The Police Academy at Southeast Missouri State University is a Missouri Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) approved program and has trained more than 2,800 law enforcement officers since 1987. Graduates of our program are well-equipped for various law enforcement job opportunities, including local departments, county sheriffs’ offices, state patrol units, and even federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service. 

Here are a few key police academy requirements and things you should know when applying: 

1. You Must Be 21 or Older

Applicants must be at least 21 years old to apply. This is a statewide requirement to ensure officers meet the legal standards for carrying firearms and serving in law enforcement roles. 

2. Earn 18 Credit Hours and a Law Enforcement Certificate

When you attend SEMO’s Police Academy, you’ll earn 18 credit hours from the University. These credits can either apply toward a stand-alone Law Enforcement Certificate or count toward your bachelor's degree in criminal justice if you choose to pursuee a four-year program. 

3. Physical Fitness Standards Apply

Law enforcement is a physically demanding career. Applicants must meet physical fitness standards that assess endurance, strength, and agility. The academy includes ongoing physical conditioning and defensive tactics training to prepare you for the realities of the job. 
 

4. The Academy Meets All Missouri P.O.S.T. Requirements 

Our program is fully approved by the Missouri Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Commission. This ensures every graduate is trained to the standards required to serve as a licensed peace officer in Missouri. 

5. Outstanding Exam and Employment Rates

• 100% POST Exam Pass Rate: For the past three years, every SEMO Police Academy graduate has successfully passed the Missouri Peace Officer License Exam. 
• 97% Job Placement Rate: Nearly all our graduates find employment in law enforcement soon after completing the program. 

Graduates are prepared for careers at every level of law enforcement. Many begin as patrol officers (median salary: $55,661 in Missouri), while others move into specialized roles such as detectives (median salary: $67,878), showcasing a range of law enforcement job opportunities available to graduates. 

In addition to core requirements, the Police Academy offers specialized training modules, such as defensive tactics, firearms qualification, and legal procedures, so you’re fully prepared for the field, ensuring you meet the requirements for police officers.  

8. Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant

If you’re a Missouri resident returning to school as an adult learner, the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant can help cover your tuition. This statewide grant supports high-demand fields, including law enforcement. 

9. Credit for Prior Learning for Experienced Officers

Already completed police training elsewhere? If you’ve graduated from another Missouri basic law enforcement training center or an out-of-state/federal/military basic police school, you may be eligible for a Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)assessment to transfer credit for your training and apply it toward your degree at SEMO. 

Stevie began her college journey as a psychology major but soon discovered her true calling in law enforcement. See how her experience in the Police Academy confirmed she’s exactly where she’s meant to be. 

Application Process for the Police Academy  
 

Your Career in Law Enforcement Starts Now 

The SEMO Police Academy equips you with the knowledge, skills, and credentials you need to launch a rewarding law enforcement career. Apply today and start building the foundation for a career that makes a difference.