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Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for?
Contact CGSC Help Desk - For programmatic support
- Voice: (717)491-1003 or 1(833)289-6137
- Chat: cgss-support@asu.edu
- Email: cgsc.armyu.asu.edu/portal/support
Contact Your Cohort Advisor - For academic guidance
Contact your Instructor – For block and lesson guidance
Common Core
What is CGSOC ADL Common Core?
CGSOC ADL (Advanced Distributed Learning) Common Core is the distance learning version of the Command and General Staff Officer Course. The program educates and trains field grade leaders to serve as staff officers and commanders with the ability to build teams, lead organizations, and integrate Multi-Domain Operations with Joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational partners in complex and uncertain environments.
How long does the program take to complete?
The complete program takes 12 months, divided into three four-month phases:
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Phase I: Foundation (Months 1-4)
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Phase II: Strategic & Joint Framework (Months 5-8)
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Phase III: Integration & Mastery (Months 9-12)
Each phase contains three courses that must be completed sequentially.
How many courses are in the program?
The program consists of 9 courses total—3 courses per phase. Each course builds systematically on previous content to deepen understanding and application.
Can I complete the program at my own pace?
The program offers flexible learning methods within each four-month phase to accommodate diverse learning styles and schedules. However, you must complete each phase sequentially before advancing to the next. Specific assignment deadlines apply within each course.
What are the technical requirements?
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Reliable internet connection
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Computer with current web browser
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Mobile device for Duo Mobile authentication app
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Access to Army University Learning Platform (powered by Arizona State University)
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CAC Access – F11
Is this program equivalent to resident CGSOC?
Yes. CGSOC ADL Common Core provides the same learning outcomes and credentials as the resident program. Upon completion, you'll receive a CGSOC diploma and DA Form 1059-2.
Advanced Operations Course
How does AOC differ from Common Core?
There are two main differences.
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While Common Core is delivered asynchronously, AOC involves synchronous learning through regularly scheduled meetings. You will act as a member of a staff to learn and exercise planning at echelon.
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While Common Core provides foundational knowledge across all CGSC learning areas. AOC focuses on operational-level leadership, historical context, and division/corps staff operations with extensive practical application.
Do I need to complete Common Core before AOC?
Yes. AOC builds directly on Common Core concepts.
Can I complete AOC while on active duty?
Yes. AOC is designed for working professionals, but practicum exercises require sustained availability over multiple days. Coordinate with your unit for scheduling.
What technology do I need?
Same as Common Core:
Do I need to complete the blocks in order?
Yes. The progression is deliberate and sequential.
How long does AOC take
AOC takes 35 weeks plus registration
Can I complete AOC at my own pace?
No. This class is delivered face to face. You will be acting as part of a staff to learn and exercise military planning concepts.
Is there an asynchronous alternative to AOC
No. This class is only offered in a synchronous mode.
What is my weekly time commitment
You should expect to spend about eight hrs. per week on this course.
Enrollment & Registration
How do I enroll in the program?
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Verify your eligibility with Student Operations
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Register in ATRRS at least 1 week before course start date
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Complete ASU onboarding within 5 days of receiving your invitation email
Am I eligible for CGSOC ADL?
According to AR 350-1, all students must complete CGSOC within five years of becoming promotable. Contact your schools personnel for verification of eligibility.
When do courses start?
For Common Core, cohorts start monthly.
For AOC, cohorts start three times per year. Check ATRRS for upcoming start dates and available cohorts.
What if I miss the enrollment deadline?
Students who miss enrollment or onboarding deadlines will be moved to the next available cohort. Contact Student Operations immediately if you're having difficulty meeting deadlines—they serve as your advocate throughout the enrollment process.
Can I enroll if I'm deployed?
Yes…as long as you have the digital connectivity and the time. CGSOC is a significant commitment. Discuss the requirements with your unit commander if facing a deployment
ASU Onboarding & Access
What is ASU onboarding and why is it required?
The Army University Learning Platform is powered by Arizona State University. ASU onboarding creates your account, verifies your identity, and grants access to course materials. You cannot access courses without completing onboarding. This is a time-sensitive process that must be completed within 5 days of receiving your invitation.
When will I receive my ASU onboarding email?
You'll receive your ASU onboarding email 7 days before the course start date. Look for an email from an @asu.edu address—this is your official invitation.
What do I need to do during ASU onboarding?
See the ASU onboarding instructions on the help page.
I didn't receive my ASU onboarding email. What should I do?
- Check your spam/junk folders for emails from @asu.edu
- Verify your ATRRS enrollment is complete and your email address is correct
- Contact ASU Onboarding Help Desk immediately
Time is critical—you have only 5 days to complete onboarding once the email is sent.
What is Duo Mobile and why do I need it?
