Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 3 

Mission, Vision and FY11 Initiatives

Mission

Provide the Department of Defense with a security center of excellence for the 

professionalization of the security community and be the premier provider of 

security education and training for the Department of Defense and industry. Furnish 

unparalleled development, delivery and exchange of security knowledge to ensure 

a high performing workforce capable of addressing our Nation’s security challenges.

Vision

To be the premier provider and center of excellence for security training, 

professionalization, education, research, and multimedia production for the 

Department of Defense and the defense industrial base. 

FY11 Initiatives 

Develop and Implement DoD Security Professional Certification ..................... 6

Develop Education for Leaders in the DoD Security Community ..................... 8

Conduct 2011 DoD Worldwide and European Security Conferences ................... 9

Enhance Student Experience through Social Media and Upgraded LMS ........ 10

Support to Operation New Dawn ............................................................................................. 11

Enhance Instructor-Led Training .......................................................................................... 12

Deploy Simulation Capabilities in a Virtual Environment ........................................... 13

Introduce Short Format eLearning Courses ................................................................ 14

Enhance Training for DSS Industrial Security Program Personnel ..................... 15

Expand eLearning Offerings .............................................................................................. 16

Complete Transition of the FSO Curriculum ................................................................. 17
4 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

CDSE Course Completions

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

3,250 4,699 5,269 8,568 24,726 26,867 30,892 30,606 50,573 91,649 124,600 200,046

 200,046 total course completions in FY2011
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 5 

As leaders of the Center for Development of Security 

Excellence (CDSE), we are pleased to present our 

second Year End Report. We are privileged to have 

this opportunity to share CDSE successes in training, 

educating, and professionalizing the DoD security 

community. But we know this success could not be 

achieved without your support. 

This year the DoD security community played a 

tremendous role in launching the Security Professional 

Education Development (SPēD) Program. The SPēD 

Program successfully inaugurated its initial certification, 

awarding the first 

security certifications 

in DoD history. Hundreds of security professionals 

earned Security Fundamentals Professional 

Certification (SFPC), and the continued conferral of 

more certifications is ongoing. 

Additionally, CDSE student course completions, both 

online and instructor-led, continue to increase. We 

are pleased to note that more security professionals 

attended the DoD Worldwide Security Conference 

than last year, and the demand for conference sessions 

is growing. These accomplishments are affirmation of 

CDSE’s commitment to unparalleled development, 

delivery and exchange of security knowledge.

We greatly appreciate your involvement and look forward to continuing to serve you 

in 2012. 

Sincerely,

Kevin J. Jones Denise D. Humphrey 

Director, CDSE Deputy Director, CDSE

From the Front Office

Mr. Kevin Jones

Ms. Denise Humphrey
6 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

Develop & Implement DoD Security Professional Certification

During FY11, the Center for Development of Security 

Excellence (CDSE) continued its drive to professionalize 

the DoD security workforce. CDSE made major strides 

in implementing the Security Professional Education 

Development (SPēD) Program.

Successes

Security Fundamentals Professional 

Certification (SFPC) Launched

CDSE launched the Security Fundamentals 

Professional Certification (SFPC), the first of four 

core SPēD Certifications. SFPC determines that 

the security practitioner has the requisite skills 

and knowledge to address 21st century security 

challenges. In less than a year, 708 security 

professionals in the United States and abroad have 

achieved this valued credential.

SFPC Conferrals

The DoD community conducted several conferral 

ceremonies to honor security professionals who first 

earned the SFPC. Some of the largest ceremonies are 

listed below.

•	 Defense Security Service (DSS) conducted the 

first SFPC conferral ceremony honoring CDSE 

instructors, course curriculum developers, and an 

industrial security professional from DSS Industrial 

Security Field Operations.

•	 The Air Force hosted a ceremony honoring the first 

46 Air Force civilians to earn the SFPC.

•	 The Army hosted three inaugural SPēD Award 

Ceremonies for conferees in the Metropolitan D.C. 

area, the West Coast, and the East Coast. 

•	 The Navy hosted a ceremony recognizing 45 

Department of Navy security professionals.

SPēD Testing for Industry Professionals

Beginning in FY12, SFPC testing will be offered 

to Industry Security Professionals at the CDSE 

Linthicum, Md., location and select conference 

events. Additionally, some CDSE instructor-led 

courses will offer testing. Security professionals 

within industry under the National Industrial Security 

Program (NISP) may participate in SFPC. 

Please note: The SPēD Certification Program is not 

based on the National Industrial Security Program 

Operating Manual (NISPOM) but is designed to 

measure the knowledge, skills, and abilities based 

on the definition of work performed by security 

practitioners on behalf of the DoD.

Conferees of the Security 

Fundamentals Professional 

Certification (SFPC) receive a 

bronze lapel pin. Holders are 

authorized to use the SFPC 

designation on business cards, 

resumes, and signature lines. 

