FAIRMONT, W.Va. – The Fairmont State University’s Police Academy will end the basic officer academy in FY 2024-25 and transition to offering continuing education courses.
“Among our primary focus is to provide learning opportunities that benefit the state of West Virginia in addition to our students,” said Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Dianna Phillips. “After meeting with the Academy leadership, the recommendation was clear—West Virginia’s officers need more opportunities for in-service training. Fairmont State is responding to that need.”
The academy will offer the 16-hour leadership development course designed to enhance the leadership skills of supervisory-level police officers throughout the state. The class prepares those leaders to take the next step in leading their home organizations.
“Next, the Fairmont State team will discuss in-service needs for agencies in our region and across the state,” said Phillips. “It is critical that we identify the changing needs of law enforcement in West Virginia so we can meet those needs.”
Since the Fairmont State University Police Academy launched in January of 2023, 39 cadets have graduated and 14 more will graduate on May 10. That same cadre of instructors will offer the continuing education program.