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The partnership provides automatic admission for eligible department employees to obtain a high-value degree with no out-of-pocket expense.
AUSTIN, TEXAS: The College of Innovation and Design at Texas A&M University-Commerce and the City of Austin, Texas, have partnered to establish a preferred pathway for Austin Police Department officers to earn their Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with an emphasis in law enforcement leadership.
The competency-based program empowers working professionals with a flexible, affordable option to elevate their careers without traveling or forgoing work or family obligations. The program offers courses asynchronously online, allowing officers to work at their own pace in accelerated, seven-week terms. Additionally, a newly created success team supports students with personalized attention from initial inquiry through graduation.
Faculty and staff representing the College of Innovation and Design attended the Austin Police Association’s February meeting. Jimmy Womack, coordinator and instructor for the university’s competency-based program, shared details with department members.
Associate Program Director Angela Woodruff met with officers and administrators to ensure a smooth and expedited admission process.
“Joining the College of Innovation and Design has been very rewarding, including redesigning our student support team to accommodate the unique needs of adult learners and working professionals,” Woodruff said. “Our partnership with the City of Austin promises to benefit A&M-Commerce and Austin Police Department officers. We look forward to developing similar partnerships to extend educational opportunities across Texas.”
Retired detective and program alum George Sumner attended the event.
“This partnership allows police officers to continue their education with guaranteed admission and all tuition fees covered,” he said. “I’m honored to help establish this partnership that will benefit law enforcement for generations.”
The College of Innovation and Design offers six competency-based programs in various workforce-aligned fields, from health care to teacher preparation. Explore available programs at tamuc.edu/CID.