Certification
CDSE offers three certification programs:
- SPēD: Security Professional Education Development
- DoD Personnel Security Adjudicator Professional Certification (APC)
- Special Program Security Certification
What is certification?
Certification is a credential acknowledging an individual has demonstrated a specific level of knowledge or competence, as defined by a professional standards setting organization.
What is the difference between a certificate and a certification program?
A certification program is more than a certificate program. Certification programs focus on testing, whereas certificate programs focus on learning. The latter typically results in a certificate of attendance or completion and is not always based on testing of learning. Certification results in a credential that provides assurance that those who have achieved certification can demonstrate the required competencies.
Why become certified?
Benefits for the security practitioner...
- Provides for a common set of standards to measure requirements for a position.
- Demonstrates success and mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required by a security professional.
- Provides a recognized credential for security professionals.
- Facilitates recognition of the skills and supports the seamless transfer of security professionals among DoD Components and Agencies.
- Facilitates interoperability among DoD security practitioners.
Benefits for the component/agency...
- Promotes a common and shared understanding of security functional tasks and the knowledge and skills associated with the competencies required to perform those functions.
- Promotes an interoperable DoD security workforce.
- Facilitates sound professional development and training.
- Provides for a recognized credential for security professionals.
- Facilitates transfer of security professionals among Component Agencies.
Benefits for the nation...
- Defines standards for security practitioners and drives professional accountability.
- Meets DoD and National Security Plans and Objectives for developing the workforce.