SEMO Celebrates Law Enforcement Academy Graduates

This spring, 13 graduates completed SEMO's Law Enforcement Academy, with 12 graduates immediately entering positions in the Air Force or local law enforcement agencies across southeast Missouri. The Academy continues to serve as a direct pipeline for police departments seeking officers ready to serve from day one.

"This class' hard work, discipline and commitment reflects the high standards of the law enforcement profession they are entering," said Dr. Brian Donavant, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice, Social Work, and Sociology at SEMO. "Their graduation marks the end of the Academy, but it's really just the beginning. As they step into the profession, they carry with them the skills, mindset and incredible responsibility that come with the badge."

INTERESTED IN SEMO'S LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY?

SEMO's LEA offers the flexibility to complete the program as part of a bachelor's degree or as a stand-alone 18-credit-hour certificate, creating opportunities for traditional or non-traditional students and those pursuing a career change. Through its curriculum, students receive a combination of classroom instruction, scenario-based learning and hands-on tactical training designed to prepare them for the workforce.

With a growing need for dedicated law enforcement professionals across the region, SEMO continues to prepare graduates to make a lasting impact in their communities. The LEA is accepting applications to join the fall 2026 cohort until July 17.

Take fearless next steps toward a career in law enforcement at semo.edu/law-enforcement-academy.

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