Education & Training

Systems Planning, Research, Development and Engineering (SPRDE) Course Descriptions

The following overview provides brief descriptions of the required courses for the SPRDE/Systems Engineering and SPRDE/Program Systems Engineer career paths.

ACQ 101 Fundamentals of Systems Acquisition Management
This course provides a broad overview of the DoD systems acquisition process, covering all phases of acquisition. ACQ 101 introduces the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development Systems (JCIDS); Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution (PPBE) process; DoD 5000 series policy documents; and current issues in systems acquisition management. Designed for individuals who have little or no experience in DoD acquisition management, ACQ 101 has proven very useful to personnel in headquarters, program management, and functional or support offices.

SYS 101 Fundamentals of Systems Planning, Research, Development and Engineering
SYS 101 is a technically rigorous and comprehensive online course that provides an introduction to Systems Engineering. It is based around the 8 technical management processes and the 8 technical processes outlined in the Defense Acquisition Guidebook. This course is also suitable for personnel in technical management and program management positions who want to understand more about systems engineering and the details of its processes.

ACQ 201A Intermediate Systems Acquisition, Part A
ACQ201A uses computer-based training to prepare mid-level acquisition professionals to work in integrated product teams by understanding systems acquisition principles and processes. Both ACQ 201A and ACQ 201B are required for DAWIA certification.

ACQ 201B Intermediate Systems Acquisition, Part B
ACQ201B prepares mid-level acquisition professionals to work effectively in integrated product teams by understanding systems acquisition principles and processes. Both ACQ 201A and ACQ 201B are required for DAWIA certification.

SYS 202 Intermediate Systems Planning, Research, Development and Engineering, Part I
This journeyman-level course provides an understanding of how the DoD systems engineering (SE) processes can be applied within the context of the activities illustrated on the DAU Integrated Defense AT&L Life Cycle Management Framework chart. Course content includes the scope and role of SE and its key technical inputs and outputs; the key aspects of technical baselines and the role of technical reviews; and important design considerations.

CLE 003 Technical Reviews
This continuous learning module presents essential practical guidelines for integrating several different technical reviews into the systems engineering process and DoD acquisition life cycle based on best engineering practices. 3 CLPs

SYS 203 Intermediate Systems Planning, Research, Development and Engineering, Part II
The journeyman-level course requires students to apply the DoD Systems Engineering processes and techniques learned in SYS 101 and 202. Students will work in integrated product teams and apply systems engineering technical processes and technical management processes to a defense system across the various phases of the Defense acquisition framework. Requirements to design, develop, implement, oversee, and operate a CM program across the system life cycle are discussed. In addition to identifying government and commercial CM best practices, the course also addresses the application and impacts on CM by such current and emerging issues as Total Life Cycle Systems Management, product data management, unique item identification, evolutionary acquisition, performance-based logistics, condition-based maintenance, prognostics and health management, and diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages.

SYS 302 Technical Leadership in Systems Engineering
Designed for senior DoD acquisition personnel, SYS 302 is focused on the application of technical leadership skills within a typical DoD Systems Engineering (SE) environment. SYS 302 participants are expected to have sufficient background knowledge of the DoD’s SE technical and technical management processes, knowledge of the application of SE to each acquisition phase, and the capability to apply these concepts to complex technical management problem involving critical thinking. As part of the SYS 302 course, students will lead and participate in an engineering team that analyzes and resolves a variety of technical engineering critical issues. Class exercises are supplemented by lessons on current policy, architecture, design considerations, etc.

CLL 008 Designing for Supportability in DoD Systems
CLL 008 provides a comprehensive overview and introduction to incorporating the principles of systems engineering throughout the system life cycle to design, develop, produce, and sustain operationally reliable, supportable, and effective systems. 3 CLPs

LOG 204 Configuration Management
This fast-paced, cross-disciplinary course provides the knowledge necessary to apply configuration management (CM). It includes the interrelationship of CM to such life cycle activities as systems engineering, data management, logistics support planning, and weapon systems sustainment. LOG 204 provides an overview of the concepts and basic practices of CM, including configuration identification, status accounting, audits and verification, configuration change management, performance measures, and CM planning.