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Associate of Applied Science in Police Science-Police Academy
On this page:
- Why Choose Police Science-Police Academy?
- Careers
- Real-World Experience
- Academics and Curriculum
- Admission
Fall 2025
New in Fall Semester 2025: Wright State-Lake Campus is offering a new program designed to prepare you for a career in law enforcement. Register now to secure your spot in the new Associate of Applied Science in Police Science – Police Academy program.
Why Choose Police Science-Police Academy?
You can make a difference in your community and beyond by working in law enforcement. This essential field offers a variety of careers that work with the public to enforce the law, bring justice, and protect citizens.
About the Program
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Police Science-Police Academy program combines basic peace officer training (Police Academy) with foundational studies of crime and criminal justice in the United States, specifically crime causation, crime trends and measurement, criminal law, victimization, the administration of justice, and criminal justice ethics. As a graduate of this program, you will have the basic knowledge required for entry-level law enforcement positions and the specialized knowledge required for advancement in rank.
The program is a stackable credentialing pathway that includes both the Police Academy and the Fundamentals of Crime and Justice Studies certificates. This two-year degree can be a standalone degree or an intermediate credential you can utilize to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Crime and Justice Studies. Choose what works best for you!
Careers
An A.A.S. in Police Science-Police Academy can be a pathway to various careers in the law enforcement such as:
- Police Officer
- Probation/Parole Officer
- Juvenile Counselor
- Bailiff
- Security Officer
- Criminal Investigator
- Paralegal
- Forensic Science Technician
- Private Investigator
- Victim Advocate
When you earn an A.A.S. in Police Science-Police Academy at Wright State, you will be prepared for a variety of positions within the field of law enforcement. You will understand and be ready to perform basic law enforcement functions and be able to articulate the fundamental components and practices of the criminal justice system in the United States.
Real-World Experience
We arm you with the knowledge and experiences you need to transition from student to professional. You will gain hands-on experience through a variety of community-based programs, service-learning opportunities, internships, and research projects.
Academics and Curriculum
After earning the necessary 15 hours of Wright State’s core requirements, you will earn 45 credit hours of program-specific courses to earn your diploma.
Admission
Requirements
In addition to Wright State University’s normal requirements, students must:
- Be 21 years of age at the conclusion of the Police Academy.
- Be in good physical condition.
- Have a valid Ohio driver’s license.
- Cannot have any convictions for felony, drug, or crimes of violence. (Sealed or expunged felony convictions as an adult will exclude a prospective cadet from admission to the Police Academy.)
- Pass a physical fitness and drug test.
How to Apply
Review the admission requirements and complete the admission application. Identify whether you will be majoring in Police Science-Police Academy.
If you are a current student and wish to change majors, submit a Major/Minor Change Request by logging in to WINGS, then select Student Academics under Your Launchpad. If you are an undecided/exploratory student, talk to your advisor about majoring in Police Science-Police Academy.
