College of Distance Education and Training

ENLISTED college distance education program SEMINARs

The Marine Corps University’s Enlisted College Distance Education Program is a cornerstone of professional military education for our enlisted leaders. This program offers carefully structured curriculums, designed to foster not only tactical proficiency, but also critical thinking, ethical leadership, and a deep understanding of Marine Corps doctrine. A key benefit of this distance education format is the ability for Marines to fulfill their professional development requirements without extended absences from their units and jobs, allowing commands to retain their high-performing personnel and maintain operational readiness. By investing in the development of our NCOs and SNCOs, we empower them to excel in their current roles, prepare for future responsibilities, and ultimately enhance the operational effectiveness of their units. Successful completion of these courses is a key indicator of leadership potential and a vital step towards career progression.

Which Seminars are Offered for Enlisted Marines?

Sergeants School Seminar Program (SSSP): Think of Sergeants School as the next step in your leadership journey after promotion to Sergeant. It’s designed to prepare you for the responsibilities of a Sergeant – leading Marines, reinforcing standards, and taking ownership of your team’s success. The seminar builds on the foundational knowledge you gained earlier in your career, focusing on practical skills like counseling, mentoring, and making sound decisions under pressure. It's about transitioning from being a skilled Marine to being a skilled leader of Marines.

SNCO Leadership School Seminar (SLSSP): Once you’re a Staff Sergeant or Gunnery Sergeant, the SNCO Leadership School Seminar is where you refine your leadership abilities at a higher level. This seminar focuses on strategic thinking, planning, and leading at the platoon and company levels. You’ll dive deeper into topics like warfighting, logistics, and personnel management, preparing you to advise commanders and lead larger teams. It’s about becoming a seasoned leader capable of shaping the future of your Marines and the Corps.

Seminar Options: How They Work

Weekday Seminars: You’ll meet virtually or at a local base one evening a week for 15 weeks. Each session lasts about 3 hours, and you'll have about 3-6 hours of homework each week (reading, quizzes, presentations).

Online Seminars: Everything is done online through Moodle on the Marine Corps eLearning Ecosystem (MCeLE). Over a period of 15 weeks, you will have weekly assignments taking about 3-6 hours.

Weekend Seminars: While primarily designed for Ready Reserve Marines, Active Duty and Active Reserve may also attend, unfunded. You’ll meet for a full weekend (Saturday & Sunday) once a month for four months. Like the other options, you’ll have weekly homework (3-6 hours) throughout the 15-week course. During the weekend sessions, you’ll discuss what you’ve been studying as a class through discussions led by your instructor.

Important Note for Reserve Marines: Weekend seminars are fully funded by Marine Forces Reserve, meaning travel and lodging are covered. Weekday and Online seminars are not funded for Reserve Marines.

When are Seminars Offered?

The weekday and online seminars are offered three times a year, starting in July, October, and February. Weekend seminars are offered twice a year, in the Fall and Spring.

How Does CDET Fit It All Together?

CDET works with you to find a schedule that both fits your needs and allows everyone to complete the required materials. These seminars run on a set schedule, meaning everyone in a particular seminar type (such as the weekday Sergeants School Seminar) will be working on the same lessons at the same time.

These aren’t self-paced courses. You’ll be graded on how you participate in class, your homework, quizzes, presentations, and online discussions. You’ll need a computer and internet access to participate. Online portions will be completed via Moodle on MCeLE.

When Are Seminars Available?

Weekday and Online Seminar Schedule for AY27

Check the latest message, MARADMIN 110/26 for specific dates and requirements.

Weekend Seminar Schedule

Specific weekend session dates vary by region, but weekend seminars will be scheduled to run twice a year, once in the Fall and once in the Spring.

How Do I Sign Up?

Here’s how to enroll:

Be eligible: You need to be grade appropriate and meet Marine Corps physical standards.

Complete the online course: You’ll need to finish the required online course on MCeLE before you can start the seminar (EPME5000 for SSSP, EPME6000 for SLSSP).

Get your command’s approval: Your commander needs to nominate you for the seminar.

Have a computer and internet: You'll need access to a computer with a webcam and microphone.

For Weekend Seminars:

You will send your completed nomination package to the CDET Reserve Liaison Office (MCU_CDET_RLO@usmcu.edu). This package includes the CEME command screening checklist, a signed agreement of training , the Student Information Sheet, and your EMPE completion certificate.

Upon enrollment, you and your unit MROWS POC will be provided with additional instructions on how to complete the orders process for the weekend sessions.

For Weekday & Online Seminars:

You and your training manager submit a request through MCeLE (course codes 5500 or 6800). For a step-by-step tutorial, please see the videos below. The first video is for the student requesting a seat, and the second is for a unit MCeLE Training Manager to complete the command recommendation.

Submit a CEME command screening checklist to your SgtMaj or CO for approval. You will need to provide a copy of the signed checklist to your CDET campus administrator once it is completed.

Seminar Registration

Lastly…

Review the Enlisted PME Continuum to determine which CDET programs are required for PME completion, also explained in MARADMIN 630/24  for Active Duty and Active Reserve Marines, and in MARADMIN 631/24 for SMCR, IMA and IRR Marines.

What If I’ve Already Done a Legacy School?

If you are a SSgt or GySgt, and have completed a legacy school (Career School or Advanced School), you’re already considered complete for the SNCO Leadership School requirement. Refer to MARADMIN 627/24, Paragraph 3, for full details.

How Does This Affect My Record?

Once you complete a seminar, your course completion will automatically be added to your official military record in the Marine Corps Total Force System (MCTFS). CDET will submit copies of your certificate into each student’s OMPF.

