking a course for any other purpose.
7. Interagency partner personnel.

Certain non-SCW personnel perform important SC functions but are not part of the statutory SCW including, but not limited to, civilian employees of the United States Coast Guard, foreign service nationals, and locally employed staff. Those personnel are not eligible for certification under this program. Instead, DSCA may grant them a certificate of equivalency when they meet the training and experience requirements for certification in a particular AoC and certification level.

A certificate of equivalency documents that the individual meets the mandatory training and experience requirement for certification in a particular AoC and certification level. While not an SC certification per se, a certificate of equivalency will have commensurate value within the SCW equivalent to the statutory certification required under this certification program.

What are Key Security Cooperation Workforce positions?

Key Security Cooperation Workforce billets or positions are those with duties and responsibilities that require the incumbent to issue guidance, make decisions, or direct security cooperation (SC) activities that directly affect the execution of SC programs or activities. Key SC positions and billets are inherently governmental. There is no grade or rank requirement and no specified nor prescribed certification level for Key SC positions.

Travel

If I need to travel to take courses, who is responsible for the funding?
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) will centrally-fund Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) courses taken by Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) members to achieve a required level of certification. If funds are available, DSCA will centrally fund DSCU courses that a DoD component requires a SC Workforce member take, but not required for certification. DSCA will not fund discretionary security cooperation (SC) training, non-SC training or training taken for continuous learning credit.

General Information

What is CornerStone OnDemand (CSOD)?
Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) is a learning/student management system that provides DSCU’s students with a single interface to manage their learning experience, including course registration and completion and access to student records.

Why did DSCU deploy Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD)?
Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) improves the student experience, especially to maximize efficiency and flexibility for the online learner. The single point of entry reduces time spent logging in as well as the time to manually request certificates and other student records. Upon registration in the CSOD learning management system, students are able to access online courses immediately. This feature supports maximum flexibility to meet the needs of DSCU students, while maintaining continuity with Blackboard for both student and faculty learning experience.

Which URL address should I use to enter Blackboard at DSCU?
Please use dau.csod.com to login to CSOD.

What if I have trouble logging in to Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD)?
If you are not able to log in to CSOD, click the "Need help signing in?" button at the bottom of the login screen. If you still have difficulties, you will likely need to submit a System Authorization Access Request (SAAR) to request an account.

Why do I see "DAU" on some of the Cornerstone pages?
While the login page is through DAU, this should not affect access to CSOD and will take you to DSCU content after logging in with your account.

What if I see the DAU Landing Page (red-themed) instead of the DSCU Landing Page (blue-themed)?
If you are listed in CSOD under the wrong sub-organization within DSCA, you can submit a "User Record Update Request" from the landing page in CSOD to make the necessary adjustments. Even while under the DAU hierarchy, you can register for and take DSCU classes, as we share classes within CSOD.

What is the benefit to students of Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD)?
Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) offers a one-stop-shop student experience, allowing students to access course information, register for courses, complete courses, and access their student record via a single sign-in system interface. Upon registration in the CSOD learning management system, students will be able to access online courses immediately in Blackboard. This feature supports maximum flexibility to meet the needs of DSCU students, while maintaining continuity with Blackboard for both student and faculty learning experience.

When was Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) deployed?
Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) was officially deployed June 30. After June 30, students register for all courses via Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD). Using their CSOD CAC-enabled login, students are able to access and complete courses as well as to access their student record, including accessing and downloading certificates instead of having to request those records from the Registrar.

What is different for student users now that Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) is deployed?
Now that Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) is deployed, DSCU students use CSOD as the single point of entry to manage their learning experience. Rather than having to access multiple systems with separate logins to register, access courses, and view student records, students are able to complete all of these actions via CSOD login.

Does Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) replace Blackboard?
No. Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) is the single point of entry system that manages the learning experience, inclusive of Blackboard, where the student will continue to take classes.

Will I need to create a new login and password to access Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD)?
Yes. Students will need to register in Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD). Most students will be able to use their CAC to access CSOD for DSCU School of SC Studies courses.

Why are my previously-taken classes missing in Cornerstone onDemand?
While transferring student records from the old student management system to Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD), only classes that were completed by a student with an EDIPI on file in the old system were able to be migrated to CSOD. If a student can identify what records should have been migrated for them, we can often verify them and migrate them manually.

