The Officer Professional Development programme encompasses the period between enrolment/acceptance for officer training, to retirement from the Canadian Forces. CF Officer common training and education is marked by four distinct developmental periods which follow career progression from Ocdt to General/Flag Officers. Each development period contains core education and training consistent with the skills, values and attitudes for officers to serve in the CF.

Officer Professional Development Periods 1 to 4

Developmental Period

A Developmental Period is a time frame in one's career during which individuals, through a combination of training, experience and educational opportunities, increase their professional skills and knowledge.

Developmental Period 1

The Initial Assessment Program (IAP) and Basic Officer Training Program (BOTP) occur in Developmental Period (DP) 1 and are conducted by the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) for RMC, Direct Entry and Civilian Officer candidates.

Developmental Period 2

This period of development concentrates on officers enhancing their skill and knowledge through on-job training, self-study and formal courses. The OPME is a mandatory, centrally controlled activity which is a prerequisite for career progression.  Although OPME is a DP 2 requirement, many officers access and complete this qualification in DP 1.

Developmental Period 3

Professional development during this advanced period may involve formal development courses such as Command and Staff Course (CSC), Joint Staff Operations Course (JSOC) and Joint Reserve Command and Staff Course (JRCSC) as well as management courses and postgraduate studies. Formal professional development courses are held at Canadian Forces College.

Developmental Period 4

Development in this period concentrates on preparing officers for roles as joint and combined operations leaders and defence executives. Formal development courses include Advanced Military Studies Course (AMSC), National Securities Studies Course (NSSC) and National Security Studies Seminar held at Canadian Forces College.