Should I enter the Navy for Interpretal Cryptology or IT?

Question

There is a high demand for Interpretal Cryptology, so there is a hefty sign-on bonus. They also get Top Secret clearance and have an extra year or so to learn an extra language, I'll probably go for Chinese. I have had interest in both though. I've always wanted to be in Cryptology, but I've also always liked and worked with computers also. Any input from anyone in these two fields?

On that note, which language do you believe to be the best to learn. I figured Chinese because it is one of the most difficult, but we have alot of foreign relations with them, and let's face it, they are one of the most, if not the most, technologically advanced.

Answer 1

For starters, if you go CTI you first have to take the DLAB test. Dependant on how well you do will depend on what languages you can qualify for, if you even pass at all. Its a very...interesting test to say the least and many people who speak more than one language already have failed it. I do not believe you get to choose what language you want, they assign you to one that they need.
Plus, you have to pass the background check to earn that clearance, they just don't give it to you. For a high level security clearance they will look at everything and it can take up to a year to get, if not longer. If you cannot get the required clearance, they put you in another rate and they may let you choose which, or they may just stick you where they want.

IT is a good rate as well. On ships they run the LAN and several communications systems onboard. You'll learn software for computers and most likely hardware as well. I was an ET and I worked with our ITs. Us ETs took care of the hardware while the ITs only did software, but alot of times they don't have ETs working with them so I imagine you would learn both.

Answer 2

I'd talk to a recruiter. If you're afraid to do that, I'd suggest you look the official Navy Web site and follow the links. I'm almost certain there will be a contact link somewhere.

But, the Navy isn't in the business to give you an education. It will train you in the field in which your test scores show you have the most promise and can best serve the needs of the Navy.

I have no idea why there are so many questions about TS clearance. It only makes you more responsible for keeping your mouth shut. I know guys who served in Vietnam.... more than 30 years ago... and they still don't talk about what they did... even to their families.

TS means nothing. It's what you have a need to know. If something is not necessary for you to perform your duties, you don't have a need to know it. If you have a need to know something, you will be investigated for a clearance to know that stuff. Most service personnel are cleared for "Confidential." In the Pentagon, a Top Secret folder is something of a "hall pass." You deliver it to whomever you're supposed to deliver it, or you file it. You might never know what's in it. You're only cleared to carry it. And nobody is cleared to ask.

Answer 3

If you go CTI, you will have more opportunities to advance in rank with less competition, where as in IT you will have more competition for advancement. The fact the Navy is offering a signing bonus for CTI is an indicator that the rate is under quota for personnel versus IT where technicians are a dime a dozen with no incentives. You can decide to be a standout (CTI) or blend in the crowd (IT).

Good luck whatever you decide!

Answer 4

I offer you this advise, however please be advised, this is from when I was in the (OLD) Army Security Agency ( no longer in existence, has been separated into different factions, now), back in the 1950's. IF your math, language, and computer skills are I.Q. proved, GO FOR IT !!!! My training in cryptology, basic nuclear physics, electronics, and the CRYPTO (higher than top secret) clearance, has provided me with an education and experience, that has provided my family and I with over 47 years of above average income in the civilian sector !!! Be further advised, that FOR 40 YEARS AFTER YOU LEAVE ACTIVE DUTY, YOU WILL BE FORBIDDEN TO SPEAK OF WHAT-EVER CLASSIFIED INFORMATION YOU KNOW !!!! IF you do go for it, GOOOOOOD LUUUUUUCK ' and MAY THE BIG BOSS, ABOVE, PROTECT YOU and YOUR FAMILY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Uncle Wil

Answer 5

what language you get at DLI is entirely dependent on your DLAB score and what classes are starting up when you arrive at Monterey.

If you don;t score at least a 100 on the DLAB, the Navy will not Gty you CTI. of course, there are other CT ratings. CTR or CTN would be a good compromise if you are into computers.

Answer 6

I haven't a clue as to your possible MOS, but my hat's off to you for serving your country.
Best of luck to you.