Migration Issues

If I didn’t complete a course on Blackboard before June 30th, what will happen?
If the online course is not completed by June 30, all progress will be lost and the course will have to be started over from the beginning through Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD). Instructor-led courses and virtual instructor-led courses that were in progress during the transition period were completed and recorded in CSOD.

Will I get two usernames and passwords, one for Blackboard and a different one for Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD)?
No. You will have access to both Blackboard and CSOD with the same login. After successfully logging in at dau.csod.com, you will be able to choose either Blackboard or CSOD. For most personnel, they will login using their CAC/PIV. (They will also have a CSOD ID and Password). Non-CAC/PIV personnel will be able to log in using a CSOD ID/PW.

Can I go directly to the Blackboard login page without logging into Cornerstone OnDemand (CSOD) first? Will the address to the Blackboard login page remain the same?
Yes. You can go to the DSCU Blackboard login page, click on the “CornerStone OnDemand” button, which will take you to the id.dau.edu authentication page, and then be automatically returned to Blackboard once authenticated.

Field Studies Program

What is the U.S. Field Studies Program (FSP)?
In accordance with DoD Instruction 5410.17, United States Field Studies Program (FSP) for International Military and Civilian Students and Military-Sponsored Visitors, commanders of DoD and MILDEP installations are responsible for establishing, operating, and administering a program for international military and civilian students attending security cooperation sponsored training at their installations. This program is designed to complement formal training and provide students a balanced understanding of U.S. institutions, goals, and ideals, and to increase their awareness of how these reflect the U.S. commitment to the basic principles of internationally recognized human rights.

Are their funds available to for the Field Studies Program (FSP)?
Yes. Costs for conducting this program are generated by the tuition rate charges for all programs that fund international training. But, funds supporting the FSP shall not be expended to pay for alcoholic beverages or entertainment expenses for activities that are substantially of a recreational character.

What is the relationship of the former DoD Informational Program (DoDIP) to the new U.S. Field Studies Program (FSP)?
With the publishing of DoD Instruction 5410.17 and update to the SAMM, the FSP replaces the former DoDIP.

What does the Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM) say about the FSP?
See SAMM, Chapter 10.18

Are there implementing instructions for FSP in the Joint Security Cooperation Education and Training (JSCET) regulation?
Yes, see JSCET Chapter 11

Case Development: A Guide to Preparing Your LOA & Off-Line Documentation for Transmittal to CWD

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?
Within the Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), Chapter 5, FMS Case Development, addresses preparation, quality control, and coordination of LOA documents. Separately, the Management of Security Cooperation (Green Book) addresses the role of the IA and CWD in LOA development respectively in Chapter 5.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Civilian Diplomatic Attire

Does DoD pay me to purchase a wardrobe for civilian diplomatic attire?
Most SCOs perform their daily duties in civilian clothes. DoD policy provides that, when competent authority (e.g., the US Ambassador) directs military personnel to dress in civilian clothing more than half the time when performing official duty, a Civilian Clothing Allowance may be authorized. This allowance is normally issued as a one-time, lump-sum payment to you.

Where can I find the official policy on civilian clothing allowance?

• DODI 1338.18, Armed Forces Clothing Monetary Allowance Procedures
• DOD 7000.14-R, Volume 7A, Chapter 29, "Clothing Monetary Allowances

This information is further addressed in DSCU's learning guide SCO Personal Entitlements, including links to the documents above.

What if I am not entitled to a civilian clothing allowance?
You can raise the issue to your combatant command staff for resolution. In any event, you are expected to acquire, maintain and use an appropriate wardrobe that will help you to professionally represent the United States in your role as a member of a U.S. embassy country team.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Congressional Notifications for FMS

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?
The primary reference is the Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), Chapter 5.5. You may also email DSCA with your question at DSCA-CON-NOT@dsca.mil.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Contracting for FMS

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Dealing With The Press

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?
See DoDD 5122.05,Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs (ASD(PA)), Enclosure 2, Principles of Information. This document is available under the Resources tab in the course. Additionally, SCOs are encouraged to consult as necessary with the Public Affairs Officers in their embassies and at their combatant command headquarters.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Ethics for SC Workforce

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?

