Noncommissioned Officer Education System (NCOES): Considerations for Testing-out and Awarding Equivalent Credit

This research examined the viability of allowing noncommissioned officers (NCOs) to receive NCO Education System (NCOES) credit based on experience or testing-out. Surveys and interviews were completed with 164 participants, varying in rank from Lieutenant Colonel to Staff Sergeant. Participants were serving in duty positions ranging from U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command School Leaders and staff to actual NCO and Officer course instructors, at six Army installations representing 11 Schools. The majority (58%) agreed that testing-out of selected NCOES content is a viable option and 61% agreed that no credit should be awarded solely for experience. An overwhelming majority (90%) agreed that all NCOs should attend some resident NCOES classes to foster interpersonal relationships, 86% agreed that testing-out should include both hands-on and written components, and 85% agreed that all NCOs, active and reserve, should be handled the same concerning testing-out or receiving equivalent credit. Perspectives differed by rank group and duty position. Participants identified numerous educational, administrative, logistical, and sociological items that could be negatively impacted by testing-out. They also suggested some testing-out procedures that might mitigate potential impacts.