While some states like Florida and Connecticut do not mandate college coursework for entry, others are raising the bar. For example, the New Jersey State Police often requires a bachelor's degree or a specific mix of college credits and military/work experience.
Due to staffing shortages, some major departments have recently adjusted their requirements. The NYPD , for instance, reduced its entry requirement from 60 college credits to 24 in 2025 to widen the applicant pool. 2. The Case for College: Is a Degree Worth It? police officer school requirements
Minimum Qualifications & Disqualifiers - New Jersey State Police While some states like Florida and Connecticut do
Once hired, your next "school" is the police academy. This is a rigorous, state-mandated training program that typically lasts between . police officer school requirements