The primary resource for ethical standards applicable to all DoD employees is the Department of Defense Standards of Conduct Office (SOCO) website at dodsoco.ogc.osd.mil.

The SOCO website contains the Joint Ethics Regulation, DoD 5500.7-R, which is a “single source of standards of ethical conduct and ethics guidance, including direction in the areas of financial and employment disclosure systems, enforcement, and training.” At the SOCO website, you can also subscribe online to the SOCO News List for updates.

For travel-related issues, you can also consult the Joint Federal Travel Regulations, Volume 1 (JFTR) for uniformed service members or the Joint Travel Regulations, Volume 2 (JTR) for DoD civilian personnel. Both regulations are available online here.

Finally, you can consult your ethics counselor in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) office of your CCMD or other parent organization

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Insider Threat Awareness Brief for International Military Students (IMS)

Are there supplementary materials available for this learning guide?

The following supplementary materials are available for this learning guide:

IMS Insider Threat Awareness Briefing Facilitation Guide
A facilitator guide for the IMSO with questions to ask the IMS to generate discussion.

Insider Risk Reporting for IMS (handout and/or poster)
Fill out Insider Threat POC information for your local installation and provide to IMS as a handout and/or posters that can be displayed around the schoolhouse.

Transcript of the video narration in English
Provide to the IMS

Additional IMSO Insider Threat Resources
Additional Insider Threat resources, job aids and eLearning opportunities from the Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE).

International Military Student Briefing

Why is this training necessary?
All international military students who attend training at DoD schools and elsewhere in the United States are required to receive an orientation before their departure from their home country. This requirement is documented in the JSCET (Joint Security Cooperation Education and Training), also known as AR 12-15, SECNAVINST 4950.4B, and AFI 16-105. Specifically, Chapter 10, paragraph 9 (“In-country predeparture briefing”) requires this training and indicates that DSCU has provided a standard briefing for general use. Additionally, the same paragraph provides an outline of the required topics for the predeparture briefing, which are addressed in this learning guide.

What if the student has other questions?
The student should refer other questions to the Security Cooperation Organization (SCO) before departure. The DSCU learning guide does not cover all situations.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Combined Exercises

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Contract Programs Learning Guide

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Humanitarian Assistance, Foreign Disaster Relief, and Humanitarian and Civic Assistance

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Introduction to the U.S. Government Interagency Community

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Security Cooperation (SC) Programs

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Security Cooperation Legislation and Policy

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: Security Cooperation Office Roles, Responsibilities, and Relationships

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Introduction to SC Policy, Programs, and Stakeholders: U.S. Embassy Country Team

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Letter of Request (LOR) Writing Guide

What other resources are available to help draft a complete and accurate LOR?
First, check the online SAMM, especially Chapter 5.1, "Letter of Request Submissions." This is always the official guidance to the partner nations. DSCU’s Green Book, Chapter 5, “Foreign Military Process” provides a thorough outline of FMS including the request phase which culminates in the submission of an LOR. The Green Book is also available online. Finally, the Military Departments have online checklists for most major weapon systems.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

LOA Interpretation Guide

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?
Within the Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), a sample LOA can be found at Figure C5.F3 and an explanation of the LOA information and codes can be found at Figure C5.F5. Separately, the Management of Security Cooperation (Green Book) addresses the FMS process and the types of LOAs respectively in Chapters 5 and 6.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Logistics

Where can I find more information on this topic?

• The Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), Chapters 6 & 7
• The Management of Security Cooperation (Green Book), Chapters 10 and 11

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Military Standard Requisition and Issue Procedures (MILSTRIP) for FMS

Does DoD have any formal training on MILSTRIP for the FMS system?

MILSTRIP procedures for FMS are different than those for DoD. DSCU provides MILSTRIP training that is specific to FMS materiel transfers. Most DoD schools do not provide this training. Practical training on MILSTRIP is available through two DSCU courses:

• SCM-CS (Logistics Support) Course, open to US Government, US defense industry, and international purchaser personnel.
• SCM-IL (International Purchaser Logistics) Course, which is open only to international purchasers.

