A new bridge partnership between Slippery Rock University and the Pennsylvania State Police is paving the way for more students to achieve rewarding careers in criminal justice. SRU has entered into an agreement with PSP where criminology and criminal justice majors at SRU can apply their Pennsylvania State Police Academy training as 15 credits toward their bachelor’s degree.
“This program creates a direct pathway for our students to careers with the State Police,” said David Champion, SRU professor of criminology and criminal justice. “Students gain early access to recruiters and mentorship from troopers who help them navigate the application process and prepare for the academy, while we provide the academic guidance to ensure they are ready upon graduation. It gives students a clear, supported route from the classroom to a law enforcement career.”
Students must be accepted into the PSP’s academy to enter the “bridge” semester –– second semester of their senior year –– with academy training counting toward elective internship and workshop credits. SRU will also provide a course plan and access to PSP troopers through on-campus workshops for guidance as they prepare for the application process into the academy.
“We value a college education because it gives future troopers a strong foundation before they enter the academy and creates opportunities for advancement throughout their careers,” said Cpl. Nicole Ludwig, who is serving as PSP’s bridge partnership liaison to SRU. “Students who come into the Pennsylvania State Police with a degree are better prepared for the academy, stronger communicators and report writers in the field, and more competitive for specialized units. This partnership gives students a clear advantage by combining academic preparation with direct guidance from the State Police.”
One of the benefits of SRU’s bridge partnership is that students can earn both their degree and complete their academy training at the same time, paving the way for guaranteed employment upon graduating. Other programs give troopers credit after they have gone through the academy.
“SRU’s program is fantastic and the faculty are amazing,” Cpl. Ludwig said. “The University has been extremely receptive, and we look at this partnership as an example for other colleges.”
More information about the criminology and criminal justice program at SRU is available on the program’s webpage.
