The Pennsylvania State Police continue to expand recruitment opportunities for future troopers through agreements with colleges and universities. Through the Academy Internship Program, eligible seniors at participating institutions can complete their final semester by attending the PSP Academy.

Upon successful completion of cadet basic training, students earn the academic credits necessary to graduate while simultaneously beginning their career as a state trooper. Students interested in finishing their final semester at the PSP Academy through the college internship program must apply by Sept. 30.

The newly enacted 2026-27 state budget provides funding for approximately 380 new cadet appointments. The investment highlights Gov. Josh Shapiro’s commitment to strengthening public safety by ensuring the PSP remain well staffed and well trained.

The PSP currently has agreements with 27 colleges and universities through its Academy Internship and Law Enforcement Academic Partnership programs. The current list of colleges and universities participating in the internship program includes Alvernia University, Central Penn College. DeSales University, Elizabethtown College, Erie County Community College, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, Keystone College, Lehigh Carbon Community College, Luzerne County Community College, Lycoming College, Marywood University, Mercyhurst University, Misericordia University, Northampton Community College, Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, Saint Vincent College, Slippery Rock University, University of Scranton, Waynesburg University and York College of Pennsylvania.

The PSP has also established a collaborative pathway for enlisted and retired troopers to earn college credit through the LEAP program. This initiative aims to simplify the process for troopers seeking an associate or undergraduate degree by recognizing their prior learning and reducing course duplication.

The current list of colleges and universities participating in the LEAP program includes American Military University, Central Penn College, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, Delaware County Community College, Elizabethtown College, Kutztown University, Neumann University, Northampton Community College, Pennsylvania Highlands Community College, Shippensburg University, Slippery Rock University and University of Maryland Global Campus.

Troopers who successfully complete their training at the PSP Academy in Hershey will receive a predetermined number of academic credits applicable toward their degree program.

The commonwealth’s continued investment in PSP recruitment builds on efforts launched in 2023, when Shapiro removed the college credit requirement for state troopers. While a degree is not required, this partnership creates a streamlined pathway for students to finish their degree while training to become a trooper. Since then, PSP has experienced nearly a 60% increase in cadet applications.

There is no cost to apply, nor to enter the PSP Academy. Cadets are paid a biweekly salary with room and meals provided. Cadets must have a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license. 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. After five years of service, troopers can earn approximately $103,319.

Those interested in becoming a state trooper can find more details at patrooper.com.