How does State OCS work?

SPC (Join to see), in addition to the traditional state OCS program as most aptly described by MAJ (Join to see), there is an accelerated option available as well. The 200th Regiment (LDR) at Fort McClellan, AL is one of the premier regional training institutes (RTI) in the nation, and twice annually (January and June) they begin an accelerated 57 day program. Upon successful completion, officer candidates are commissioned second lieutenants. Officer candidates from all over the nation (and foreign countries) are accepted into and matriculate in this program. I tried to get the Alabama National Guard OCS link for you, but the site is down. I'll check back for it later, but accelerated OCS is also an option if you meet the criteria, have the time and wish to "get it over with"! CPT (Join to see)

The purpose of the 18-20 months of training is to complete the required 580 hours (approximate) of required training from the OCS curriculum part time. The Branch or MOS will be based on the State's Force Structure; you will have to select 3 Branches and the needs of the state will dictate what you recieve. You can always acquire another branch qualification after First Lieutenant, Captain. The 60 credits is a minimum requirement; completion of your degree prior to commissioning or attendance at your Basic Officer Leadership Course, should be your goal. I earned over 90 credits prior to attendance at OCS and completed 5 classes after graduation and before attendance at my Branch Training. Life can get in the way, so complete as much of your degree before OCS. Worst case scenario is you take the whole time before promotion to 1LT to graduate. This will give you a buffer and ensure you have your degree before promotion to CPT.
Feel free to email me for more information as I just completed 3 years as a Platoon Trainer at OCS in September 15.

CPT Kane

I completed the accelerated program and agree with CPT Kane that this afforded me the opportunity to really focus on my other responsibilities and continue to pursue my goal of commissioning. I also agree with LTC Curlee that the Alabama Guard is top notch at completing OCS.