Program eligibility requirements
A bachelor's degree (or higher) in any discipline from a regionally accredited college/university must be completed in order to be eligible for this certificate program.
Minnesota Rules 6700.0700 also sets “minimum standards for peace officer license eligibility” and these standards go beyond those required for entry into our program. Minnesota Rules 6700.1500;further sets “standards of conduct for licensed peace officers.” Students interested in becoming a licensed peace officer in Minnesota shall adhere to these standards and rules, including:
- be a citizen of the United States;
- possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license;
- complete a comprehensive written application;
- not be required to register as a predatory offender;
- never have been convicted of a felony in this state or in any other state or federal jurisdiction;
- submit to a thorough background investigation;
- be fingerprinted for a background check;
- be medically examined by a licensed physician or surgeon;
- by psychologically examined by a licensed psychologist;
- pass job-related physical strength and agility exams;
- successfully complete an oral exam demonstrating communication skills.
Emergency Medical Responder certification also is required to take the peace officer licensing exam and must be approved by the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board (EMSRB). Please check the POST Boardwebsite for up-to-date information on standards and rules.
Physical conditioning
Physical conditioning is an important aspect of policing. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to begin and/or continue an exercise program to address physical conditioning. Key components of physical fitness are flexibility, cardiopulmonary endurance, muscular strength and muscular endurance.
Application instructions
Review the instructions below carefully and submit applications only when all materials are complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Complete the Law Enforcement Licensing Certificate Program application form and confirm you meet the peace officer minimum selection standards.
- Submit with your application a professional resume. Your resume should be clear and concise (approx. 2 pages). Please include experience relevant to the peace officer profession, including education, employment, training, and volunteering that demonstrate your commitment to community and ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds. At a minimum your resume should include the following information:
- personal statement or career objectives
- education
- work experience (past and present)
- community involvement
- other relevant experience, training, or specialist skills (e.g., foreign languages, EMT/paramedic certification, computer literacy).
- Obtain and submit an official transcript for verification of your bachelor's degree.
- A sealed, official transcript from the academic institution that awarded your baccalaureate degree is required. Note: Graduates of Metro State do not need to send an official transcript because we already have it.
- Transcripts can either be sent directly by the academic institution to our PPOE Director Dr. Chuck MacLean or enclosed with your application submission.
- Applicants applying before officially graduating must submit a current transcript now followed by an official transcript once their degree is awarded. Verification of bachelor’s degree must be received before official acceptance to the program will be granted.
Application deadline
Completed applications to the program will be accepted until August 1, 2022. Applications after this deadline may be considered if space is available.
Questions?
Please contact PPOE Director Dr. Chuck MacLean at Chuck.MacLean@metrostate.edu
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