CDSE instructors, course curriculum developers, and a DSS 

industrial security professional were conferred the Security 

Fundamentals Professional Certification on April 1, 2011.
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 7 

Security Asset Protection Professional 

Certification (SAPPC) Beta Test Launched

The beta test for the second SPēD Certification, 

Security Asset Protection Professional Certification 

(SAPPC), was launched in August at the 2011 

DoD Worldwide Security Conference. Thirty-two 

security professionals took the SAPPC Beta Test 

at the conference. This certification assesses a 

security practitioner’s application of required skills 

and knowledge. Security professionals conferred 

with the SFPC are eligible to take this second 

SPēD certification. 

Certifications and Accreditation in Development

The third and fourth certifications, Security Program 

Integration Professional Certification (SPIPC) and 

Security Enterprise Professional Certification (SEPC), 

are under development. In the coming year, CDSE 

will be developing, refining, and incorporating three 

specialty certifications into the SPēD Program: the 

DoD Personnel Adjudicator Certification Program 

(ACP), Special Program Security Certification (SPSC), 

and the DSS Industrial Security Certification (IS). 

Additionally, CDSE is seeking accreditation for 

the SFPC through the National Commission for 

Certifying Agencies.

Supporting DoD SPēD Implementation 

DoD Components and Agencies are required by 

DoD 3305.13-M to implement the SPēD Program in 

their organization by 2016. CDSE has been working 

with DoD Components and Agencies to support 

their implementation process and ensure their 

successful implementation of the program.

SPēD Outreach

CDSE is making a concerted effort to carry the 

SPēD assessment and the SPēD message to security 

practitioners by conducting briefings, workshops, 

and testing throughout the United States and 

abroad. This year, CDSE conducted SFPC testing in 

Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Stuttgart, Germany. 

Other OCONUS sites are planned for next year. 

Develop & Implement DoD Security Professional Certification

is is to certify

Having successfully demonstrated understanding of the concepts and

principles deemed critical to protect Department of Defense assets, 

we hereby bestow the

Security Fundamentals Professional Certification

United States Department of Defense

Stanley L. Sims

Director, Defense Security Service

Michael G. Vickers

Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence

SFPC Number 000000

SFPC Original Grant Date 1 April 2011

Sample Sample

John E. Dough

“SPēD is not just a certification program. It’s a holistic 

approach to security training and professionalizing our 

security community. It’s about training. It’s about education. 

It’s about career path development and planning. It’s about 

continuing education through seminars and conferences 

and going to school and taking tests. And also, it’s about 

the certification.”

Stan Sims, Director, Defense Security Service

Holders of the SFPC receive a certificate.
8 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

The Center for Development of Security Excellence 

(CDSE) established the Education Division to develop 

and deliver advanced and graduate-level courses to 

prepare personnel to assume senior leadership and 

management positions in DoD security.

Successes

Security Education Needs Assessment Study 

CDSE completed an extensive needs assessment 

study that found the majority of current security 

training and education is focused on entry-level 

skills and operational knowledge, and as a result, 

much of the development of security personnel, 

even at senior levels, occurs through on-the-job 

training. Furthermore, 53% of personnel at GS-14 

and 25% at GS-15 levels have less than a bachelor’s 

degree. This study identified specifically the security 

education needs of DoD.

As a result of this study, CDSE has begun design 

and development of a curriculum of collegiate and 

graduate-level courses specifically designed to 

prepare leaders for the DoD security community. 

CDSE is also seeking CREDIT recommendations 

from the American Council on Education (ACE) 

which will allow students to receive college credit 

for completing certain CDSE courses.

Curriculum Committee Launched

The CDSE Education Division Curriculum Committee 

held its initial meeting on April 12, 2011. Members of the 

Committee are senior representatives of the military 

services and DoD agencies as well as subject matter 

experts from the Office of the Under Secretary of 

Defense for Intelligence and the Personnel Security 

Research Center. In conjunction with the needs 

assessment study, the Committee identified topics 

and high-level content for 15 graduate-level courses 

and one undergraduate course to be developed 

as the CDSE Education Division Curriculum. 

Course Design and Development

High-level design of five courses was completed 

in FY11, and further development, to include 

implementation and evaluation, continues in FY12. 

The first graduate-level CDSE course, “Challenges in 

Analyzing and Managing Risk,” was developed and 

beta tested in FY11. 

CDSE Credits Transferable to Colleges and 

Universities

During FY11, CDSE prepared documentation for 

submission of four existing courses to ACE for 

review to seek ACE CREDIT recommendations at 

the undergraduate level. Recognized by colleges 

and universities throughout the U. S. and worldwide, 

ACE CREDIT recommendations will allow students 

to transfer CDSE course credits and apply them 

towards completing degree requirements at 

participating colleges and universities. 

Accreditation

The Education Division coordinates CDSE efforts 

to maintain accreditation through the Council 

on Occupational Education. In future years, 

CDSE Education Division will seek an additional 

accreditation from a regional accrediting authority 

recognized by the Department of Education.

