About the Program

Course Start Dates

North Carolina
  • November 1, 2008
  • February 21, 2009
  • April 18, 2009
  • July 18, 2009
  • September 12, 2009
  • November 14, 2009
Southern California
  • October 4, 2008
  • December 6, 2008
  • January 10, 2009
  • March 14, 2009
  • May 16, 2009
  • August 15, 2009
  • October 17, 2009

Our Mission

To provide a unique educational experience for Marines, Officer and Enlisted, Active and Reserve, that accelerates entry and adaptation to the private sector.  Designed to build on critical skills developed in the Marine Corps, this program provides participants with the knowledge, tools and techniques for a successful transition.

Vision

To recognize…

  • The exceptional qualities of the U.S. Marine
  • The value of the skill set developed in the Marine Corps
  • The challenges in adapting those skills to the private sector

To refine…

  • Critical skills... that provide a competitive edge in the civilian work force
  • Knowledge... that speeds adjustment to the business environment
  • Tools and techniques... to successfully transition to the private sector

To reward…

  • Marines... by providing this opportunity to all selected participants at no cost
  • Supporting companies…by facilitating direct access to highly qualified candidates

Concept

This is ultimately a program of Marines helping Marines. It operates as a not-for-profit corporation (Marine Civilian Development Program, Inc.) funded by the Lerner Foundation and sponsored by Mr. Randy Lerner (owner of the Cleveland Browns) and General Charles C. Krulak, USMC, Ret. (31st Commandant of the Marine Corps). Supported by the U. S. Marine Corps and staffed with former Marine and civilian professional educators, the Program delivers tailored courses providing comprehensive transition education that will accelerate an offer of employment and the Marine’s successful adaptation to the private sector. The Program is offered at no cost to the Marine Corps, to the Marine participants or to the companies that provide employment opportunities for Marines completing the Program.

Program Details

The Marine Civilian Development Program is an intense program of instruction that consists of three separate courses. The Scarlet Course, a four-day program, is designed for high school graduates. The Gold Course, a six-day program, is designed for college graduates (Officer and Enlisted). There is also a one and a half day program for the spouses of all selected participants. All courses of instruction are offered in North Carolina and Southern California.

Eligibility Requirements

Marines, Officer and Enlisted, Active and Reserve who meet the following requirements may apply for the Marine Civilian Development Program:

  • High school graduates completing four to six years of service
  • College graduates completing four to eight years of service
  • Within six months of EAS at time of participation
  • Seeking a career in the private sector
  • High potential for success in the private sector
  USMC