FA49 has ACS slots to ensure its officers have learned the tools for our trade. If FA49 has not paid for a MS degree for you, then you could still be eligible for a full-time degree program.

While the GRE is a normal part of the application process, not all schools and programs require it. You should submit an application if you're interested and indicate when you will take the test, and based on the overall strength of your packet and interests, you could still be assessed as a strong graduate candidate.

No. Who told you that? While every individual officer's situation is different, I would point out that the significant majority of our officers have attended graduate education to help them gain the skills to be an effective ORSA. If you're not sure how ACS could work in your timeline, please feel free to reach out to the FA49 PPO officer or a senior ORSA in your organization.

VTIP applicants who possess the GrADSO Option must be willing to pursue a graduate degree in an ORSA-related discipline.

FA49 officers who possess non-ORSA advanced degree obtained via GrADSO are eligible to apply for ACS to pursue a degree in an ORSA-related discipline.

Yes. The FA49 branch is one of the Army’s most supportive of Advanced Civil Schooling (ACS). Officers may apply for fully funded Master’s or Ph.D. programs in operations research, data science, or related fields.

Per the guidance in the VTIP MILPER, you may still apply for VTIP as an ETP. In general, the primary difference between an ETP and “normal” application is the submission process. ETP applications are submitted directly to the FA49 Proponent via email (usarmy.pentagon.hqda-dcs-g-8.list.fa49-ppo@mail.mil). However, you will need convey to the VTIP Panel that you are “exceptionally qualified” via your Memorandum for Record (MFR). Your MFR should highlight the academic and professional qualifications, as well as the knowledge, skills, and behaviors, that qualify you for service as an ORSA.

If you are currently serving, or projected to serve, a utilization tour as a follow-on to a particular opportunity (ACS, TWI, USMA Bluebook, etc.) with greater that one year remaining, you may technically still apply for VTIP. However, the VTIP Panel is unlikely to approve your application.

Consider taking and/or highlighting certificates/classes/qualifications focused on Data Science or Data Analytics, specifically anything focused on artificial intelligence and/or machine learning. Additionally, develop and/or highlight foundational (or higher) skills using programming/scripting languages and analytic software such as R, R Shiny, Python, SAS, etc. All of this will enhance your chances for a successful VTIP and future success as an ORSA.

Yes. FA49 requires a GRE Quantitative Reasoning score in the 50th percentile or higher. Additionally, you will need to submit GRE scores if you intend to apply for a Master's or PhD program through FA49 and ACS. Go to the DANTES website for information regarding GRE reimbursement.

Operations Research / Systems Analysts (ORSAs), designated as Functional Area 49 (FA49), are the Army’s experts in advanced analytics. They apply mathematical modeling, statistics, data science, and wargaming to support commanders’ decision-making. ORSAs serve as trusted advisors who help leaders allocate resources, design operations, and assess risk using evidence-based methods.

ORSA officers generally have strong quantitative backgrounds, often with degrees in mathematics, engineering, economics, or the sciences. Many earn graduate degrees (MS or Ph.D.) in operations research, applied mathematics, or data science. They are expected to be skilled in statistics, modeling, and coding languages such as R or Python, while also bringing operational credibility from command or staff assignments.

Officers are typically accessed into FA49 through the Voluntary Transfer Incentive Program (VTIP) after completing company command or key developmental time in their basic branch. Candidates may also apply for Advanced Civil Schooling (ACS) during the process. Selection depends on Army manning needs, officer qualifications, and a competitive panel review.

The Voluntary Transfer Incentive Program (VTIP) is the mechanism for officers to transition into FA49. Officers submit applications through AIM2 (or via their proponent if an exception to policy is needed). Packets are reviewed by both the gaining and losing branches, then evaluated by an HRC panel. Panels are held once per fiscal year, and results are aligned with Army movement cycles.

The FA49 Qualification Course (Q-Course) is a 6-week course taught at ALU at Fort Lee, VA. The course is designed to expose officers to their broader analytic roles, wartime and operational analytic demands, and concepts of Army transformation; to educate analysts that can lead, plan, execute, and communicate analysis plans, actions, and results; and develop leaders that can improve analytic operations across the Department of Defense. FA49 officers typically attend the Q-Course before or during their second ORSA assignment. Smartbook DA PAM 600-3, Operations Research/Systems Analysis Functional Area establishes the requirement for all FA49 officers to complete the ILE Common Core Course and the Q-Course to receive full ILE and MEL 4 qualification.

The Operations Research/Systems Analysis – Military Application Course (ORSA-MAC) is a 14-week course taught at the Army Logistics University (ALU) at Fort Lee, VA. The course provides new FA49 officers knowledge and understanding of military applications of ORSA methodologies utilizing graduate-level texts and classroom presentations to emphasize principles, demonstrate techniques of analysis, and illustrate typical applications of the analytical techniques. All new FA49 officers are encouraged to attend ORSA-MAC. New FA49 officers who do not already possess an ORSA-related graduate degree, or who are not selected to attend graduate school via ACS are required to attend.

ORSAs tackle a wide range of problems such as force structure analysis, campaign and contingency planning, logistics optimization, personnel and budget resourcing, and operational assessments. They often use modeling, simulations, and statistical analysis to inform these complex decisions.

Most officers are assessed into FA49 as Captains (typically 5–8 years of service). However, Majors and Lieutenant Colonels can also transition if they meet Army requirements and bring relevant experience.

Yes. ORSAs can and do deploy with tactical units, corps, divisions, or specialized analytic teams. In deployed environments, they support commanders with real-time analysis, decision support, and operational assessments.

Assignments vary by echelon and billet but generally last 24–36 months. Officers can expect to rotate between tactical, operational, strategic, and joint assignments throughout their FA49 career.

ORSAs are expected to be proficient in analytic programming languages and tools such as R, Python, MATLAB, SQL, and specialized modeling or optimization software. They also leverage data visualization platforms to communicate insights effectively.

Within the Army, ORSAs focus on Army-specific force development, readiness, and operations. In the Joint Force, they apply their skills to broader Department of Defense challenges, working at Combatant Commands, the Joint Staff, and OSD to integrate Army perspectives into joint plans and strategies.

ORSAs can expect to serve in a mix of field, staff, and joint assignments. Senior ORSAs may be selected for battalion or brigade-level analytic leadership roles, assignments in the Pentagon, or fellowship programs. Many also compete for senior service colleges and high-visibility joint billets.

ORSAs serve across all echelons of the Army and the Joint Force — from division headquarters and corps commands to Army Staff, Army Commands, and even the Pentagon. They are also assigned to Joint Staff, Combatant Commands, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Their presence ensures data-driven decision support is available from the tactical level to the strategic enterprise.

Yes. The Army employs a large civilian analytic workforce at organizations such as the Center for Army Analysis (CAA), TRADOC Analysis Center (TRAC), and Army Materiel Systems Analysis Activity (AMSAA). ORSA officers often work closely with these civilian analysts.

ORSA officers gain advanced technical, analytical, and leadership skills that are highly valued in government agencies, industry, and academia. Many transition into roles in data science, operations research, policy analysis, consulting, or teaching after their Army careers.