The Air University is primarily for intermediate education development. It offers a series of classes that must be taken in order and must be completed within 18 months. Students must also pass all seven written exams and complete four other exercises. The classes that must be taken, in order, are Challenges of Leadership and Command, National Security, Strategy and War, Expeditionary Air and Space Power, Joint Forces, Planning Joint Operations and Joint Air Operations.
Students can apply their certification in several ways. The Air University certificate also provides the student with Joint Professional Military Education (PME) Phase I credit, a first step toward a career in joint military operations. The certificate also earns students an Intermediate Developmental Education credit. The certificate can earn a student up to 21 hours of graduate school credit with the American Council of Education. And, the certificate can earn students close to military retirement additional credit points.
Military, civilian and international applicants are eligible to apply. Active or reserve airmen, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard and Civil Air Patrol officers must be graded 0-4 or higher. Civilians must be federally employed, have at least two years of government service and be graded at G-12 or higher. Federal employees at pay band 2 or higher are also eligible. Internationally based students must graded 0-4 major-selects or higher (military), or the civilian equivalent employed by the military of their country. They must also have an acceptable test grade in English as a Foreign Language.
The Air University offers two types of classes. Self-study is the most popular, since it allows the student to study at his own time and pace. Air University faculty is available to answer questions by phone or email. The seminar method is ideal for those who live on or near a military base that offers Air University courses. Seminars are formed when at least two students are enrolled and offer a more regimented approach to the coursework.
Air University supports its students in several ways. Online services include real-time information exchange through the Air University Student Information System, which allows students to access their coursework online, if they choose. Students can also use AUSIS to file course extensions and track their progress in the program. Students can communicate with the Air University Registrar's Office for personnel record information, completion certificates and transcripts. Air University also offers students technical and curriculum support.