Program Overview
The Police Corps is designed to increase the number of community police with advanced training and education and place them on the streets in communities that need them the most. The program offers federally funded scholarships on a competitive basis to college students. Upon graduation, they must serve for four years with a city, county or state law enforcement agency.
Student Education Assistance
Students accepted into the Police Corps receive up to $7,500 a year to cover the expenses of study toward a bachelor or graduate degree. The funds cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation and room and board. A participant may receive up to $30,000 under the program. Additionally, participants receive a stipend of $250 per week during the required 16-week Police Corps Training Program. If a participant does not satisfy education, training and service obligations, he or she must repay the scholarship plus interest at the rate of 10%. Men and women of all races and ethnic backgrounds are eligible, regardless of family income or resources.
The Selection Process
The selection process assesses each applicant in terms of his or her ability to succeed in college, law enforcement training, and ultimately as a sworn police officer. The evaluation process includes:
Medical Examination
Physical Fitness Assessment
Background Investigation
Psychological Assessment
Polygraph Examination
Criminal History Check
Driver History Check
Drug Screening
Written Examination
Completion of 16-week Training Program
All Police Corps participants must satisfactorily complete the rigorous 16-week Police Corps training program. Paid for by the federal government, this basic law enforcement training is intended to teach the knowledge, skills and attitudes essential to serve effectively on community patrol; to develop the physical, moral and analytical capabilities of the participants; and to teach self-discipline and organizational loyalty.
Good character and a record clear of criminal charges are a must for selection into this program.
Dependent children of officers recently slain in the line of duty may be awarded the scholarship without any obligation of service or repayment.
For additional information and an application, please go to http://www.state.in.us/cji/policecorps/index.htm, or contact Dr. Sam Jerideau at 317-838-9843, or at sjerideau@cji.state.in.us.
