The Pennsylvania State Police recently announced a new agreement that allows students in their senior year at participating colleges and universities to earn their remaining credits toward an associate or bachelor’s degree by successfully completing cadet basic training at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy.

During his first year in office, Gov. Josh Shapiro removed the college credit requirement for state troopers – creating opportunity for Pennsylvanians who are interested in pursuing a career with the State Police.

While a degree is not required, this partnership creates a streamlined pathway for students to finish their degree while simultaneously training to become a state trooper.

“This agreement enables cadets to earn college credit while they undergo academy training. This cooperative program formally acknowledges the academic rigor, discipline, and professional standards required to serve the Commonwealth,” Col. Christopher Paris, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police said.

“This initiative exemplifies our unwavering commitment to higher education and lifelong learning by incorporating accredited academic opportunities into the Pennsylvania State Police Academy curriculum. By investing in the education and professional development of our troopers from the outset of their careers, we strengthen our workforce, enhance the quality of policing throughout the Commonwealth, and ensure that our members are well-prepared to meet the complex challenges of modern law enforcement,” Paris said.

The new program awards academic credits much like a traditional internship completed during a student’s final semester.

Instead of classroom time to earn their remaining credits, students will finish their training at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and earn the remaining credits needed to graduate, allowing them to receive their degree and become a trooper at the same time.

The program is not limited to criminal justice majors; participating colleges may apply the credits toward any degree program they choose.

The growing number of colleges and universities that have partnered with the Pennsylvania State Police include:

•DeSales University, Center Valley

•Keystone College, La Plume, Lackawanna County

•Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, Westmoreland County

•Mercyhurst University, Erie

•Luzerne County Community College, Nanticoke

•Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, Johnstown, Cambria County

This initiative reflects Gov. Josh Shapiro’s commitment to investing in Pennsylvania State Police and law enforcement across Pennsylvania fully. His 2025-2026 state budget includes funding for four cadet classes.

There is no cost to apply or enter the Pennsylvania State Police Academy.

Cadets are paid a biweekly salary with room and meals provided at no cost.

Cadets must have a high school diploma or GED certificate and a valid driver’s license from any state.

They must be at least 20 years old at the time of application, and they must be at least 21 years old and cannot have reached age 40 upon entry into the training academy.

At the time of graduation, cadets must be a Pennsylvania resident and possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

No prior law enforcement experience is required.

Pennsylvania State Police announces cadet application periods on its website.

Academy training is approximately 28 weeks of rigorous physical activities and educational coursework in Pennsylvania’s crimes and vehicle codes, law enforcement principles and practices, firearms and special equipment training.

Upon graduation, cadets are promoted to trooper and receive an increase in salary, currently set at $71,647 annually.

The Pennsylvania State Police was created by an act of the legislation which was signed into law by Gov. Samuel W. Pennypacker May 2, 1905. It was the first uniformed police organization of its kind in the United States.

Currently, the authorized complement of the Pennsylvania State Police is 4,841 sworn members. More than 1,850 civilians serve in a variety of roles throughout the department.

For more information on becoming a state trooper, including applicant requirements and job benefits, visit PATrooper.com.

For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit the PSP website.