Develop Education for Leaders in the DoD Security Community
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 9 

Conduct 2011 DoD Worldwide & European Security Conferences

The Center for Development of Security Excellence 

(CDSE) hosted two security conferences in FY11. In 

addition, attendees were afforded the opportunity 

to attend pre- and post-SPēD Sessions. Attendee 

critiques indicated that events were valuable, 

productive and successful.

Successes

2011 DoD European Security Conference 

and SPēD Sessions

CDSE hosted the first DoD-sponsored European 

Security Conference & SPēD Sessions in GarmischPartenkirchen, Germany, May 9–12, 2011. The 

theme of the conference was “Integrated Security 

in the European Environment” and was executed 

through 24 plenary and breakout sessions. The 

agenda focused on defining requirements and 

discussing best practices to establish a better 

foundation for developing integrated security 

programs. Total attendance was more than 110 

security professionals within the European Theater. 

Furthermore, attendees had the opportunity to 

sit for the Security Fundamentals Professional 

Certification (SFPC).

2011 DoD Worldwide Security Conference 

and SPēD Sessions

During August 22–26, 2011, DoD security 

professionals from across the globe converged in 

Lake Buena Vista, Fla., for the CDSE-hosted 2011 

DoD Worldwide Security Conference & SPēD 

Sessions. The theme was “Partnership for Global 

Security.” Mr. Stan Sims, Director of the Defense 

Security Service and sponsor of the conference, 

welcomed attendees with opening remarks. 

The conference offered 41 plenary and breakout 

sessions. The conference was attended by 484 midto senior-level security professionals. Additionally, 

security professionals tested their knowledge in 

various security disciplines by taking the Security 

Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) 

and Beta version of the Security Asset Protection 

Professional Certification (SAPPC). 

Russell Travers discusses the challenges that organizations 

face in the wake of WikiLeaks at the 2011 DoD European 

Security Conference.

Speakers at the 2011 DoD Worldwide Security Conference
10 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

Enhance Student Experience through Social Media & Upgraded LMS

In FY11, the Center for Development of Security 

Excellence (CDSE) established a social media 

vision of utilizing internet-based capability tools to 

further elaborate communication and collaboration 

opportunities between CDSE and the DoD 

security community. Also in an effort to improve 

student interactions, CDSE upgraded its Learning 

Management System (LMS).

Successes

Internet-Based Capabilities Implemented

After developing a Social Media Strategy Plan, the 

Center for Development of Security Excellence 

(CDSE) registered with the DoD Social Media Directory 

to implement the following social media sites: 

Twitter @ChTngCDSE – Includes news 

regarding course offerings, new products 

and other security training information.

Twitter @ProfDivCDSE – Includes news 

regarding SPēD and CDSE outreach events.

Twitter @EdDivCDSE – Includes news, 

events, and education programs for leaders 

in the DoD security community.

Twitter @DoDSecConf – Postings include 

news regarding DoD Security Conferences.

Facebook CDSE-Center for Development 

of Security Excellence – Postings include 

announcements of events, access to 

resources such as CDSE brochures, booklets 

and posters, and links to social media-related 

OPSEC best practices.

YouTube Channel DSS-CDSE – Delivers 

video learning content and announcements. 

The CDSE Facebook page

Learning Management System (LMS) Upgrade

CDSE made a concerted effort to address the 

security community’s comments, perceptions, 

and recommendations regarding CDSE’s LMS, 

Educational Network Registration and Online 

Learning (ENROL). The result — a redesigned LMS 

with streamlined customer interaction, easier user 

navigation, one-step student registration, and 

enhanced capability to support SPēD testing both 

in CONUS and OCONUS. These features and others 

are part of CDSE’s continuous LMS improvement 

effort branded Security Training, Education, and 

Professionalization Portal (STEPP). 

The new STEPP website logo
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 11 

Support to Operation New Dawn

In FY11, the Center for Development of Security 

Excellence (CDSE) traveled to Iraq in support of 

Operation New Dawn. CDSE provided training on the 

personnel security investigation and adjudication 

process to 40 Iraqi citizens from May 13 to June 

15, 2011, at the National Security Clearance Office 

(NSCO), Baghdad, Iraq. 

Successes

Progress towards a Stable Government 

Structure

This was the culmination of a long coordination 

process that began in August 2010 when DSS 

received a request from the U.S. Embassy and J2 

Forward (Intelligence Directorate) in Iraq to provide 

personnel security investigation and adjudication 

process training. As a result of this training, the Iraq 

government can develop a personnel security system 

to investigate, clear and vet Iraqi nationals who will 

contribute to building a stable government structure. 

Overcoming Cultural, Language, and Security 

Challenges

Teaching in Iraq required instructors to be flexible 

and innovative. Because the instructors’ experience 

in investigations was limited to an adjudicator 

perspective, this was their first opportunity to teach 

investigation techniques. Despite the challenge, 

they were able to deliver the instruction efficiently. 

Instructors also needed to adjust to language 

differences. An interpreter was required during 

training and throughout the instructors’ travels 

in Iraq. Course materials were translated prior 

to instructor arrival, yet further interpretation 

was often needed. Though security was effective 

around the international zone, frequent rocket 

attacks halted or delayed student and instructor 

travel to and from NSCO.

