Radford University, Virginia State Police launch pathway that moves criminal justice students from college to career

Radford University and the Virginia State Police signed an agreement Oct. 21 creating a new pathway for qualified criminal justice seniors to begin training at the Virginia State Police Basic Trooper School during their final academic semester — a partnership that strengthens career opportunities for students while helping the Commonwealth build its future law enforcement workforce. 
The agreement makes Radford the first public university in Virginia to establish this type of partnership with the Virginia State Police. 

Through the program, qualified Radford University seniors majoring in criminal justice may begin the Virginia State Police application and screening process during the first semester of their senior year and, if accepted, attend the academy during their second semester. That academy experience will count as a 15-credit-hour internship, allowing students to complete a significant part of their professional preparation before graduation. 

The result is a more direct route into public service. Rather than facing a process that can extend for months after graduation, participating students can move immediately from college to career. 

“This partnership reflects the very best of what public higher education can do,” said Radford University President Bret Danilowicz. “It gives our students a powerful experiential learning opportunity that connects classroom preparation with a clear professional pathway, and it helps the Commonwealth develop well-trained, highly motivated law enforcement officers who are ready to serve. We are proud to partner with the Virginia State Police on an initiative that supports student success, strengthens workforce readiness and advances public service in Virginia.” 

Virginia State Police leaders said the agreement creates a strong and supportive pipeline for students who are committed to serving. 

“Virginia State Police is proud to partner with Radford University to help create a clear and supportive pathway for students who aspire to serve as Virginia state troopers," said Maj. Todd Garrett, head of the Workforce Readiness Center for the Virginia State Police. "This collaboration allows us to engage with highly motivated criminal justice majors who have already demonstrated a strong commitment to public service. By connecting academic preparation with practical career opportunities, we are strengthening our future workforce and reinforcing our mission to protect and serve the commonwealth.”  

For Radford University, the partnership is a strong example of the university’s commitment to experiential learning, career preparation and career outcomes. Students gain a meaningful head start on a respected profession, while the Virginia State Police benefits from access to candidates who are academically prepared, purpose-driven and ready to begin specialized training. 

“This program creates a seamless pathway from college to career,” said Stephen Owen, chair of Radford University’s Department of Criminal Justice. “Many of our students are interested in working for the Virginia State Police. This is a win-win in that we are able to accelerate their career preparation before graduation, and the VSP gets applicants who are highly motivated and well prepared to begin academy training. Those who complete the process will have a Radford degree and already have begun their service.” 

The partnership reflects a shared investment in preparing the next generation of law enforcement professionals — individuals equipped with academic knowledge, hands-on training and a strong commitment to serving communities across Virginia.