UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 251459Z OCT 18 FM CNO WASHINGTON DC TO NAVADMIN INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS NAVADMIN 263/18 PASS TO OFFICE CODES: FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N1/OCT// SUBJ/UPDATE TO NAVY GRADUATE EDUCATION PROGRAM// RMKS/1. This NAVADMIN announces policy changes to in-residence graduate education (IRGE) programs for Unrestricted Line (URL) communities. The Navys Graduate Education Program supports our National Defense Strategy by developing Navy leaders who understand the art and science of warfighting and can lead in complex strategic environments. In-residence education programs provide the best opportunity to mature critical and/or strategic thinking skills. 2. Beginning in fiscal year 2019, administrative boards will screen the most fully qualified, due course officers for top-line, key competitive IRGE and in-residence Joint Professional Military Education opportunities, such as Naval War College, Naval Postgraduate School, Fleet Scholar Education Program, Olmstead Scholar and other similar programs. Tuition Assistance, Graduate Education Vouchers and other opportunities will remain available without the board selection requirement. 3. Starting with fiscal year 2020, statutory and administrative boards shall adhere to revised precept language that makes clear the Navys expectation that we invest in developing future Navy leaders as critical/strategic thinkers through attendance at IRGE programs. 4. Officers in year group 2015 and beyond will be required to graduate from an in-residence program prior to assuming Major Command. Officers will be able to screen for Major Command before completing the in-residence requirement to allow maximum career flexibility. For the purpose of this policy, IRGE is defined as a completion of a graduate degree or professional military education program allowing officers to dedicate time in an academic environment. The program may be funded through the Navy or self- funded. Distance learning degree programs and the compressed JPME Phase II course at Joint Forces Staff College will not count toward this requirement. 5. This message will remain in effect until superseded or canceled, whichever comes first. 6. Released by Vice Admiral R. P. Burke, N1.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//