Positive Results

Despite several challenges, training was eagerly 

received by the students. The NSCO voiced a clear 

interest in continuing relations with CDSE, and they 

would like to take more courses, either online or 

instructor-led. 

DSS Director Stan Sims (middle) stands with Andrew Reyes (left) 

and Walter Hayward (right), the instructors who taught in Iraq. 

In recognition of participation in Operation New Dawn, CDSE was 

presented a flag flown over the International Zone in Baghdad, Iraq.
12 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

Enhance Instructor-Led Training

Instructors from the Center for Development of 

Security Excellence (CDSE) traveled around the 

country and overseas to conduct mobile training. 

Based on feedback from the security community, 

CDSE made several enhancements and new 

developments to instructor-led courses. 

Successes

Speakers for Security Events

The CDSE provided speakers to support meetings, 

conferences, and seminars:

•	 2011 European Security Conference

•	 2011 DoD Worldwide Security Conference

•	 National and local NCMS events

•	 Industrial Security Awareness Council 

meetings and seminars

•	 National Security Institute IMPACT 2011 

Conference

Security Specialist Course Revitalized

The DoD Security Specialist Course underwent its 

first major transformation since the introduction of 

a number of web-based prerequisite courses. The 

transformation included a complete re-write of course 

objectives and examinations, and more hands-on 

practical exercises were added. In addition, the course 

was restructured into a two-phase course with an online portion as Phase I and the instructor-led portion as 

Phase 2. This improved blended learning environment 

is designed to ensure students return to their duty 

location ready to perform various security functions.

FY11 Mobile Classes 

In FY11, the CDSE Training Division conducted 38 

mobile classes and 62 resident classes. Compared 

to FY10, this reflects a slight decrease (14%) in mobile 

classes and a 32% increase in resident classes. 

Personnel Security and JPAS/JCAVS Combined

CDSE has combined the Joint Personnel Adjudication 

System/Joint Clearance and Access Verification 

System (JPAS/JCAVS) and DoD Personnel Security 

Seminar courses into an introductory-level course 

covering both areas. Students can now complete their 

personnel security and JPAS/JCAVS training needs

in one visit instead of attending two training events.

New Physical Security Course

The “Applying Physical Security Concepts” instructorled course is the newest addition to the physical 

security curriculum and is being rolled out this 

year. This course will involve significant application 

of risk management processes to analyze assets, 

threats, and vulnerabilities; calculate risks; and 

determine physical security countermeasures. The 

application of risk management culminates in writing 

justifications for physical security equipment and/or 

measures, preparing input for a statement of work 

for the acquisition process, and developing a physical 

security plan for a DoD facility or installation.

Scheduling Classes at Your Location

CDSE can provide mobile courses to varying 

locations. To request a mobile course, please 

visit www.dss.mil/seta/cdse_mobile.html.

• Single Mobile Class • Two or More Mobile Classes
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 13 

Deploy Simulation Capabilities in a Virtual Environment

The Center for Development of Security Excellence 

(CDSE) is continuing to develop courses within a 

Virtual Performance Environment that provide 

students an opportunity to learn and practice 

security tasks and procedures in safe but realistic 

simulated surroundings. 

Successes

Launch of Physical Security Assessment within 

a Virtual Environment

This assessment will serve as a capstone for the 

online physical security courses offered by CDSE 

and provide an opportunity for learners to apply 

their knowledge in a realistic, three dimensional 

environment. This exercise will require the students 

to evaluate a number of different areas located 

on the fictional installation, Fort Bravo, identify 

physical security deficiencies and, in most cases, 

identify what corrective measures are required 

to bring the environment into compliance with 

physical security regulatory requirements or those 

requirements contained in the installation physical 

security plan. 

Areas to be evaluated include the installation 

perimeter; a general office area; an arms room; an 

arms, ammunition, and explosives storage area; a 

vault used for storage and processing of classified 

information; and a nuclear weapons storage area. 

Students will have the opportunity to visit the areas 

using an avatar and examine everything from a 

simulated classified document lying on a desk to an 

arms room storing small arms. Virtual assessments 

have already been developed for the Storage 

Containers and Facilities Practical Exercise.

Praise for Virtual Environments

Feedback indicates students are very receptive 

to the use of virtual technology in the learning 

environment as it allows them to put what they 

have learned through the online courses into motion 

in a simulation environment. 

Award Winning Course

The simulation in the Storage Containers and Facilities 

Course has been awarded a 2010 Silver Horizon 

Award (Government Category), and a 2010 Silver

Omni Award (Government and Education Categories).

In virtual performance environments, students navigate 

avatars through simulated physical security areas.
14 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

Introduce Short-Format eLearning Courses

Recognizing the time demands all security 

professionals face, the Center for Development of 

Security Excellence (CDSE) has started producing 

training shorts that are usually 10 minutes or less. 

