Georgian Court University (GCU) and the Ocean County Police Academy (OCPA) have signed a new articulation agreement that will provide eligible OCPA graduates with college credit for select courses in GCU’s Criminal Justice program. The partnership offers a streamlined path for law enforcement professionals seeking to further their education and advance their careers.
Graduates of OCPA’s Basic Course for Police Officers (BCPO) will be eligible to receive up to 21 college credits at Georgian Court for coursework completed at the academy. The credits apply to foundational criminal justice courses, including Introduction to the Criminal Justice System, Introduction to Policing, and Criminal Law, as well as elective courses such as Juvenile Justice, Forensic Science, and Criminal Investigation.
To qualify, OCPA graduates must apply and matriculate at Georgian Court, complete at least 12 credits of college-level coursework (excluding skills development courses) with a grade of C or better, and formally request the transfer of credits. Once enrolled, they will be awarded advanced standing in the university’s Criminal Justice program, reducing their required major coursework from 45 to 27 credits—a significant time and cost savings for those looking to earn a bachelor’s degree.
“This agreement reflects our commitment to provide an accessible, career-focused education to those in law enforcement,” said Dr. Janice Warner, Provost at Georgian Court University. “By recognizing the rigorous training provided by the Ocean County Police Academy, we are creating a clear path for officers to build on their experience and expand their knowledge in criminal justice.”
Undersheriff Thomas J. Dellane, Director of the Ocean County Police Academy, praised the partnership, stating, “Law enforcement professionals benefit tremendously from higher education, and this agreement with Georgian Court University makes it easier for our graduates to continue their studies while serving their communities. We are proud to collaborate with GCU to support our officers’ professional development.”
Georgian Court’s Department of Crime & Justice Studies offers bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and specialized coursework in law, special populations, cybercrime, terrorism, and comparative justice systems. The program is distinguished by its emphasis on ethics and service, aligning with the university’s Mercy core values of respect, integrity, justice, compassion, and service.
For more information about the articulation agreement and the university’s Criminal Justice program, visit www.georgian.edu or contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@georgian.edu or (732) 987-2700.
