 During the first year , the AOASF curriculum includes classroom investigation of the multinational , joint and interagency environment , and extensive travel to the U.S. Defense Department 's regional commands and headquarters . In the second year , students become instructors of an AMSP seminar or take up other positions in the school . This course focuses on the operational and strategic realms of war and prepares students for assignments as leaders and to serve in critical staff positions within combatant and service component commands . The course involves extensive travel , and the study of applied strategy , military theory , military history , strategic studies , campaign planning , regional studies , and practical work in joint planning . Fellows completing AOASF receive credit as a United States Army War College graduate , and typically serve in a follow @-@ on command assignment or work for a three- or four @-@ star general officer as a member of his or her staff . 