What if I have a MILSTRIP question?
You can use the "Ask an Instructor" feature on the DSCU website. If you have a question on a specific FMS supply document, you should contact the relevant FMS case manager.

Where can I obtain copies of the reference material mentioned in the Learning Guide?
DSCU publishes the Military Standard Requisition and Issue Procedures for Foreign Military Sales reference guide which can be downloaded from the Publications Tab of the DSCU website. A list of the formal DoD publications which govern and explain MILSTRIP and related logistics functions is found at Appendix X.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

MILSTRIP Translator

Does DoD have any formal training on MILSTRIP for the FMS system?

MILSTRIP procedures for FMS are different than those for DoD. DSCU provides MILSTRIP training that is specific to FMS materiel transfers. Most DoD schools do not provide this training. Practical training on MILSTRIP is available through two DSCU courses:

• SCM-CS (Logistics Support) Course, open to US Government, US defense industry, and international purchaser personnel.
• SCM-IL (International Purchaser Logistics) Course, which is open only to international purchasers.

The "MILSTRIP for FMS" learning guide on the DSCU website is also available as a reference and for non-formal (no official credit) training.

What if I have a MILSTRIP question?
You can use the "Ask an Instructor" feature on the DSCU website. If you have a question on a specific FMS supply document, you should contact the relevant FMS case manager.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Overseas Crisis Readiness

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?
To prepare for a U.S. embassy overseas, the Department of State offers an online resource entitled Foreign Service Assignment Notebook: What Do I Do Now? Note that some of the mentioned entitlements and benefits are unique to foreign service personnel. DoD personnel may have different entitlements or responsibilities, depending on the issue. See also the DSCU learning guide "SCO Personal Entitlements."

Are there special requirements for security or emergency preparedness at the embassy to which I will be assigned?
Contact your SCO sponsor or the Community Liaison Office (CLO) in the gaining embassy.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Personnel and Administration

Where can I find more information on this topic?

• DoDD 5105.75, Department of Defense Operations at US Embassies
• The Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM)
• The Management of Security Cooperation (DSCU Green Book)

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Protocol

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

SC-001 Security Cooperation Familiarization

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?

• Read the Introduction to Security Cooperation course description page.
• The Security Cooperation Management (Green Book), Chapter 1, Introduction to Security Cooperation provides an introduction.
• The Joint Publication 3-20, Security Cooperation, Chapter 1, Security Cooperation in Strategic Context provides additional detail.
• The Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), Chapter 1, Security Cooperation Overview and Relationships provides additional detail.

SCIP Training: Adhoc Reports Demonstration

Are there transcripts available for this learning guide?
Yes, click here to view the transcripts for this learning guide.

SCIP Training: Case Report Financial Demonstration

Are there transcripts available for this learning guide?
Yes, click here to view the transcripts for this learning guide.

SCIP Training: Finding Cases of Interest Demonstration

Are there transcripts available for this learning guide?
Yes, click here to view the transcripts for this learning guide.

SCIP Training: FMR Case Sheets Demonstration

Are there transcripts available for this learning guide?
Yes, click here to view the transcripts for this learning guide.

SCIP Training: Interim Closed Case Financial Demonstration

Are there transcripts available for this learning guide?
Yes, click here to view the transcripts for this learning guide.

Security Cooperation Organization (SCO) Personal Entitlements

Does DSCU track my completion of this training?
No. DSCU does not track this training, nor does it schedule class time during SCM-O. Students are encouraged to take this training on their own time as soon as possible to plan for their move.

How can I get in touch with the SCO to which I am assigned?
Your SCO should have designated a sponsor who is responsible for contacting you. If this has not happened, you can contact the desk officer for your country in your geographic combatant command (CENTCOM in Tampa, EUCOM and AFRICOM in Stuttgart, PACOM in Honolulu, SOUTHCOM in Miami, or NORTHCOM at Peterson AFB, Colorado). You may be scheduled for an orientation visit to your combatant command en route to your SCO. This may occur before or after you attend DSCU.

Are the entitlements described in this learning guide applicable to all SCOs?
Not necessarily. It depends on the country, COCOM, and other factors. This learning module has been designed to address most entitlements and circumstances for SCO personnel, but each US embassy and SCO has a unique operating and living environment.

