The Joint and Combined Warfighting School produces graduates capable of creatively and effectively planning operational level warfighting for joint and combined military forces while integrating the effects of the United States Government, non-governmental organizations, and international organizations to ensure the success of Combatant and Joint Task Force Commanders operating within an uncertain operating environment.

If you desire a seat in a JCWS course, please contact your Service representative to inquire about quota availability.  Contact information is available via the "Contacts” page. 

For any additional information regarding JCWS, please contact the JFSC Registrar office at registrar2@ndu.edu or the JCWS Operations Officer at jcwsdirops@ndu.edu.

Welcome to the Joint and Combined Warfighting School

JCWS exists to prepare officers and national security professionals to operate, plan, and lead in the Joint Force.  Our purpose isn’t simply to teach doctrine or provide a JPME II credential; it’s to develop officers who can confront complex strategic and operational problems, think critically under pressure and uncertainty, integrate capabilities across the Joint Force and with our allies and partners, and translate national and military objectives into executable plans.

The word warfighting is in our school’s name for a reason - in modern conflict, people are part of the weapon system.  Platforms, networks, sensors, fires, and technology only create combat power when professionals can understand the problem, exercise sound judgment, integrate capabilities, and adapt faster than the adversary.  JCWS develops that human component of the Joint Force.

Throughout the program, you’ll apply theory, history, doctrine, operational art, and the Joint Planning Process to realistic problems.  You’ll be expected to frame problems, develop and assess alternatives, make decisions, explain your logic, and defend your recommendations.

There isn’t always a single right answer.  So, our objective is to develop joint professionals who can recognize when conditions have changed, challenge assumptions, and adapt their thinking and plans accordingly.

Whether you attend JCWS through our Resident, Satellite, or Hybrid program, you’ll be part of a diverse joint learning environment designed to broaden your perspective and sharpen your ability to work across services, agencies, nations, and domains.

You’re coming to JCWS at a consequential time for the Joint Force.  The strategic environment is changing rapidly, and the warfighters we educate today will be expected to solve problems tomorrow that we may not yet fully understand.

Prepare here - in order to win as part of the Joint Force.

HAROLD J. EVERHART
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Director, Joint and Combined Warfighting School