The Bluefield University School of Criminal Justice is excited to announce an innovative partnership with the Virginia State Police (VSP). The new College to Academy Partnership Program offers a pathway for criminal justice students to launch their career in law enforcement while completing their degree.
This partnership will allow qualifying students to attend the Virginia State Police Basic Trooper School during the final semester of their undergraduate criminal justice program and earn 15 internship credit hours toward their degree. Upon successful completion of all basic school training objectives, their completion of the academy will be reported to the Department of Criminal Justice Services of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and they will be qualified as Virginia State Troopers.
“The Bluefield University School of Criminal Justice is extremely blessed and excited to solidify our long-standing relationship with the Virginia State Police in the collaboration and formation of this professional internship program,” said Dr. Kimberly Farmer, Dean of the School of Criminal Justice. “We have worked in partnership with this agency for many years and have seen many students transition from this undergraduate institution to meaningful law enforcement careers serving the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia and proudly wearing the VSP uniform.”
The partnership program aligns with the standards set forth by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). Participating students will undergo the Virginia State Police’s physical and academic testing and rigorous recruitment processes.
“This collaboration represents a significant step—a step forward in connecting academic preparation with professional service,” Captain Clifford F. Kincaid said. “It bridges theory and practice, ensuring students graduate not only with knowledge, but with clear, guided entry into a career of public service.”
Bluefield University faculty will support students throughout the application process and remain in contact with VSP training staff throughout the Basic Trooper School. Academic credit will be awarded based on successful completion of the program and formal documentation submitted by VSP.
“At Bluefield University, we have a mission to develop servant leaders—first to serve God, and then to serve others,” said University President Dr. Steve Peterson, “and I can’t think of many other professions where the responsibility to serve others is more evident than in law enforcement. Today is more than simply just signing an agreement. It’s about creating opportunities for students to live lives of meaningful service.”