An abbreviated version of officer training designed for Starfleet officers who have received a direct appointment commission.  The course focuses on leadership, understanding of Starfleet regulations, and also provides basic weapons, computer, and maintenance-damage control qualification training.  The original Direct Appointment Course was created in 2140 following a brief suspension of direct commission appointments. The new course was required for officers commissioned under special appointment, originally six weeks in length, and extended to eight weeks in the mid 2140s to include additional qualification training.