Duo Mobile is a two-factor authentication app required for secure access to the Army University Learning Platform. It adds an extra layer of security to protect your account and course materials. Download it from your device's app store (iOS or Android) during the onboarding process.
What happens if I don't complete onboarding by the deadline?
ASU onboarding closes 2 days before the course start date. Students who don't complete onboarding by the 5-day deadline will be moved to the next cohort. Don't wait—complete onboarding as soon as you receive the invitation email.
I'm having trouble with the onboarding process. Who can help?
Contact ASU Support for immediate technical assistance with:
- Onboarding steps
- Login issues
- Duo Mobile setup
- Platform access problems
Course Information
Why are there three phases?
The phases are there to provide you with flexibility. Life happens. We get it. The phases allow you to structure your attendance around those events.
Can I take courses out of order?
No. Courses must be completed sequentially as each builds on previous content. You must complete all three courses in Phase I before moving to Phase II, and all Phase II courses before Phase III.
How are courses delivered?
Courses use multiple instructional approaches including:
You can choose from various learning methods to accommodate your learning style and schedule.
Academic Support
What is a cohort advisor?
A cohort advisor is an experienced instructor assigned to your group during Phase I who provides guidance, support, and assistance throughout the initial phase. They help with academic questions, course navigation, progress monitoring, and any difficulties you encounter. Your advisor serves as your advocate for student success.
When will I meet my cohort advisor?
Your cohort advisor will reach out to you on day one. Their contact information will be provided through the learning platform.
How do I contact my cohort advisor?
Your cohort advisor's contact information will be provided during Phase I orientation. You can reach them through the learning platform messaging system or via the contact information provided in your course materials.
What if I'm struggling with course material?
Contact your cohort advisor immediately. They're there to help you succeed and can:
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Provide academic guidance
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Clarify course requirements
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Connect you with additional resources
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Help develop strategies for success
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Advocate on your behalf if needed
Don't wait until you're behind—reach out early when you need assistance.
Are there study groups or peer collaboration opportunities?
At this time, we do not have that capability.
Time Commitment & Workload
How many hours per week should I expect to study?
Time commitment varies by week, course, and your experience. You should expect to dedicate an average of about six hours per week in Common Core and eight hours per week in AOC. Consistency is key to success. Dedicate a daily or weekly time to study and keep to it!
Can I work full-time while completing this program?
Yes. The program is designed for working military professionals. Flexible learning methods and schedules accommodate full-time duty requirements. However, you must plan adequate study time and manage your schedule effectively.
What if I have a deployment or TDY during the program?
Contact your cohort advisor and Student Operations as soon as you know about potential conflicts. They can discuss options. Early communication is essential.
Are there specific times I need to be online?
Not in the ADL program. While some courses may have synchronous elements, these are optional.
Records & Documentation
What do I receive upon graduation?
Upon successful completion, you'll receive:
How long does it take to receive my diploma after completion?
Student Operations processes diplomas and DA Form 1059-2 upon verification of course completion. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks after program completion.
How do I request a transcript?
Contact Student Operations to request official transcripts. They process all academic records for CGSOC ADL students.
Will CGSOC completion appear in my military records?
Yes. Upon completion, your CGSOC diploma is recorded in your official military records.
How do I update my contact information?
Contact the DDE help desk for assistance updating contact information.
Technical Issues
I can't access the learning platform. What should I do?
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Verify you completed ASU onboarding successfully
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Check your internet connection
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Clear your browser cache and cookies
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Try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge recommended)
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Ensure pop-ups are not blocked
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Contact the CGSC Help Desk if problems persist
Who do I contact for technical problems?
ASU Support - For:
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ASU onboarding issues
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Login credentials
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Duo Mobile authentication
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Platform technical problems
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Course access issues
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Learning platform problems
CGSC Help Desk - For:
What browsers are supported?
The Army University Learning Platform works best with current versions of:
Ensure your browser is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.
The course materials won't load. What's wrong?
This could be due to:
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Browser compatibility issues
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Outdated browser version
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Pop-up blockers preventing content
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Firewall or network restrictions
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Slow internet connection
Try a different browser first, then contact the CGSC Help Desk if problems continue.
Can I access the platform from a government computer?
Yes. You can access the Learning Management System (LMS) from government or civilian computers. Our goal is to make this course as flexible as possible.
Completion & Graduation
What are the graduation requirements?
For Common Core, you must:
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Successfully complete all 9 courses (3 per phase)
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Pass all course assessments with a TRI B or better
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Maintain satisfactory academic standing throughout
What happens if I can't complete a phase on time?
Contact your cohort advisor and Student Operations immediately if you're at risk of not completing a phase. They can discuss options
Can I take a break between phases?
Yes. Although phases are designed to be completed sequentially to maintain learning continuity, you can pause your studies.
What if I fail a course?
If you receive a TRI C, contact student operations for a way ahead. They'll work with you to determine next steps.