Peace Officer Training Program
Lake Region State College is the only institution in North Dakota authorized to deliver a POST police academy. The Peace Officer Training Program (POTP) is offered at LRSC’s main campus in Devils Lake, with additional locations in Grand Forks and West Fargo.
The one-semester certificate program meets North Dakota’s requirements for peace officer employment. Students complete academy-style training that combines classroom instruction, hands-on skills, and daily physical fitness preparation.
Training Includes: | |
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Connect With the Peace Officer Training Program
The Peace Officer Training Program has specific application requirements and limited seating. Connect with Jennifer Schieve to learn more about program requirements, upcoming academy dates, and the application process.
The POTP qualifies individuals for North Dakota licensure but may not meet requirements in other states. Check state-specific licensure requirements as needed.
Choose Your Path
Choose the option that best fits your career goals. Students may complete the Peace Officer Training Certificate or continue their education through the Associate in Applied Science in Law Enforcement.
Law Enforcement Program
The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Law Enforcement supports career advancement and meets the two-year education requirement for many agencies. The degree requires 43 semester credit hours of academic courses. Students also complete the 17-credit Peace Officer Training Program (POTP), totaling 60 credits. Students in the Law Enforcement curriculum must also apply for the Peace Officer Training Program. Due to limited seating, applicants should begin the process early in the semester before the program is offered. Graduates of the POTP can complete the AAS in Law Enforcement on-campus or online.
Associate in Applied Science
Associate in Applied Science
Program CurriculumTwo-year degree in law enforcement. | ||
| CJ 201 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CSCI 101 | Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| COMM 110 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
| ENGL 110 | College Composition I | 3 |
| ENGL 120 OR ENGL 125 | College Composition II OR Introduction to Professional Writing | 3 |
| POLS 115 | American Government | 3 |
| SOC 115 OR SOC 235 | Social Problems OR Cultural Diversity | 3 |
| UNIV 101 | Introduction to College Life | 1 |
| Lab Science | 4 | |
| Program Electives | 18 | |
| Peace Officer Training Certificate | 17 | |
Total AAS Credits | 60 | |
Peace Officer Training Certificate
The Peace Officer Training Certificate is a 17-credit, one-semester program designed to meet North Dakota requirements for peace officer employment. The academy-style program provides training in law enforcement procedures, legal concepts, officer safety, emergency response, and professional skills.
Certificate
Certificate
Program CurriculumCertificate: One-semester to become a licensed peace officer. | ||
| CJ 101 | Fundamentals of Law Enforcement | 3 |
| CJ 102 | Investigation Techniques | 2 |
| CJ 104 | Defensive Tactics | 2 |
| CJ 150 | Patrol Procedures | 3 |
| CJ 155 | Police Skills | 4 |
| HPER 165 | First Responder | 2 |
| HPER 265 | Physical Training | 1 |
Total Certificate Credits | 17 | |
Application Process for POTP
Enrollment in the Peace Officer Training Program (POTP) requires additional steps beyond the general LRSC application. Applicants must complete the following:
Due to limited seating, applicants should begin the application process early before the semester the program is offered.
Tuition & Costs
LRSC offers financial aid opportunities to help make college more affordable. Students may qualify for scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.
We are here to help you understand your options and plan in a way that works for you.
Cost & Aid → Scholarships →