These “Security Shorts” allow security professionals 

to refresh their knowledge of a critical topic or 

quickly access information needed to complete 

a job. CDSE plans to develop additional “Security 

Shorts” in FY12.

Successes

In 2011, CDSE released six Security Shorts:

Counterintelligence Concerns for National 

Security Adjudicators 

Provides learners an opportunity to practice 

recognition of counterintelligence concerns relevant 

to the performance of their job tasks and raises 

awareness of these issues and their importance in 

the context of the adjudication process. 

Classified Storage Requirements 

Learners receive a refresher course on requirements 

and best practices for storing classified information 

and complete exercises applying this knowledge. 

Special Access Program (SAP) Security Incidents

Allows learners to practice categorizing SAP security 

incidents and choose the best actions to take

in response. 

Business Structures - KMP: To Clear or Not to Clear

Gives learners an opportunity to practice identifying 

Key Management Personnel (KMP) in different 

business structures. Reinforces information taught 

in a web-based prerequisite to the Fundamentals of 

Industrial Security Level 2 Course (FISL 2). 

Antiterrorism Force Protection

Learners receive a refresher course on the four DoD 

Threat Levels and five Force Protection Condition 

(FPCON) levels. The training provides learners an 

opportunity to see some of the typical FPCON 

security measures employed in various contexts. 

You’re a New FSO: Now What?

Provides newly appointed FSOs a high-level overview 

of their responsibilities, guides them to essential 

resources, and introduces the CDSE Facility Security 

Officer (FSO) training curricula (a suite of 16 webbased courses for possessing facilities and a suite of 

12 web-based courses for non-possessing facilities). 

See the CDSE

“Security Shorts” at 

 http://www.dss.mil/

cdse/shorts
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 15 

Enhance Training for DSS Industrial Security Program Personnel

Based on security community feedback, the Center 

for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE) 

made several enhancements to industrial security 

courses and also developed new courses. 

Successes

Increased Industrial Security Program Completions 

CDSE invested much effort in both levels of the 

Fundamentals of Industrial Security (FIS) training 

program. FIS Level 1 (FISL 1) introduces new Industrial 

Security Representatives (IS Reps) and Information 

Systems Security Professionals (ISSPs) to the 

basic knowledge and skills required to perform 

their new jobs. After completing a number of 

inspections, course-related activities, and learning 

assignments, the FIS Level 2 (FISL 2) Course brings 

IS Reps and ISSPs to the DSS Academy to practice 

the knowledge and skills acquired in FISL 1. The FISL 

1 and 2 completions increased in FY11 with 99 FISL 1 

and 87 FISL 2 completions. 

Launch of Certification & Accreditation Course

The Certification and Accreditation (C&A) portion 

of FISL 2 became an independent course in FY11. The 

C&A course prepares students to independently 

conduct security inspections of single-user standalone, multi-user stand-alone, and simple peer-topeer information systems in low to medium-risk 

possessing facilities. There were 87 C&A course 

completions in FY11. 

Deployment of Online Collaborative Learning 

Environment 

CDSE tested and deployed an online collaborative 

learning environment to facilitate the assignment, 

submission, and grading of the Certification and 

Accreditation prerequisite activities. The collaborative 

learning environment has improved communication 

between students and instructors, and automated 

the assignment and assessment procedures. 

New DSS Employee Online Training

Products Deployed in FY11

•	 Understanding Foreign Ownership, 

Control or Influence (FOCI) 

•	 Introduction to the National Industrial 

Security Program (NISP) Certification 

and Accreditation Process Course

•	 Technical Implementation of 

Certification and Accreditation 

(C&A) – Configuration to DSS 

Standard Environment

•	 NISP Certification and Accreditation

Process: A Walk-Through Course

Scott Conway, Sector Security Director, Northrop Grumman, 

addresses a FISL 2 graduating class.
16 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

Expand eLearning Offerings

The Center for Development of Security Excellence 

(CDSE) produced several new online courses, 

performance support tools, and podcasts in FY11. 

Successes

eLearning Product Growth Continues 

This year, CDSE developed 21 eLearning courses, 

seven podcasts, and 13 performance support tools. 

See pages 18-21 for product listings. 

Performance Support Tools 

Performance support tools assist security 

professionals or part-time security specialists and 

can take a variety of forms or modalities, including 

job aids, documentation, audio prompts, help 

systems, software tools, and task guides. The CDSE 

produced nine performance support tools this year. 

Podcasts

Producing podcasts was a new effort in FY11, and 10 

web-based courses were converted to this format. 

Podcasts provide students the opportunity to access 

content on the go if they desire, either for an initial 

learning opportunity or for a refresher. While this 

is only a supplemental opportunity for some, other 

learners prefer to primarily receive information 

orally. After listening to a podcast, students are 

able to take the same test that accompanies the 

more traditional eLearning format. 

Award Winning Courses

CDSE eLearning courses earned 12 awards, including 

the Department of Defense Counterintelligence 

and Human Intelligence award, Omni awards, and 

Horizon awards. See page 22 for listings.