If the completion of the curriculum shows in MCTFS, but does not appear in OMPF, please contact CDET Student Support via the MCeLE help desk, option 2.

Resources

• NAVMC 11580, College of Enlisted Military Education (CEME) Command Screening Checklist

• Agreement of training for WSP

Leading Marines Distance Education Program

The Leading Marines distance education program (DEP) serves as the foundation of the professional military education building block program and supports the development of the requisite leadership skills for our future leaders.

This DEP is a MarineNet self-paced curriculum (EPME3000AA) divided into four subcourses specific to enlisted professional military education.

Subcourses

• EPME3110AA, Administration and Communication

  This subcourse teaches about the United States Constitution, the organization of the United States government, and the purpose of the oath of enlistment; the promotion system with an emphasis on fundamentals of proficiency and conduct marks; the guidelines to follow when making unofficial posts on social media sites; and the guidelines for participating in political activities. It consists of three lessons: the United States Constitution, The Promotion System, and Interact with Social Media.

• EPME3210AA, Warfighting

  This subcourse enhances the student's understanding of the nature of war and important maneuver warfare concepts. Students will further expand their abilities to make tactically sound decisions, formulate plans, coherently communicate those plans, and turn decisions into action. Additionally, as an expeditionary force, this subcourse reinforces that Marines operate in foreign environments among foreign peoples, demanding skills in working with foreign military and security forces as well as in understanding local populations. It consists of three lessons: Warfighting, Troop Leading Steps, and Operational Culture.

• EPME3220AA, Command and Military Organization

  This subcourse familiarizes the student with unit command structure and responsibilities, provides the basic composition of the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF), and introduces the structure of the Department of Defense (DoD). It consists of three lessons: The Command, Organizational Structure of the Marine Corps, and Organizational Structure of the Department of Defense.

• EPME3410AA, Developing Leaders

  This subcourse focuses on the practical application of the leadership topics taught in recruit training with an emphasis on values and ethics. It explores the student's individual values and how they relate to the Corps’ organizational values. Using values as a foundation for ethical leadership, this subcourse examines individual ethical decisions influenced by leadership traits and principles as well as Marine Corps core values. It consists of five lessons: Understanding Values, Marine Corps Core Values, Marine Corps Leadership Foundations, Ethical Leadership, and Team Development.

• EPME3420AA, Leadership Tools

  This subcourse explores the fundamentals of coaching, counseling, and mentoring. The most important responsibility in the Corps is leading Marines. Because of engaged, compassionate, and caring leaders, serving in the Marine Corps is a defining experience for everyone who has worn its cloth. It is up to all Marines to carry on that legacy, and the proper use of these leadership tools will assist the students in developing their abilities—and those of their Marines—to carry on the Corps’ heritage. It consists of three lessons: Fundamentals of Coaching, Counseling, and Mentoring; Coaching; and Counseling.

Eligibility

The Leading Marines DEP is available to all Marines. It is a PME requirement for promotion from lance corporal to corporal.

Completion Benefits

Higher Education

The American Council on Education (ACE) does not recommend credit for this DEP alone, but it does recommend 3 lower-division bachelor's or associate degree credits for the completion of both the Leading Marines DEP and the Corporals Course DEP.

Resources

Contact the MCeLE help desk for any information or guidance about CDET's distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.

Corporals Course Distance Education Program

The Corporals Course distance education program provides Marine Corps Corporals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assume leadership roles of greater responsibility as a non-commissioned officer of Marines. Instruction places emphasis on Leadership Development and Warfighting. It is designed to provide students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to become successful small-unit leaders using authentic problem-based situations that a Marine corporal will encounter.

This DEP is a MCeLE self-paced curriculum (EPME4000) which consists of eight subcourses: Administration, Communications, Operations, Fire Team Operations, Tactical Planning, Tactical Tools, Leadership I, and Leadership II.

Subcourses

• EPME4110, Administration

  This course describes how to select proficiency and conducts marks that fall within the marking ranges described in the Individual Records Administration Manual. This course also explains the promotion system and the eligibility requirements for promotion to private first class through sergeant. Students will learn how to manually calculate a composite score. Additionally, this course outlines the nonpunitive and punitive measures of the military justice system. This course includes the following lessons: Proficiency and Conduct Marks, The Promotion System, and the Military Justice System.

• EPME4210, Communications

  This course reinforces the elements of the communication process and the factors to consider when making a presentation. This course provides the guidelines to use when making unofficial posts on social media sites. Additionally, this course describes the articles of the Uniform Code of Military Justice that apply to social media situations and the security measures to take when using social media sites. This course includes the following lessons: Introduction to Professional Communications and Interact with Social Media.

• EPME4210, Operations

  The Marine Corps is the nation's expeditionary force in readiness. Marines are constantly forward deployed, forward engaged, and prepared for crisis response—ready to respond in the event of a major contingency. The American people expect Marines to respond quickly and to win battles. This course includes the following lessons: Warfighting, Irregular Warfare, Operational Culture, and Marine Corps Organization.

• EPME4220, Fire Team Operations

  This course describes the organization, weapons, and capabilities of the Marine rifle squad and fire teams. It addresses the squad's role and responsibilities of the squad leader and fire team leaders. Emphasis is placed on offensive and defensive tactics and techniques, as well as different types of patrols. This course includes the following lessons: The Marine Rifle Squad/Team, Defensive Operations, and Patrolling.

• EPME4230, Tactical Planning

  This course reinforces the troop leading troop-leading steps, and the planning process for all small unit leaders throughout the Marine Corps. This course includes the following lessons: Troop Leading Steps and Combat Orders.

