What the Course Entails and Exam Details

The ACQ 1010 course covers a wide spectrum of topics essential to defense acquisition. Students will learn about the overarching structure of the Defense Acquisition System and the key decision-makers involved in the process.

The curriculum delves into the major phases of the acquisition lifecycle, from the initial identification of a capability need to the final disposal of the system.

Key areas include:

• Understanding the different acquisition pathways.

• The milestones and decision points within the lifecycle.

• The relationship between requirements, budgeting (PPBE process), and the acquisition process.

• Core concepts of program management, logistics, and systems engineering within the acquisition context.

• The importance of cost, schedule, and performance trade-offs.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The ACQ 1010 exam is typically administered online and assesses the student's understanding of the foundational concepts taught in the course.

The format is generally multiple-choice questions, requiring candidates to demonstrate their recall of key terms, processes, and the different stages of the acquisition lifecycle.

Candidates can expect the exam to be timed, although the specific duration and number of questions may vary based on the administering organization.

A passing score is required to successfully complete the certification, and students should be prepared for questions that test their ability to apply fundamental acquisition principles to hypothetical scenarios.

How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation for the ACQ 1010 exam requires a dedicated study plan focusing on the core course materials provided by the Defense Acquisition University (DAU).

Actionable Study Strategies:

• Thoroughly Review DAU Course Materials: The primary source for the exam is the DAU ACQ 1010 online course content. Devote significant time to reading the modules and understanding the key concepts.

• Utilize Practice Tests: Taking ACQ 1010 practice exams is crucial. This helps familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked and identifies areas where you need further review.

• Focus on Acronyms: Defense acquisition is full of acronyms. Creating flashcards or study sheets for key abbreviations (e.g., PPBE, JCIDS, MDAP) is highly recommended.

• Study Key Acquisition Documents: Understand the purpose of major documents like the Acquisition Strategy and the Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP).

• Form Study Groups: Collaborating with colleagues who are also preparing for the exam can reinforce your learning and provide new perspectives.

Exam Centers and Access: Because ACQ 1010 is a Defense Acquisition University (DAU) course, the exam is typically taken online through the DAU Virtual Campus. This allows DoD military, civilian personnel, and authorized contractors to take the exam from their work computers or other approved locations. There are generally no specific physical testing centers like Pearson VUE for this internal DoD requirement.

Job Opportunities from the Course

Earning the ACQ 1010 certification opens doors to various career paths within the defense acquisition sector. This foundational knowledge is valuable for many entry-level roles.

Job Opportunities Include:

• Junior Acquisition Program Manager

• Associate Contracting Officer (entry-level)

• Logistics Management Specialist

• Financial Management Specialist (supporting acquisition programs)

• Systems Engineering Analyst (supporting acquisition programs)

• Configuration Management Specialist

• Contract Specialist Trainee