“These [CDSE online training] courses 

are great sources of information as 

reference tools, and they help us stay 

current on regulatory guidance.” 

Mike Copeland, Pentagon Force Protection Agency

eLearning Completions by Discipline *

Discipline FY11 eLearning Completions **

Personnel Security 44,007

Information Security 43,668

Industrial Security 39,383

Counterintelligence 27,310

General Security 14,427

Physical Security 9,693

Certification Programs 6,281

Special Access Program 3,981

DSS Internal Training 2,963 TOTAL 197,241

Operations Security 2,693

International Security 2,188 

Sensitive Compartmented Information 647 

* This chart reflects only eLearning courses and does not 

 include the 2,805 instructor-led course completions.

** Completion counts as of 10/01/2011
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 17 

Complete Transition of the FSO Curriculum

In FY11, the Center for Development of Security 

Excellence (CDSE) revised the Facility Security 

Officer (FSO) curriculum by eliminating the Essentials 

of Industrial Security Management (EISM) Course 

and replacing it with a suite of 11 online courses. 

Successes

CDSE completed the transition of the FSO Program 

Management Curriculum for Possessing Facilities and 

the FSO Orientation Curriculum for Non-Possessing 

Facilities. Both curricula comply with the training 

requirements stated in National Industrial Security 

Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) paragraph 

3-102. Successful completion of any of the previous 

versions of required NISPOM FSO training satisfies 

the current NISPOM FSO training requirement unless 

advised otherwise by a DSS IS Rep. 

Students enrolled in EISM as of September 30, 2011, 

were given 90 days to complete and receive credit 

for this course. If EISM could not be completed within 

90 days, the student would be required to complete 

the replacement suite of courses. EISM will no longer 

be available after January 31, 2012. The courses listed 

below supersede those listed in ISL 2010-01, Article 4.

EISM Replacement Courses

EISM has been replaced with the following 11 

courses:

•	 Introduction to Information Security (IS011.16)

•	 Industrial Security Facilities Database (ISFD) for 

External Users (IS111.06)

•	 Personnel Clearances in the NISP (IS142.16)

•	 JPAS/JCAVS Virtual Training for Security 

Professionals (PS123.16)

•	 Developing a Security Education Program 

(GS104.16)

•	 Understanding FOCI Basics (IS065.16)

•	 Integrating CI and Threat Awareness into your 

Security Program (CI010.16) •	

•	 Facility Clearances in the NISP (IS140.16)

•	 NISP Reporting Requirements (IS150.16)

•	 Visits/Meetings in the NISP (IS105.16)

•	 NISP Self Inspections (IS130.16)

NEW FSO Program Management Curriculum 

for Possessing Facilities 

•	 FSO Role in the NISP (IS021.06)

•	 EISM replacement courses

•	 Safeguarding Classified Information in the NISP 

(IS109.16)

•	 Derivative Classification (IF103.06)

•	 Marking Classified Information (IF105.16)

•	 Transmission and Transportation for Industry 

(IS107.16)

NEW FSO Orientation Curriculum for 

Non-Possessing Facilities

•	 FSO Role in the NISP (IS021.16)

•	 EISM replacement courses

These curricula are provided by CDSE and are 

available at http://go.usa.gov/BEL

NISPOM 3-102 requires that 

the FSO, and others performing 

security duties, complete 

security training based on their 

facility’s involvement with 

classified information and that 

this training should be completed 

within 1 year of appointment to 

the position of FSO.
18 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

CDSE Course List

Instructor-Led

General Security

•	 DoD Security Specialist

•	 Security Awareness for Educators (SAFE)

Industrial Security

•	 Fundamentals of Industrial Security Level 1 (FISL 1)

•	 Fundamentals of Industrial Security Level 2 (FISL 2)

•	 Getting Started Seminar for new FSOs

•	 NISPOM Chapter 8 Implementation

•	 NISPOM Ch. 8 Requirements for Industry Seminar

Information Security

•	 Information Security Management

•	 Information Security Orientation

•	 Information Security Seminar (Customized)

Personnel Security

•	 DoD Advanced Personnel Security Adjudications

•	 DoD Personnel Security Adjudications

•	 DoD Personnel Security Management for Security 

Professionals

•	 DoD Personnel Security Seminar

•	 Personnel Security Seminar (Customized) – 

Adjudication

•	 Personnel Security Seminar (Customized) – JPAS

Special Access Programs

•	 Introduction to Special Access Programs (SAPs)

•	 SAP Mid-Level Security Management

•	 SAP Security Awareness Seminar

•	 SAP Security Compliance Inspection Seminar

eLearning

Counterintelligence

•	 Insider Threat

•	 Integrating CI and Threat Awareness into Your 

Security Program

•	 Introduction to Critical Program Information 

Awareness 

•	 Thwarting the Enemy: Providing 

Counterintelligence and Threat Awareness to the 

Defense Industrial Base

General Security

•	 Antiterrorism Officer (ATO) Level II

•	 Developing a Security Education and Training 

Program

•	 Introduction to Risk Management

•	 Risk Management for DoD Security Programs

•	 Security Policies, Principles, and Programs

Industrial Security

•	 Basic Industrial Security for User Agency 

Personnel – Independent Study 

•	 Business Structures in the NISP

•	 Facility Clearances in the NISP

•	 FSO Role in the NISP

•	 How to Complete DD Form 254 Performance 

Support Guide

•	 Industrial Security Facilities Database (ISFD)

