The Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) at Southeast Missouri State University graduated 25 new officers in December, during a ceremony held at the Show-Me Center.
Out of the 25 graduates, 20 will begin their law enforcement careers immediately, joining various agencies across 11 southeastern Missouri counties.
These graduates are now ready to serve and protect their communities, having completed the SEMO Law Enforcement Academy’s rigorous 19-week program that combines practical training with classroom instruction.
The LEA continues its tradition of excellence, with a 100% pass rate on the P.O.S.T. exam for the seventh consecutive year. The Academy’s graduates are highly sought after by law enforcement agencies because of the comprehensive training and real-world experience they gain throughout the program.
“Each year, we put approximately 50 trained officers and deputies on the streets, which significantly increases public safety,” said Bobby Bollinger, director of the SEMO Law Enforcement Academy. “Our graduates are well-prepared to handle the complexities of modern law enforcement, and as a result, they’re highly sought after by departments. More officers on the streets, combined with better training, means safer communities for everyone.”
SEMO’s Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) offers students unmatched flexibility, allowing them to tailor their education to fit their goals. Students can enroll in the LEA as part of their bachelor’s degree or choose to pursue the stand-alone certificate in law enforcement, enabling them to enter the workforce sooner while still enjoying the benefits of University resources and financial aid. The certificate program also counts as 18 credit hours, which can be applied toward a degree if students decide to continue their education in the future.
In addition to the core law enforcement curriculum, the LEA has been expanding its cutting-edge training programs, including a specialized small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) program. This program equips officers with the skills to operate drones for various law enforcement applications, adding an innovative tool to their skill set and improving their ability to respond to critical incidents.
As a proud provider of skilled law enforcement professionals for the Southeast Missouri region, SEMO’s LEA is dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers that make a difference in their communities. Applications for SEMO’s LEA for the fall 2025 semester open on April 7, 2025.
For more information about the Law Enforcement Academy at Southeast Missouri State University, visit the website.