• EPME4240, Tactical Tools

  This course teaches the skills of land navigation and tactical communication. Regardless of MOS, as a team, squad, or section leader, these skills will be critical for success on the modern battlefield. This course includes the following lessons: Land Navigation and Tactical Communication.

• EPME4410, Leadership I

  In this course, students will learn about the rich history of enlisted leadership, the foundations of the Corps’ institutional leadership, and how to develop leadership fundamentals in individuals and the Marines entrusted to their care. Leadership I outlines Marine Corps traditions, customs, and courtesies that created the standout reputation and the impact of the NCO Corps. Students will learn what it takes to be a member of the NCO Corps and how the leadership philosophy is supported throughout each level in the chain of command. This course is made up of three sub-courses: Keepers of the Tradition, Foundations of Marine Corps Leadership, and Developing Leadership Fundamentals.

• EPME4420, Leadership II

  This course reinforces how to obtain the best effort from subordinate Marines, as well as how to correct their deficiencies. This course will help students develop leadership skills and gain a greater understanding of how coaching, counseling, and mentoring enable their Marines to assume progressively greater responsibilities. Additionally, this course outlines Combat Operational Stress Control and the Philosophy of Combat Conditioning to examine the strategies and knowledge necessary to develop professionally and cultivate professional relationships. This course includes the following lessons: Coaching, Counseling and Mentoring, Combat Operational Stress Control, and the Philosophy of Combat Conditioning.

Eligibility

The Corporals Course DEP is available to lance corporals and above who have completed the Leading Marines DEP. It is a PME requirement for promotion from corporal to sergeant.

Completion Benefits

Higher Education

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends three (3) lower-division bachelor's or associate degree credits for the completion of both the Leading Marines DEP and the Corporals Course DEP.

Resources

Contact the MCeLE help desk for any information or guidance about CDET's distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.

Sergeants School Distance Education Program

The Sergeants School Distance Education Program (DEP) provides sergeants with the knowledge and information necessary to assume leadership roles of greater responsibility. 

The instruction places emphasis on leadership, warfighting, training, and administrative and communication skills that are necessary for a sergeant to function at the squad level, lead Marines in combat, and mentor junior Marines. This DEP focuses on providing sergeants with the knowledge that allows them to successfully perform the duties of a small unit leader with confidence and decisiveness. The Sergeants School curriculum consists of eight courses, all designed to enhance leadership capability and prepare Marines for additional education at the resident Sergeants School or the Sergeants School Seminar Program (SSSP).

This DEP is a MCeLE self-paced curriculum (EPME5000) divided into eight subcourses.

Subcourses

• EPME5110, Administration

  The Administration Course consists of three lessons: Military Justice System, Performance Evaluations, and Administrative Correspondence. The first lesson covers the purpose of the military justice system, nonpunitive measures, and punitive measures. This material describes how the student can help the commander maintain good order and discipline in the unit and make recommendations regarding discipline to the chain of command. The second lesson provides foundational information on the performance evaluations that reporting officials conduct while observing their Marines. The final lesson helps students become better communicators by describing how to write administrative correspondence that can be used, for example, to nominate an individual for Marine of the Quarter. In addition to describing standard letter format, the lesson offers useful techniques for proofreading correspondence.

• EPME5120, Communication

  The Communications course consists of three lessons:  Effective Writing, Deliver an Oral Presentation, and Social Media Interactions. The course covers the fundamentals of communicating effectively across the written, verbal, and social media spheres. The course emphasizes the importance of preparation when organizing both written and oral remarks, and it examines the importance of leadership by example from sergeants utilizing social media. It explains the different types of writing a sergeant may experience while serving in the Marine Corps and covers different types of essays with explanations on of their characteristics. Finally, it covers the writing process and the process to develop and deliver an oral presentation.

• EPME5210, Warfighting

  Warfighting consists of three lessons: Warfighting, Joint Operations, and Operations in the Information Environment. In this course, the Marine Corps’ warfighting philosophy is defined and further explained by introducing and examining the contents in of the Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication 1 (MCDP1), Warfighting, which includes topics such as preparing for war and the nature, theory, and conduct of war. To better understand our nation’s security requirements, inter-Service collaboration— otherwise known as joint operations—is discussed and expanded upon, as are the aspects and guidelines of information operations and information related capabilities.

• EPME5220, Squad Operations

  Squad Operations consists of three lessons: Offensive Operations, Defensive Operations, and Patrolling. In this course, the learner will become familiar with offensive and defensive fundamentals and the conduct of patrols.

• EPME5230, Tactical Planning

  Tactical Planning consists of four lessons: Tactical Fundamentals, Troop Leading Steps, Combat Orders, and Introduction to the Marine Corps Planning Process (MCPP). In this course, the student will begin to hone their warfighting skills through the focused study of tactics. A framework for understanding and demonstrating how to make sound tactical decisions will be introduced as will the two concepts that are used to make and evaluate sound decisions: the nine principles of war and the five tactical tenets.

• EPME5300, Training

  The Training Course consists of three lessons: Introduction to Unit Readiness Planning, Marine Corps Physical Fitness Program and Nutrition, and Guided Discussion. In this course, the student will be introduced to the Unit Readiness Planning (URP) Process and the steps associated with it. The systems approach to training; operational risk management; and the planning, scheduling, and coordinating of unit training will also be discussed. The student will also become familiar with the importance of physical fitness, as it is an essential component of combat and individual readiness. Also, the purpose, components, and application of guided discussions will be introduced.

• EPME5410, Leadership I

  This Leadership course consists of four lessons: Marine Corps Organization, History of the Marine NCO, Foundations of Marine Corps Leadership, and Close Order Drill and Ceremonies. This course covers the service and operational chain of commands and an explanation of the organizational forces that comprise our institution. It provides a comprehensive history of the non-commissioned officers officer's development and the critical roles they have played in the reputation and success of the United States Marine Corps. It explains the purpose and conduct of close order drill; it emphasizes the foundational elements of leadership, as well as the customs, courtesies, and traditions that have created our legacy as a character development organization.