•	 Introduction to Industrial Security

•	 Introduction to the National Industrial Security 

Program (NISP) Certification & Accreditation Process

•	 NISP Reporting Requirements

•	 NISP Self-Inspection

•	 NISPOM Chapter 8 Requirements for Industry 

•	 Safeguarding Classified Information in the NISP

•	 Transmission and Transportation for Industry

•	 Understanding FOCI

•	 Visits and Meetings in the NISP

Information Security

•	 Classification Conflicts and Evaluations

•	 Derivative Classification

•	 DoD Information Assurance Awareness

* Courses in green are new FY11 courses.
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 19

CDSE Course List

•	 Emergency Planning

•	 Introduction to Information Security

•	 Marking Classified Information

•	 Original Classification

•	 Personally Identifiable Information (PII)

•	 Security Classification Guidance

•	 Transmission and Transportation for DoD

International Security 

•	 DoD Foreign Disclosure Orientation 

•	 Introduction to US Army Foreign Disclosure 

•	 Introduction to DoD Foreign Disclosure 

Operations Security

•	 OPSEC Awareness for Military Members, DoD 

Employees, and Contractors

Personnel Security

•	 e-QIP: Accessing and Navigation e-QIP

•	 e-QIP: Initiating Requests

•	 e-QIP: Managing Agency Data

•	 e-QIP: Managing User Data

•	 e-QIP: Overview

•	 e-QIP: Program and Business Managers

•	 e-QIP: Reviewing and Approving Requests

•	 e-QIP: Solutions to Common Issues

•	 Introduction to DoD Personnel Security 

Adjudication

•	 Introduction to National Security Adjudication

•	 Introduction to Personnel Security

•	 JPAS/JAMS Virtual Training for Security Professionals

•	 JPAS/JCAVS Virtual Training for Security Professionals

•	 Personnel Security Management

•	 Personnel Clearances in the NISP

Physical Security

•	 Introduction to Physical Security

•	 Lock and Key Systems

•	 Physical Security Measures

•	 Physical Security Planning and Implementation

•	 Storage Containers & Facilities 

Sensitive Compartmented Information

•	 Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) 

Refresher

Special Access Programs

•	 SAP 2nd Tier Review Process

•	 SAP Overview

Podcasts 

•	 Developing a Security Education and Training 

Program

•	 Introduction to Industrial Security

•	 Introduction to Information Security

•	 Introduction to Personnel Security

•	 Introduction to Physical Security

•	 Introduction to Risk Management

•	 Original Classification

•	 SAP Overview

•	 Transmission and Transportation for Industry

•	 Visits and Meetings in the NISP

Curriculum

•	 DoD Security Specialist Curriculum

•	 FSO Orientation for Non-Possessing Facilities

•	 FSO Program Management for Possessing 

Facilities

•	 Information Security Management Curriculum

•	 U.S. Army Foreign Disclosure Contact Officer 

Certification Curriculum

•	 U.S. Army Foreign Disclosure Officer 

Certification Curriculum

•	 U.S. Army Foreign Disclosure Orientation 

Curriculum

* Courses in green are new FY11 courses.
20 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

CDSE Product List

Performance Support Tools

•	 Accessing e-QIP

•	 Adding an Attachment – e-QIP

•	 Adjudicative Desk Reference

•	 Administrative Inquiry (AI) Job Aid for Industry

•	 Agency Help Desk Tasks – e-QIP

•	 AIS Security Seal Vendors and Guidelines

•	 Applicant Tips for Successful e-QIP Submission

•	 Approving a Request – e-QIP

•	 Approving Golden Question Reset Requests – e-QIP

•	 Assigning and Unassigning a Request – e-QIP

•	 Cancelling a Request – e-QIP

•	 Contractor Facility Security Office (FSO) Review 

of the Questionnaire of National Security 

Position (SF86)

•	 Counterintelligence Integration 

•	 Creating Agency Users – e-QIP

•	 Creating a Child Agency – e-QIP

•	 Deleting an Applicant – e-QIP

•	 Derivative Classification Training Job Aid

•	 Dissemination of Classified Information Within 

and Outside of the Executive Branch 

•	 DoD Personnel Security Adjudicator Certification 

Program: Due Process Credential Study Guide

•	 Editing Agency and Applicant Users – e-QIP

•	 Editing an AUB Template – e-QIP

•	 Elicitation – Can You Recognize It?