What if I am assigned to the staff of a combatant command (CCMD) instead of a SCO?
It is still useful for you to review this presentation, as it will explain to you the entitlements and requirements of those SCO personnel whom you are supporting from the CCMD headquarters.

Training Plan Analysis

Where can I obtain more information on this topic?

• The Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), Chapter 10
• The Management of Security Cooperation (Green Book), Chapter 14 and 19

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Understanding the MAPAD

Does DoD have any formal training on MAPAD for the FMS system?

MAPAD procedures for FMS are different than those for DoD. DSCU provides MAPAD training that is specific to FMS materiel transfers. Most DoD schools do not provide this training. Practical training on MAPAD is available through two DSCU courses:

• SCM-CS (Logistics Support) Course, open to US Government, US defense industry, and international purchaser personnel.
• SCM-IL (International Purchaser Logistics) Course, which is open only to international purchasers.

What if I have a question?
You can use the "Ask an Instructor" feature on the DSCU website. If you have a question on a specific FMS supply document, you should contact the relevant FMS case manager.

Where can I obtain copies of the reference material mentioned in the Learning Guide?
DSCU publishes the Military Standard Requisition and Issue Procedures for Foreign Military Sales (Chapter 5) reference guide and the FMS User’s Guide to the Military Assistance Program Address Directory (MAPAD) which can be downloaded from the Publications Tab of the DSCU website. A list of the formal DoD publications which govern and explain MAPAD and related logistics functions is found at Appendix Y.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

Visitor Management for SCOs

What is the SCO’s responsibility in general for DoD visitors?
Under the authority of both the U.S. Ambassador and the SDO/DATT, and in compliance with the DoD Foreign Clearance Guide, the SCO must manage its official visitors so that their presence, activities, and mission support United States security cooperation and foreign policy goals with the host nation. As a minimum, official visits should not detract from these goals. This requires the SCO to carefully coordinate its official visitors with host nation counterparts and the U.S. embassy country team.

What about DoD aircraft clearances and U.S. Navy ship visits?
These are typically the responsibility of the local Defense Attache Office (DAO), which also works under the authority of the SDO/DATT. However, the SCO must remain cognizant of these activities as they interface with – or support -- its security cooperation mission.

What about visits by host nation personnel to CONUS?
The DoD Foreign Clearance Guide does not apply here. Guidance stems from other policy documents, including DoDD 5230.20. In general, official foreign visitors to DoD installations and organizations must have an approved request through the Foreign Visits System (FVS) or, if they are on student status, have an Invitational Travel Order (ITO) issued by the SCO.

Who do I contact if I have any technical issues with this learning guide?
Go to the LMS Login & Help page for technical assistance.

International SAN (ISAN)

What is the International Security Assistance Network (ISAN)?
The ISAN is a portal on the internet that allows access to the Partner Security Cooperation -Training Management System (P SC-TMS) which allows Partner Nation individuals, working with the Security Cooperation Office (SCO), to view their Standardized Training List (STL) and the Training – Military Articles and Services Listing (T-MASL).

What is the ISAN URL address?
The ISAN URL address is https://san.dsca.mil/iSAN/

How do I get an ISAN account?
The SCO in country must sponsor the Partner Nation user for an ISAN account by submitting an ISAN Account request to DSCU through the SAN. For the SCO to sponsor and request an ISAN account for a Partner Nation User the SCO must follow the below steps.

• Log into the SAN
• Hover over User Information
• Select, Request New ISAN User
• Fill out the form and submit it

Be prepared to define what access the Partner Nation user is to have:

• Access to STL data (for a specific military service only or all services)
• Access to T-MASL data, and which price categories apply to your country.

DSCU will create the account and send the information to the Partner Nation user.

Do I have to change my ISAN password? When? How?
Your ISAN password does need to be changed at least every 60 days. To change your password:

1. Log into the ISAN and click User Information, and then Change Your Password and Other User Info.
2. Enter your new password in the Password field. Your password must be 9-15 characters in length and must contain at least two each of the following: upper-case, lower-case, numerals and special characters.
3. Confirm the new password in the Confirm Password field.
4. Click Save/Submit

You will receive an e-mail notification 10 days before your password will expire.