• EPME5420, Leadership II

  This Leadership course consists of four lessons: Advise Subordinates on Career Progression, Developing Resilience: A Foundational Perspective, Critical Reading and Listening, and Bias for Action. This course provides the student with counseling, coaching, and mentoring strategies to assist them in sustaining the development of young Marines and themselves. It explains how to better transition policies into action by critically consuming information that will assist the student in making well-informed decisions. This lesson emphasizes the importance of taking the initiative, acting boldly, and accepting risk while also providing them with a fundamental knowledge of strengthening and maintaining resilience toward the challenges of operational stress.

Eligibility

The Sergeants School DEP is available to sergeants and above. It is a PME requirement for promotion from sergeant to staff sergeant.

Completion Benefits

Higher Education

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends 3 lower-division bachelor's or associate degree credits in Principles of Supervision.

Resources

Contact the MCeLE help desk for any information or guidance about CDET's distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.

Sergeants School Seminar Program

The Sergeants School Seminar Program (SSSP) curriculum is parallel to the resident Sergeants School curriculum with the same outcomes. 

• Program Outcome - Graduates of the Sergeants School will serve as the backbone of the Marine Corps by upholding standards, customs, and traditions; fostering discipline and esprit de corps; and developing lethal, mission-ready warfighters.

• Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

• SLO 5.1 - Apply Marine Corps warfighting philosophy and tactical tenets to lead Marines and accomplish missions in complex and contested environments.
• SLO 5.2 - Demonstrate the leadership, discipline, and professional judgment required to develop Marines, enforce standards, and uphold the values, customs, and traditions of the Marine Corps.

Lessons

Lesson 1: Professional Communications

This lesson emphasizes the communication skills sergeants need to lead effectively in both workplace and operational settings. Students will learn about preparing for and participating in guided discussions, using interpersonal communication techniques, and delivering clear, confident presentations that foster trust, strengthen professional relationships, and support mission success. The lesson also highlights habits that promote continuous improvement, such as reflective journaling for personal and professional development. Students will identify common communication barriers and apply practical strategies to overcome them, including the use of purposeful questioning to enhance two-way understanding. By engaging in discussions and practical exercises, students will learn how to build rapport, resolve conflicts, and cultivate trust. They will then apply these skills in an oral presentation that aligns with a leadership purpose, is tailored to the audience, and is supported by effective delivery techniques and visual aids. Educational objectives include analyzing reflective writing, overcoming communication barriers, exploring questioning techniques, and mastering interpersonal communication principles.

Lesson 2: Developing a Bias for Action

This lesson underscores the pivotal role sergeants play in sustaining legacy standards while preparing Marines for the complexities of modern warfare. It emphasizes that, regardless of Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), sergeants must make timely, informed decisions aligned with the commander’s intent and effectively operate in uncertain and high-pressure situations. Students will explore the concept of "bias for action," focusing on readiness, adherence to core values, and the discipline to act decisively in the face of conflict. The lesson also introduces Boyd’s decision-making concepts and links decisive action to unit performance and warfighting readiness, encouraging initiative as a deliberate leadership habit. Educational objectives include applying critical thinking to communication, defining mission tactics and bias for action, and analyzing judgment in the context of combat against a thinking adversary.

Lesson 3: Military Correspondence

Clear, accurate, and professional writing is a fundamental skill for sergeants, as written products influence decision-making, document actions, and communicate intent. This lesson focuses on the administrative and communication tasks that NCOs routinely perform, emphasizing precision and professionalism in military correspondence. Students will learn to distinguish between formal and informal memorandum formats and master the structure of professional military emails, including subject lines, greetings, body organization, tone, and signature block requirements. Marines will practice synthesizing critical information into clear, logical written products, including information papers. In this course, students will develop an information paper and a point paper to reinforce the practical application of written communication in leadership. Educational objectives include examining memorandum differences, email structure, and creating a well-structured information paper or point paper.

Lesson 4: Military Leadership Foundations

This lesson explores the enduring leadership foundations rooted in character, values, and the intangible qualities that motivate others to follow. Students will analyze how personal value systems influence behavior and why effective leaders must align their personal credibility with mission goals to inspire others. The lesson connects Marine Corps leadership principles to historical warrior cultures, highlighting duty, ideals, and ethos as central to the profession of arms. Marines will evaluate how leadership traits shape relationships across ranks and how they influence command climate and organizational effectiveness. This lesson examines the responsibilities inherent in leadership at the NCO level and explores the institutional and organizational consequences when those responsibilities are neglected. The educational objectives include identifying leadership foundations, assessing their impact on relationships, and understanding methods to reinforce warrior ethos.

Lesson 5: Leadership Styles

This lesson teaches that effective leadership starts with understanding the individuals you lead—not just their administrative data, but their values, motivations, learning styles, and strengths. Students will explore how empathy and understanding of Marines’ needs foster dignity, morale, cohesion, and combat effectiveness. The lesson emphasizes that leadership styles should be flexible and aligned with both organizational values and mission needs. Educational objectives include analyzing the relationship between leadership styles and values, exploring the NCO’s impact on organizational cohesion, and understanding how leadership approaches affect the environment and morale. Through discussion and reflection, students will learn how to adapt their leadership styles to build effective teams.