•	 Enabling TLS 1.0 – e-QIP

•	 Enhanced DD Form 254 with Popups

•	 e-QIP: How to Avoid Common Mistakes that 

Lead to Investigation Request Rejection

•	 Famous Spy Series 

•	 Finding Requests – e-QIP

•	 Foreign Travel Vulnerability

•	 Glossary Definitions, Acronyms and 

Abbreviations for Security Professionals

•	 A Guide for the Preparation of a DD Form 254

•	 How to Complete the DD Form 254 Performance 

Support Guide

•	 How to Complete Standard Form 86 (SF86) 

Questionnaire for National Security Positions: A 

Quick Reference Guide for the Accessions 

Community

•	 How to Receive and Maintain Your Security 

Clearance 

•	 Identifying the Government Customer When 

Requesting an Investigation

•	 Initiating a Request – e-QIP

•	 The International Visit Process

•	 IS Certification Test Guide

•	 JPAS Checklist

•	 Letter to Government (ISSM)

•	 Managing Agency Users – e-QIP

•	 Mass Initiating Requests – e-QIP

Famous Spy Series Performance Support Tool

* Courses in green are new FY11 courses.
Center for Development of Security Excellence http://cdse.dss.mil 21

CDSE Product List

•	 NOFORN/REL TO – A Quick Reference Guide to 

Two Dissemination Controls

•	 Preparing for Foreign Visitors 

•	 Procedural Guide for Conducting Classified 

Conferences 

•	 Procedures Governing Use of JPAS by Cleared 

Contractors

•	 Quick Reference Guide (QRG) for the Newly 

Updated SF-86

•	 Rapid Assessment of Incomplete Security 

Evaluations (RAISE) Guide

•	 Reference Tool for JPAS Release 3.2

•	 Requesting a Golden Question Reset – e-QIP

•	 Resource Tool for Security Professionals

•	 Reviewing a Request – e-QIP

•	 Roles and Responsibilities for Personnel Security: 

A Guide for Supervisors

•	 Running Reports – e-QIP

•	 Sample Audit Log

•	 Sample Memorandum of Understanding

•	 Security Education, Training and Awareness 

Information and Products

•	 Self-Inspection Handbook for NISP Contractors

•	 Sending a Rejection Letter – e-QIP

•	 SF-714 Financial Disclosure Form Quick 

Reference Guide 

•	 S&G 2740 Operating Instructions Job Aid

•	 Suspicious Letter or Package 

•	 Trusted Download Authorization

•	 Trusted Download Standard

•	 Un-cancelling Requests – e-QIP

•	 Using the e-QIP Fax Solution

•	 Viewing Case Status Messages and Case Notices 

– e-QIP

Security-Related 

Training Videos

•	 Changing the Combination of X-07 and X-09 

Locks

•	 How to Take Successful Electronic Fingerprints

•	 The Online Resource Tool for Security 

Professionals

•	 Operating X-07 and X-09 Locks

•	 Packaging Classified Documents

•	 Tips for e-QIP Submission

Security Shorts

•	 Business Structures - KMP: To Clear or Not to Clear

•	 Antiterrorism Force Protection

•	 Counterintelligence Concerns for National 

Security Adjudicators

•	 Special Access Program (SAP) Security Incidents 

•	 Classified Storage Requirements

•	 You’re a New FSO: Now What?

* Courses in green are new FY11 courses.

Tips for e-QIP Submission training video
22 http://cdse.dss.mil Center for Development of Security Excellence 

CDSE Award-Winning Courses

Defense Security Service (DSS) 

Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE)

Thwarting the Enemy: Providing Counterintelligence and Threat Awareness 

to the Defense Industrial Base

Omni, Gold, Education and Government

DoD CI and Human Intelligence (HUMINT) Award, CI Training & Education

Horizon, Silver, Education and Government

OPSEC Awareness for Military Members, DoD Employees, and Contractors

National OPSEC Award, Second Place, Multimedia Achievement Electronic

Defense Security Service (DSS) 

Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE) 

Integrating Counterintelligence and Threat Awareness Into Your Security Program

Omni, Bronze, Government 

Introduction to DoD Personnel Security Adjudication

Omni, Bronze, Education 

Storage Container and Facilities Practical Exercise

Omni, Silver, Education and Government 

Horizon, Silver, Government 

Special Access Program (SAP) Overview

Omni, Bronze, Education and Government

Defense Security Service Academy (DSSA) 

Business Structures in the National Industrial Security Program

Horizon, Bronze, Training and Government

FSO Role in the National Industrial Security Program

Omni, Bronze, Government 

Horizon, Bronze, Training and Government 

Transmission and Transportation for Industry

Omni, Bronze, Government 

Safeguarding Classified Information in the National Industrial Security Program

Omni, Silver, Government 

Omni, Bronze, Education 

Original Classification

Omni, Silver, Government 

Omni, Bronze, Education

Defense Security Service Academy (DSSA)

Business Structures in the National Industrial Security Program

Omni, Bronze, Education and Government 

2011

2010

2009

2008

* Courses in green received awards in FY11.
The editorial content of this publication was prepared, edited, and approved by the Director, Center for Development of 

Security Excellence. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense. To 

comment, contact the DSS Public Affairs Office at (571) 305-6751 or email dsspa@dss.mil.