The Appalachian Police Officer Development Program (APDP), the only program of its kind in North Carolina, is a two-year program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and training to become police officers, all while they are completing their undergraduate or graduate degrees at Appalachian State University.
Graduates entering the criminal justice system job market will have bachelor's or graduate degrees, two years of work experience in policing, and North Carolina law enforcement certification and training. They will also have the exposure to many socio-economic populations, ideas and beliefs that enrollment at an institution of higher education provides.
"Policing is a profession in need of leaders, thinkers and innovative ideas to facilitate positive reform. Institutions of higher education must get involved and play a role in shaping the future of the profession."
Andy Stephenson, Former Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police, Appalachian State University
Enrollment in the APDP is open to all full-time Appalachian students regardless of major or academic program. Upon successful completion of an interview, a background investigation and a psychological evaluation, applicants will become police cadets. There is no additional cost beyond regular tuition.
Cadet training includes broad training objectives and best practices specific to Appalachian Police, including:
- first aid, automated external defibrillator (AED) and CPR certification;
- communication skills training;
- de-escalation training;
- active shooter/aggressor training.
Upon completion of cadet training, cadets will be given civilian security assignments on campus, which can range from building security to special events on campus. Cadets will work 12-20 hours a week for competitive, hourly compensation.
“The Appalachian Police Officer Development Program will have a significant, positive impact on policing and the criminal justice system in our region and throughout North Carolina.”
Andy Stephenson
Cadets who perform satisfactorily and meet academy requirements will have the opportunity to attend the Appalachian Police Academy held each summer, where they will complete North Carolina's basic law enforcement training (BLET). To complete the academy and take their state exam, cadets must be at least 20 years old — the required age to be a police officer in North Carolina.
After passing the state certification exam, graduates of the academy will be certified police officers in the state of North Carolina and will continue working as part-time police officers for Appalachian Police Department until they earn their academic degree.
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