Lesson 6: Leadership Responsibility

This lesson examines the unique trust and confidence inherent in the sergeant’s role and the responsibility that comes with it. Students will explore how leadership decisions, whether positive or negative, shape command climate, morale, and discipline. Through case studies and discussions, sergeants will analyze the impact of leadership on individuals and units, particularly when core values are neglected or violated. Educational objectives include understanding the institutional and organizational roles of the NCO, analyzing the effects of leadership decisions, and exploring the consequences of prohibited behaviors such as hazing, sexual assault, and fraternization. The lesson emphasizes accountability, ethical leadership, and the preservation of trust as essential for mission success.

Lesson 7: Warfighting

This lesson introduces the intellectual framework for understanding war, emphasizing its inherent violence, uncertainty, and human dimension. Students will examine Marine Corps warfighting philosophy and its application across all MOSs, focusing on how this philosophy influences practical leadership and tactical decision-making. The lesson highlights the inseparability of warfighting and leadership philosophies, shaping how Marines exercise initiative, think critically, and lead with judgment. Educational objectives include analyzing the influence of war’s nature and theory on NCO performance, evaluating maneuver warfare characteristics, and understanding how warfighting functions enable small-unit maneuver.

Lesson 8: Troop Leading Steps

This lesson provides sergeants with a disciplined and adaptable decision-making framework for dynamic combat environments. Marines know BAMCIS (Begin the planning, Arrange reconnaissance, Make reconnaissance, Complete the plan, Issue orders, Supervise) as a flexible approach to mission planning and execution. Within the “Begin the planning” process, the Tactical Thought Process is applied to METT-TC (Mission, Enemy, Terrain and weather, Troops and support available, Time, and Civil considerations) to anticipate enemy actions, identify vulnerabilities, and develop effective plans. The lesson emphasizes decentralized execution and the importance of initiative and topsight over rigid procedures. Educational objectives focus on the application of METT-TC for tactical decision-making, developing plans and orders, and preparing for squad- and platoon-level operations.

Lesson 9: Naval Expeditionary Operations

This lesson reaffirms the Marine Corps as the Nation's premier expeditionary force, capable of rapidly deploying and operating in austere environments. Students will explore the expeditionary mindset and its importance across all MAGTF (Marine Air-Ground Task Force) operations, particularly in joint and national security efforts. The lesson focuses on the strengths of the MAGTF, including its scalable integration of air, ground, and logistics capabilities, and how this integration enhances Marine Corps effectiveness in naval and joint operations. Educational objectives include understanding the characteristics of expeditionary operations, analyzing the MAGTF’s role in naval and joint operations, and studying the key tasks that support rapid response and operational success.

Lesson 10: Modern Warfare

This lesson frames the changing nature of warfare, focusing on contested maritime and littoral environments where peer and near-peer adversaries challenge U.S. forces across multiple domains. Students will learn about the Marine Corps' adaptation to modern warfare through concepts such as Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO), Littoral Operations in a Contested Environment (LOCE), and Marine Littoral Regiments (MLRs). The lesson also addresses the impact of emerging technologies, such as drones and electronic warfare, and how these shape battlefield dynamics. Students will explore how these new challenges demand flexibility, resilience, and the preservation of traditional small-unit leadership and discipline. Educational objectives include understanding how modern concepts like EABO and LOCE contribute to maritime and littoral operations and exploring the integration of emerging technologies in Marine Corps operations.

Lesson 11: Unit Readiness

Unit readiness defines a unit's ability to accomplish missions across the spectrum of operations, and sergeants are key to driving that readiness at the small-unit level. This lesson focuses on how to integrate individual, MOS-specific, and collective training with the commander’s priorities. Students will learn how to plan, execute, track, and improve training, ensuring that Marines remain mission-ready. Educational objectives include analyzing training programs that contribute to readiness, applying the Unit Training Management process to develop training schedules, and reinforcing the sergeant's responsibility to enforce training standards and maintain unit readiness.

Lesson 12: Leadership Development Tools

This lesson equips sergeants with the tools to develop their subordinates into future leaders while balancing mission demands. Students will examine leadership development as a continuous process grounded in personal example and self-improvement. The lesson emphasizes the importance of feedback as a tool for growth and confidence-building, rather than criticism. Educational objectives include differentiating between counseling and performance evaluations, explaining the role of counseling in development, improving coaching and counseling techniques, and understanding the NCO’s role in leadership development. Through practical exercises, Marines will demonstrate effective coaching and counseling behaviors.

Lesson 13: Career Progression

This lesson teaches sergeants how to navigate Marine Corps evaluation and reporting systems, which shape both their own careers and those of the Marines they lead. Students will gain an understanding of the Performance Evaluation System (PES) and Junior Enlisted Performance Evaluation System (JEPES), including the roles and responsibilities of participants and the implications of fair and accurate evaluations. The lesson focuses on interpreting Master Brief Sheets, understanding adverse reports, and preparing for selection boards. Educational objectives include explaining the roles in JEPES, interpreting fitness report data, and preparing subordinates for career progression.

Lesson 14: Developing Resiliency

Resilience is essential for combat effectiveness and sustained operations in austere environments. This lesson explores how to develop mental, physical, social, and spiritual resilience in Marines. Using case studies and doctrinal frameworks, students will learn how to build resilience in individuals and units, helping them thrive under stress and adversity. Educational objectives include analyzing resilience development, examining the relationship between fitness domains, and understanding how resilience enhances cohesion and unit effectiveness in high-pressure environments.

