The Public Affairs and Communication Strategy Qualification Course - Distance Learning (PACS-Q-DL) is a two-part course. Students must sign up for and complete both PACS-Q-DL-NR (Phase 1) and PACS-S DL-R (Phase 2) within the same fiscal year to receive a diploma. Phase 1 is a 24-week nonresident course delivered through distance learning, and Phase 2 is a two-week resident course conducted at 6500 Mapes Road, Ft. Meade, Md. 20755.

This course operates on a fiscal year schedule from October 1st to September 30th. All courses offered after October 1st of a particular year are considered part of the next fiscal year. For example, if a course begins Oct 1, 2025, it is listed under FY 2026.

For registration, please visit the Army Training Requirements and Resource System (ATRRS) at https://www.atrrs.army.mil **Please note that ATTRS requires an NIPR computer and CAC card.**

For assistance, please email: registrar@dinfos.edu

Course Description

PACS-Q DL (Distance Learning) provides entry-level public affairs training for the Department of War, U.S. government agencies, and selected foreign military professionals. Instruction focuses on the foundational elements of the communication planning process, principles and techniques associated with implementing effective communication strategies, and the processes involved in integrating communication into military planning and operations.

Prerequisites

DINFOS courses have specific requirements that define who can attend and what background or experience they need. Prerequisites are updated each fiscal year, and the most current details are listed below and on the ATRRS course pages.

PACS-Q-DL FY 26 

Course and service prerequisites and fiscal year 2026 course dates are available on the Public Affairs and Communication Strategy Qualification Distance Learning (PACS-Q DL) FY 26 information page.

PACS-Q-DL FY 27 

Course and service prerequisites and fiscal year 2027 course dates are available on the Public Affairs and Communication Strategy Qualification Distance Learning (PACS-Q DL) FY 27 information page.