The Southeast Missouri State University Law Enforcement Academy has added small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), or drone training, to the program, providing innovative education to area law enforcement agencies.
“Drones are an increasingly popular resource in a variety of fields, including law enforcement,” said director of the Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) Bobby Bollinger. “By offering these courses, we can educate law enforcement on ways to utilize the newest technology and continue keeping our communities safe.”
The sUAS classes will begin this fall and will be offered to sworn law enforcement. It includes three courses: the FAA Part 107 course, Drone Pilot course, and Legal Updates for Drone Operators course. Drone courses for civilians are already offered through Southeast’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems program.
The LEA will also begin offering free quarterly drone training for sworn law enforcement. It will consist of legal updates and hands-on, scenario-based training.
“It’s important for our law enforcement officials to stay up-to-date with current technology and the legal policies that coincide with it,” said Bollinger.
There will be an informational meeting at the Law Enforcement Academy at 10 a.m., April 3, for law enforcement agencies regarding the new program and quarterly training. If a law enforcement agency currently has a drone program or is looking to implement a drone program, please contact Bobby Bollinger via email at bbollinger@semo.edu to confirm attendance at the meeting.
SEMO Law Enforcement Academy
The Law Enforcement Academy at Southeast is a Missouri Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) approved provider and is dedicated to training law enforcement professionals for a variety of positions across the field. It was established in 1987 and has trained over 3,000 law enforcement officers since.
In addition to the Law Enforcement Academy, SEMO also offers a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice. The degree is eligible for Missouri’s Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant for adult learners or Missouri residents returning to college. It’s a statewide financial aid program for high need career areas in Missouri.
Applying To SEMO
New Missouri undergraduate students with a 2.75 high school GPA and who are eligible for Pell Grants won’t pay any tuition or fees at Southeast Missouri State. The Will To Do Award will cover all tuition and fees that aren’t covered by other scholarships and grants. SEMO also offers one tuition rate nationwide for domestic students.
For more information or to visit campus, visit the Southeast Admissions page or contact at (573) 651-2000.