Lesson 15: Role of the NCO

This lesson defines the sergeant’s role as both the embodiment of Marine Corps values and the essential guardian of Marines’ responsibilities, directly impacting battlefield success and the broader institution. Students will examine leadership as a discipline that is cultivated through experience, self-reflection, and continuous growth, rather than as an innate trait. The sergeant is positioned as a critical link between the commander’s intent and mission accomplishment, translating strategic guidance into operational success. Marines will explore how the Marine Corps views leadership as a process of developing the qualities of each Marine to assume greater responsibility. The lesson emphasizes the importance for sergeants to understand the values and character of those they lead, while serving as mentors, guides, and standard-bearers. Additionally, once sergeants have mastered their MOS, they are expected to provide counsel and expertise to officers, with their failure to uphold duty potentially jeopardizing both individual Marines and unit readiness. Educational objectives include explaining the institutional and organizational responsibilities of the NCO in developing Marines, and evaluating how leadership principles contribute to military effectiveness and the profession of arms.

Eligibility and Enrollment

The Sergeants School Seminar Program is available to sergeants who have completed the Sergeants School DEP on MCeLE (EPME5000BA). SSSP (or the resident Sergeants School course) is a PME requirement for promotion from sergeant to staff sergeant. Read about the enrollment process.

Schedules

Each seminar will have an assigned instructor, and the schedule will depend on the seminar option (on site, online synchronous, online asynchronous, or weekend). Schedules for individual seminars are provided by the region.

Completion Benefits

Higher Education

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends three (3) lower-division bachelor's degree credits in Leadership.

Resources

Contact us for any information or guidance about CDET's seminar-based distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Read about the Elearning Ecosystem or log into the MCeLE Moodle portal.

Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.

Career Course

The Career Course distance education program (DEP) provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assume leadership roles of greater responsibility.

The instruction provides the skills necessary to act as a problem solver, lead at the platoon level, influence company-grade officers, and to lead and develop subordinate leaders in the areas of warfighting, core values, and preserving time-honored traditions. It emphasizes the leadership, warfighting, training, administration, and communication skills necessary for the student to lead and mentor Marines.

This DEP is a MCeLE curriculum (EPME6000AA) divided into eight subcourses.

SUBCOURSES

• EPME6110AA, Administration and Communication I

  This subcourse teaches how to conduct a preliminary inquiry and make a proper recommendation to the convening authority. The student will gain a better understanding of how to plan, prepare, and deliver a military briefing. Additionally, they will learn about the total force structure process, including how to review a unit's table of organization and equipment (T/O&E) report and make T/O or T/E change recommendations, via the chain of command, to improve the unit's ability to accomplish its mission. It consists of three lessons: Preliminary Inquiry, Conduct a Military Briefing, and Review T/O&E.

• EPME6120AA, Administration and Communication II

  This subcourse teaches how to prepare military correspondence such as a standard letter and business letter. The student will gain a better understanding of staff action papers and, in particular, how to develop a position paper. They will gain an enhanced knowledge of award requirements and learn how to draft an award recommendation that can be forwarded through the chain of command. Additionally, the student will gain a better understanding of the media, including some effective techniques to use when participating in a media interview. It consists of four lessons: Prepare Military Correspondence, Develop a Position Paper, Write an Award Recommendation, and Interact with the Media.

• EPME6210AA, Warfighting

  This subcourse enhances the student's knowledge of the theory and nature of war, and how we, as Marines, prepare for and conduct war. It teaches the foundation of joint operations and joint force organization. Additionally, the student will become familiar with the history of irregular warfare—activities and operations—and the key elements of irregular warfare. It consists of three lessons: Warfighting, Joint Operations, and Irregular Warfare.

• EPME6220AA, Command and Control

  This subcourse describes the difference between command and control, and the basic sequence of the command and control process. It teaches about the four classes of information and the purpose of intelligence. The student will also study the functions and types of combat operations centers and the responsibilities of key personnel within the combat operations center. It consists of two lessons: Command and Control and Combat Operations Center.

• EPME6230AA, Tactical Planning

  This subcourse teaches about the aspects of tactics and the forms of offensive maneuver. It describes the purpose of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and teaches about the principles of war and the tactical tenets. It focuses on the six troop-leading steps and the tactical thought process used to identify and analyze all elements of the situation to develop a scheme of maneuver used in executing a mission. It teaches the fundamentals and foundations of combat orders and the role they play in converting decisions into communication and action, and describes the types of orders: warning orders, operation orders, and fragmentary orders. It also teaches about the tenets and steps of the Marine Corps Planning Process. It consists of four lessons: Tactical Fundamentals, Troop Leading Steps, Combat Orders, and Marine Corps Planning Process.

• EPME6300AA, Training

  This subcourse introduces the unit readiness planning (URP) process and the steps associated with it; the systems approach to training; operational risk management; and the planning, scheduling, and coordinating of unit training. The student will become familiar with training and readiness (T&R) manuals. Additionally, it teaches how to conduct a training assessment of a unit and how to evaluate training events. It consists of two lessons: Unit Readiness Planning and Manage Training.

• EPME6410AA, Leadership I

  This subcourse teaches how personal and professional values affect the profession of arms, including how values affect professional ethics, how Marine Corps and personal ethos affect values, what it means to be a military professional, and how values affect professional relations. It describes how to lead Marines through their career progression and the benefits of an effective mentoring program. It teaches about the traditional duties and responsibilities of the staff noncommissioned officer at official Marine Corps events. Additionally, the student will gain a better understanding of the transformation process within the Marine Corps, obstacles to sustaining the transformation, obstacle reduction, and the methods used for sustaining the transformation. It consists of four lessons: Values Based Leadership, Career Progression Advisor, Company Drill and Ceremonies, and Leadership Challenges.

• EPME6420AA, Leadership II

  This subcourse teaches about the Body Composition and Military Appearance program, provides enhanced knowledge of how to construct combat conditioning sessions, and details combat and operational stress control so that leaders can recognize and mitigate stress and eliminate the stigma associated with getting needed help. It consists of three lessons: Body Composition and Military Appearance, Combat and Operational Stress Control, and Constructing Combat Conditioning Sessions.

