Lycoming College has announced a new cooperative agreement with the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) that will allow students to earn internship credits toward their degree by successfully completing cadet basic training at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy during their final semester.

The partnership creates a streamlined pathway for Lycoming College students to finish their undergraduate education while simultaneously training to become a state trooper.

Under the agreement, Lycoming students who complete cadet basic training will be awarded college credit, enabling them to graduate with both their Lycoming bachelor’s degree and a career as a state trooper.

“This agreement with Lycoming College allows cadets to earn their college degree upon graduating from the PSP Academy,” said Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens, the acting commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “This initiative demonstrates our commitment to higher education and lifelong learning, formally recognizing the academic rigor, discipline, and professional standards necessary to become a member of the PSP.”

Students in the program will substitute traditional classroom time with a rigorous 28-week training program at the PSP Academy in Hershey.

The academy curriculum includes physical activities and educational coursework in Pennsylvania’s crimes and vehicle codes, law enforcement principles and practices, firearms, and special equipment training.

The program is not limited to criminal justice majors; students in any discipline may apply for admittance to the PSP Academy.

Admission to the PSP Academy remains highly competitive and is at the sole discretion of the Pennsylvania State Police.

Students must meet all PSP applicant requirements, including being at least 20 years old at the time of application and possessing a valid driver’s license. There is no cost to apply or enter the academy, and cadets are paid a biweekly salary with room and meals provided.

Upon successful graduation from the academy, cadets are promoted to the rank of trooper.

“Through our new partnership with PSP, Lycoming students will graduate one step ahead, having earned a bachelor’s degree and completing cadet basic training at the Academy at the same time,” said Kerry Richmond, Ph.D., professor of criminal justice and criminology at Lycoming College. “This agreement allows our students to seamlessly transition from the classroom to a rewarding career in law enforcement, gaining invaluable hands-on experience that perfectly complements their liberal arts education.”

Richmond will serve as Lycoming College’s primary point of contact for the program.

For more information about the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and applicant requirements, visit PATrooper.com.