MCO 1524.2 — Marine Corps Doctor Of Philosophy Program (phdp)

MCO 1524.2 governs policies and procedures for selecting, educating, employing, and retaining officers in the Marine Corps Doctor of Philosophy Program.

Search MCO 1524.2

  • Publication number: MCO 1524.2
  • Title: MARINE CORPS DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY PROGRAM (PHDP)
  • Date: 19 May 2021
  • Proponent: 01000 Military Personnel
  • Status: New

View MCO 1524.2 on armypubs.army.mil


MCO 1524.2 addresses PHDP selection, academic prerequisites, orders, funding, utilization assignments, service obligations, and professional military education. It establishes strategic and technical doctoral tracks with eligibility, education, reporting, and funding requirements.

Topics covered

  • Marine Corps Doctor of Philosophy Program
  • PHDP selection
  • Strategic PHD Track
  • Technical PHD Track
  • Academic prerequisites
  • Doctoral program funding
  • Utilization assignments
  • Service obligation

Questions and answers

How does MCO 1524.2 fund the PHDP?

The PHDP is a fully funded program. The Marine Corps will pay all tuition and required academic fees. (paragraph 9)

Can PHDP school assignments be extended for failed courses or low grades?

Assignment to school will not be extended for the purpose of making up failed courses, improving low grades, or taking additional course work unrelated to the specific degree program enrolled. (paragraph 2)

What service obligation applies to officers in the PHDP?

Officers applying for the PHDP must agree not to tender resignation, separation, or retirement while participating in the program, see reference (m). (paragraph 1-1)

What happens if a member fails to complete the required active duty period?

A member who voluntarily, or through misconduct, fails to complete the active duty period agreed upon shall be required to reimburse the cost of the education received, prorated for the obligated time served. (paragraph 1-1)

Are Marine Corps officers allowed to fly military aircraft while attending school?

Flying military aircraft for operational or training purposes is not permitted for the periods during school attendance. (paragraph 7)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about MCO 1524.2