ELIGIBILITY

The Career Course DEP is available to staff sergeant selects and above. It is a PME requirement for promotion from staff sergeant to gunnery sergeant.

COMPLETION BENEFITS

HIGHER EDUCATION

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends 3 lower-division bachelor's or associate degree credits in Introduction to Management.

RESOURCES

Contact the MCeLE help desk for any information or guidance about CDET's distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.

Advanced School

The Advanced School Distant Education Program (DEP) emphasizes warfighting and leadership skills necessary for a gunnery sergeant of Marines to function in a wide variety of combat and non-combat roles. This course of instruction is designed to be a precursor to the resident School and Seminar Program experience to place the student on a common level of understanding regardless of military occupational specialty. It contains seven courses divided into 20 lessons. The Advanced School DEP will enhance the students' knowledge of the United States Marine Corps and the strategy behind how Marines train, fight, and win.

Upon completion of this course of instruction, the student will be able to better support the organizational values of the Marine Corps and their unit, increase their ability to influence the command climate, properly adhere to administrative and legal procedures within the organization, and conduct a variety of combat operational roles such as watch officer or company gunnery sergeant in a MAGTF or joint operating environment.

This DEP is a MCeLE self-paced curriculum (EPME7000BA) divided into seven sub-courses.

SUBCOURSES

• EPME7410, Advanced School Critical Thinking

  The future security environment is characterized by dynamic, complex situations that require adaptive leaders who can thrive under conditions of uncertainty. There are few prescribed solutions for the countless complex situations that will arise on a fluid battlefield. The Marine Corps must produce leaders who can think critically and capitalize on complexity and chaos. Becoming a critical thinker, reader, and listener requires a committed effort to learn the concepts and practice the elements. The primary objective of this course is to provide students the opportunity to focus on themselves as thinkers, examine personal strengths and weaknesses, develop new competencies, and enhance their ability to self-assess, think critically, and lead in complex environments.

• EPME7110, Advanced School-Administration

  The Administration course consists of three lessons: Military Justice System, Lawful Search and Seizure, and Manual of the Judge Advocate General Investigations. The course covers the fundamentals of the military justice system to include the bodies of law, non-punitive measures, an individual’s Article 31 rights, and non-judicial punishment. The course emphasizes the importance of conducting a search and seizure of property in accordance with laws and regulations. It explains the different types of searches, limitations, and the proper procedures to conduct a search and seize property, so the items will be admissible at court proceedings. The course describes the various types of Manual of the Judge Advocate General investigations to include how to conduct a command investigation.

• EPME7120, Advanced School-Communication

  The Communication course consists of three lessons: Military Correspondence, Effective Communications, and social media. The course uses the Department of the Navy Correspondence Manual to describe how to prepare military correspondence. It also provides proofreading techniques used to identity the format, content, spelling, and grammatical errors within correspondence. The course describes effective communication practices for conveying a message via electronic mail, in writing, and orally. It examines the prevalence of social media’s prevalence in today’s society and the Marine Corps. The course provides senior leaders with ways to influence the command climate of an organization using social media. Finally, the course provides a list of concerns individuals must consider when using social media.

• EPME7210, Advanced School- Warfighting I

  The Warfighting I course contains the upper-level intricacies of strategy and concept in relation to military organization and operations. It familiarizes the student with the Marine Corps Planning Process for developing a wide range of service, joint, combined, and interagency operations. The emphasis of this course is on the role of the Marine Corps within the Department of Defense and the use of the military to meet the national strategy.

• EPME7220, Advanced School-Warfighting II

  The Warfighting II course will provide a complete understanding of the functionality of a combat operations center. Its focus is on the tactical level of warfare providing a holistic understanding of offensive and defensive operational strategies. The course provides the student the opportunity to look inside a Combat Operations Center to gain an understanding of the various aspects of Command and Control. This course also defines operations in the information environment and provides examples of tactics employed by adversaries.

• EPME7420, Advanced School-Leadership

  The Leadership course consists of three lessons that analyze institutional and organizational concepts that broaden the student’s understanding of the Marine Corps warfighting organization as well as the expectations associated with being a senior enlisted leader. The strategies and philosophies contained within these lessons will aid the students in developing cohesion within their units and sustaining the transformation of the most important asset: the individual Marine. With this institutional guidance on assessing the command climate, relating daily activities to the bigger picture, and developing the moral compass of Marines, students will be in a better position to influence positive and effective decision-making throughout their organization.

ELIGIBILITY

The Advanced School DEP is available to gunnery sergeant selects and above. It is a PME requirement for promotion from gunnery sergeant to master sergeant or first sergeant.

COMPLETION BENEFITS

HIGHER EDUCATION

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends three (3) upper-division bachelor's degree credits in Operational Management.

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends three (3) lower-division bachelor's degree credits in Leadership.

RESOURCES

Contact the MCeLE for any information or guidance about CDET's distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Contact us for any information or guidance about CDET's seminar-based distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.

snco leadership school seminar program

The SNCO Leadership School Seminar Program (SLSSP) curriculum is parallel to the resident SNCO Leadership School curriculum with the same outcomes.

Program Outcomes: Graduates of the SNCO Leadership School will be able to serve as:

• Trusted leaders and advisors dedicated to professional and personal growth.

• Indomitable warfighters with a bias for intelligent action who understand and embrace the Marine Corps' warfighting philosophy and the MAGTF's role in Marine, joint, and naval operations.

• Guardians of Marine Corps values and standards, traditions, and esprit de corps while fostering positive command climates and unit cohesion.

