All potential cadets must follow the checklist below.Step OneApply for admission to Washington State College of Ohio and submit an official high school transcript or GED score reportMust be 18 years of age or older (WSCO recommends a minimum age of 19–20)Must receive your commission within one year of successful POBA completionMust hold a valid driver’s licenseStep TwoComplete the physical fitness assessmentStep ThreeAfter successful completion of the physical fitness assessment, you will receive an email with forms and instructions for:National Web CheckDrug screenMedical physicalStep FourAttend the mandatory POBA orientation

Criminal Justice – POBA

What Is the Criminal Justice POBA Program Like?

Your community is calling—are you ready to answer? Public service and safety careers are more than jobs; they’re a commitment to protecting others, leading with integrity, and making a real impact every day.

At WSCO, our Public Service programs prepare you for careers in law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and criminal justice through hands-on training from real-world professionals. Students enrolled in the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission’s (OPOTC) certified Peace Officer Basic Academy (POBA) complete the 740 hours of state-mandated instruction required for employment as a law enforcement professional in Ohio.

The Academy is demanding and attendance is mandatory, reflecting the discipline expected in the field. Most equipment and uniforms are provided by the college, though each cadet must supply a rain jacket, running pants, and eye and ear protection.

Successful completion of the OPOTC Peace Officer Basic Academy prepares you for immediate employment opportunities and is recognized by West Virginia for certification purposes, subject to the provisions set forth by the WV Division of Justice and Community Services. Similar reciprocity may vary by state.

Don’t just wonder if you can make a difference—train to be the difference today.

Is the Criminal Justice POBA Program Online?

No. Coursework consists of in-person classes, which are required to complete the course competencies. Regular attendance is a crucial part of this demanding program.

What Credentials Will I Earn from This Program?

The Academy is 26 semester hours. Successful completion results in a State of Ohio certification as a peace officer eligible to be employed by nearly all jurisdictions in Ohio. This option does not qualify for federal financial aid except for the GI Bill.

One-Year College Certificate Option

If you’re considering furthering your education in the future, our one-year certificate may be the right choice for you. Successful completion results in a college-level certificate that may be applied toward completion of an associate or bachelor’s degree and the State of Ohio certification as a peace officer eligible to be employed by nearly all jurisdictions in Ohio.

You will be required to complete 30 semester hours, comprised of 26 semester hours for the POBA certificate as well as English and Physical Fitness classes. This option qualifies for federal financial aid and the GI Bill.

Graduates are prepared for roles as:

Police Officers
Sheriff’s Deputies
Parole Officers
Officers of the Court

In the Peace Officer Basic Academy Program you’ll learn:

Civil and criminal laws to ensure ethical and legal work practices
How to select and execute proper law enforcement methodologies
Self-defense skills to protect yourself and others in the community
Investigation and analysis skills to bring cases to an accurate close
Professional communication skills at individual and organizational levels

30%

Growth Rate

$10,890

Estimated Program Tuition Cost

$54,930

Local Average Annual Salary

Option One: Academy Only

Option Two: One-Year College Certificate

You will be required to complete 30 semester hours. This includes 26 semester hours for the POBA certificate, as well as required English and Physical Fitness courses. Successful completion results in a college-level certificate that may be applied toward completion of an associate or bachelor’s degree, in addition to State of Ohio certification as a peace officer eligible for employment by nearly all jurisdictions in Ohio. This option does qualify for federal financial aid and the GI Bill.

Estimated Tuition: $5,440

POBA Certificate Information

Curriculum

View the course pathway

here
.

Option Three: Associate Degree in Criminal Justice

You will be required to complete the 26 semester hours necessary for the Academy, plus an additional 42 semester hours that include Criminal Justice–related coursework, English, Communications, Psychology, and other associate degree requirements. Successful completion results in an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and State of Ohio certification as a peace officer eligible for employment by nearly all jurisdictions in Ohio. Credits may be transferred toward completion of a bachelor’s degree. This option does qualify for federal financial aid and the GI Bill.

Estimated Tuition: $10,540

Curriculum

View the course pathway here .

POBA Interest Form

POBA Checklist

All potential cadets must follow the checklist below.

Step One

Apply for admission to Washington State College of Ohio and submit an official high school transcript or GED score report
- Must be 18 years of age or older (WSCO recommends a minimum age of 19–20)
- Must receive your commission within one year of successful POBA completion
- Must hold a valid driver’s license

Step Two

Complete the physical fitness assessment

Step Three

After successful completion of the physical fitness assessment, you will receive an email with forms and instructions for:
- National Web Check
- Drug screen
- Medical physical

Step Four

Attend the mandatory POBA orientation

Public Safety

Criminal Justice Technology