Is there a course of instruction that teaches the use of the ISAN?
The DSCU International Partner Security Coopteration Finance and Training Management Course (IPTN-202) (T-MASL D178270) will provide instruction on the use of the I-SAN and Partner SC-TMS.

SCIP Training: Security Cooperation Information Portal (SCIP)

What is the Security Cooperation Information Portal (SCIP)?
A DoD-managed web-based system that provides access to FMS and security cooperation case-related data extracts as well as numerous other capabilities. The SCIP assembles current international logistics and financial management information from FMS legacy systems CISIL, SAMIS, CMCS, MISIL, DSAMS and DIFS, and provides that consolidated information to the purchaser and DoD users in a common format. It provides a secure avenue for information exchange and data assurance.

Who are the primary users of SCIP?
FMS case managers who have need of FMS case information will be interested in the SCIP system. All Security Cooperation Offices (SCOs) who have established FMS cases will also want to use the system.

Is there a point of contact where I can get further information or assistance on the SCIP system?
Yes. Email dsca.sciphelp@mail.mil or phone 1-833-DSCA-IMT (1-833-372-2468).

What is the SCIP URL address?
The SCIP URL address is www.scportal.us

Do I need special software on my PC to access the SCIP?
No. All you need is a web browser such as Edge, Firefox, or Chrome.

Many times, when trying to access internet sites with a ".mil" address, I get error messages saying I am not allowed access. Will I have the same problem accessing SCIP?
The SCIP system is on a .mil platform but is reachable from most networks. There is no restriction to access from .mil networks only. If you have an account, you should be able to access the system.

What DSCA policy memos outline the procedures for requesting, initial issue, and follow-on replacement of SCIP tokens?
The relevant policy memos are DSCA 03-11 and DSCA 06-30. You can find them on the DSCA E-SAMM home page at samm.dsca.mil. Hover on “Policy Memos” and select “All Policy Memos”.

Where can I get more information about SCIP and SCIP Communities?
To get more information about SCIP and SCIP Communities, please review the following policy memos at samm.dsca.mil (Hover on “Policy Memos” and select “All Policy Memos”.):

• DSCA 14-11, Security Cooperation Information Portal (SCIP) Electronic Token Distribution and Replacement Policy
• DSCA 11-58, Policy Update Regarding Security Cooperation Information Portal (SCIP) Account Access for Security Cooperation Officers (SCOs)
• DSCA 11-16, Security Cooperation Management Suite (SCMS) Requirements
• DSCA 03-11, Enrollment for the Security Cooperation Information Portal (SCIP)

Security Assistance Network (SAN)

I get an error when accessing the SAN login page. What do I do?

When accessing the SAN login page, if you receive an error page "The security certificate presented by this website was not issued by a trusted certificate authority" while attempting to log on to the SANWeb, you will need to update your Internet browser's certificates. Complete instructions for doing this are available by clicking the link entitled Certificate Instructions below.

Certificate Instructions

What is the SAN Web URL address?
san.dsca.mil/SANweb

How do i get access to the SAN?
For instructions on how to request a SAN account, go to the SAN login page and click the link titled "How to Request a SANweb Account"

Do I have to change my SAN password? When? How?
Your SAN password does need to be changed at least every 60 days. To change your password, log into the SAN and click User Information > Change Your Password and Other User Info. Enter your new password in the Password field. Confirm the new password in the Confirm Password field. Click Save/Submit. Your password must be 9-15 characters in length and must contain at least two each of the following: upper-case, lower-case, numerals and special characters). You will receive an e-mail notification 10 days before your password will expire.

Can I register my Common Access Card (CAC) with the SAN?
Yes, once you have been given an SAN account, there are instructions on the log in page for how to register your CAC with the SAN. Once you register your CAC with the SAN, you may use your CAC and CAC pin to log in instead of the username and password. However, it is recommended that you still update your Password every 60 days to keep it active in case you are at a computer that does not have a CAC reader.

Are there instrctions for SAN User Adminstrators, to show them how to accomplish user registration?
Yes. Log into the SAN and click Libraries > General > SAN User Group Administrator User's Guide - 30 Apr 2014