• Committed professionals, dedicated to Country and Corps, who demonstrate strength of character to persevere and lead in the face of adversity.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

• SLO 6.1 - Analyze the foundations of Marine Corps leadership and the SNCO’s role in ethical decision-making to uphold institutional values and standards.

• SLO 6.2 - Analyze the SNCO’s role in advising and counseling Marines on discipline, ethical behavior, and professional growth.

• SLO 6.3 - Apply critical thinking and creative problem-solving techniques to effectively communicate and supervise viable solutions to complex problems.

• SLO 6.4 - Explain the Marine Corps warfighting philosophy and how it is applied throughout the MAGTF.

• SLO 6.5 - Explain the strengths of the MAGTF and how its integration in naval and joint operations enhances operational effectiveness.

• SLO 6.6 - Apply professional communication skills to convey decisions, resolve conflict, and advocate for resources.

LESSONS

• Lesson 1, Complex Problem Solving

  Students apply critical and systems thinking tools to break down the complex, ill-structured problems they face as enlisted leaders. Working through the elements of thought, they map the broader system surrounding a problem, structure their reasoning, and learn to recognize and counter the cognitive biases that distort judgment under pressure.

• Lesson 2, Effective Communications

  Marines sharpen the oral and written skills they use daily to inform, persuade, and lead. Through written assignments, discussion board posts and replies, seminar discussions, and a 2-minute impromptu presentation, students practice communicating clearly and concisely under realistic time and audience constraints.

• Lesson 3, Warfighting

  Students delve into the principles of mission command and control, highlighting the importance of decentralized decision-making and empowering subordinates to act on intent. They apply the tactical thought process to work through complex situations and rehearse the adaptation skills that let leaders manage uncertainty and seize emerging opportunities.

• Lesson 4, Support the Command Philosophy

  Students learn to identify and interpret the commander's intent so they can drive mission success while keeping the unit aligned vertically and horizontally. They assess their own leadership styles and produce a written personal leadership philosophy they can immediately put to use in their units.

• Lesson 5, Influencing Command Climate

  Students develop the ability to assess the climate within an organization and develop concrete measures to shape it for the better. Through case examples, they also examine what happens when leaders fail in their institutional and organizational roles and how to prevent it.

• Lesson 6, MAGTF Operations

  Students review MAGTF capabilities through the warfighting functions and examine how the MAGTF contributes to the joint force, building the operational context they need to employ and support those capabilities in the fleet.

• Lesson 7, Tactical Planning

  Students work through the troop leading steps (BAMCIS) and the orders process (SMEAC) by converting a company-level operations order into a platoon-level order and briefing the result.

• Lesson 8, Naval and Joint Operations

  Students apply Marine Corps doctrine to operations in naval and joint environments. They work through the practical effects of the 1986 Goldwater-Nichols DOD Reorganization Act, the two chains of command, the combatant commands, and expeditionary advanced base operations, connecting each to how the Corps prepares for future roles.

• Lesson 9, Developing NCOs

  Students examine how SNCOs draw out the best in their Marines and deliberately shape opportunities for professional growth. They practice the coaching, counseling, and mentoring skills that turn day-to-day interactions into leadership development.

• Lesson 10, Performance Evaluations

  Students strengthen the skills they use to evaluate and advocate for their Marines: advising subordinate leaders on fitness report matters, auditing the Master Brief Sheet, maintaining accurate official records, helping subordinates draft rebuttals to adverse reports, and navigating the enlisted promotion board process.

• Lesson 11, Military Correspondence

  Students build the technical writing skills mid-level leadership demands. After working through standard correspondence types, formatting, and proofreading methods, they demonstrate mastery by developing a Decision Paper aimed at improving decision-making in their organization.

• Lesson 12, Unit Training Management

  Students apply the readiness planning constructs that drive units toward a high state of mission readiness. A practical After-Action Review assignment sharpens their ability to evaluate training and deliver feedback that improves it.

• Lesson 13, Legal Processes

  Students work through the military legal concepts related to lawful search and seizure and the Manual of Judge Advocate General (JAGMAN) investigations and legal processes they will rely on to maintain good order and discipline. During this lesson, students will provide an oral presentation delivering their recommendation regarding an assigned leadership dilemma.

• Lesson 14, Professional Military Ethics

  Using recent battlefield studies, students examine how leadership shapes ethical behavior in the profession of arms. The lesson serves as the culminating analysis of Black Hearts: One Platoon's Descent into Madness in the Triangle of Death, drawing practical lessons leaders can apply to prevent ethical failure in their own units.

• Lesson 15, Role of the Enlisted Leader

  Students synthesize the previous fourteen weeks, consolidating the roles and responsibilities of the SNCO and trusted advisor from both institutional and organizational perspectives.

   

ELIGIBILITY AND ENROLLMENT

The SNCO Leadership School Seminar Program is available to staff sergeants and gunnery sergeants who have completed the Career Course DEP on MCeLE (EPME6000). SLSSP (or the resident SNCO Leadership School) is a PME requirement for gunnery sergeants. Read about the enrollment process.

SCHEDULES

Each seminar will have an assigned instructor, and the schedule will depend on the seminar option (on site, online synchronous, online asynchronous, or weekend). Schedules for individual seminars are provided by the region.

COMPLETION BENEFITS

HIGHER EDUCATION

The American Council on Education (ACE) recommends three (3) upper-division bachelor's degree credits in Business Communications and three (3) in Leadership and Ethics.

RESOURCES

Contact us for any information or guidance about CDET's seminar-based distance education programs for enlisted Marines.

Read about the eLearning Ecosystem or log into the MCeLE Moodle portal. Transcripts can be obtained via MCeLE.