Deadline approaching for Air University's online master's program Published Feb. 11, 2009 By Bryan Carnes Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) -- If you've been toying with the idea of getting your master's degree, time is running out on one of the best deals around and it is virtually free. The Air Command and Staff College is offering a distance learning master's program in Military Operational Art and Science for a select number of civilians and military members. The application deadline for the program is Feb. 20. The degree consists of 33 semester hours, broken down into 11 courses, which take two years to complete. The entire program is free, except for book and supply costs. Eligible candidates in the grades of GS-12 and GS-13, as well as Pay Band 2, can apply to the program through the Air Force Personnel Center using the one-page AF Form 4059. Once you've obtained the required signatures, scan the form and email it back to the global group box "AFPC/DPIF Leadership program" (afpc.dpi.ldrshpdev@randolph.af.mil). There are 150 slots open to Civil Service employees this year. The online program is fully accredited and graduates will receive the same degree as those individuals who complete the one-year resident course. Courses include Leadership in Warfare, Joint Air Operations, Applied Warfare Studies, and Practice of Command. Upon completion graduates also will earn credit in Intermediate Development Education and Joint Professional Military Education (phase I). The program is also designed to help Civil Service employees better understand and support the Air Force's Expeditionary Force. Mr. Joe Gyenes, of the Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command Directorate of Manpower, Personnel and Services, said this program is "highly regarded by AF senior leadership and presents a tremendous opportunity for eligible civilians" for advancement and education. Military members who are at least a major selectee, including Air National Guard and Air Reserve Technicians, may apply as well. Application procedures, as well as deadlines, may be obtained on the Air University website located on the Air Force Portal under the "Force Development" heading. A bachelor's degree is a prerequisite. People who have completed both a master's degree and intermediate development education are not eligible for admission. Do not apply directly to ACSC. If selected for the program, applicants will be notified by AFPC/DPIFA with further instructions. For more information contact AFPC/DPIFA at DSN 665-2524 (210-565-2524), contact your functional career field team at AFPC or visit ACSC's homepage www.au.af.mil/au/acsc and follow the links on the right side of the page. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page