Scholarships for Minnesota Law Enforcement Students

Enforcement of the law in a democratic society is a complex task. The ability of a peace officer to render effective service responsive to the public’s need depends heavily upon job knowledge and skills. The Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association recognizes the importance of pre-entry training to the accomplishment of these requisites. It also recognizes that some candidates need outside help in meeting the costs of such training, as well as, those candidates who excel academically.

The Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association (MSA) announced today the commencement of the Law Enforcement Scholarship Program for 2024. The MSA Board of Directors have established a scholarship fund for the awarding of up to 18 - $2,000 scholarships for this year. These scholarships are possible due to the coordinated efforts of the 87 elected Sheriffs of the State of Minnesota.
“The MSA Board of Directors acknowledges the current challenges in recruiting and greatly appreciates the individuals that make the decision to serve others through a career in law enforcement. This is one way that we can support that honorable decision.” said Executive Director, James Stuart.

The MSA recognizes the importance of pre-entry training for people considering law enforcement as their career choice. The MSA also recognizes that some students may need outside help in meeting the costs of such training, even though they excel academically. The MSA gives special recognition to the financial needs of students attending the peace officer skills course, or one of the state’s two or four-year law enforcement degree programs.

The MSA Scholarship Committee, in making its selection of awards, intends on achieving representation from all geographical areas around the state. Scholarship awards will be announced in December at the 2024 MSA Winter Conference.

Application forms and a statement of procedures are available at the student’s local county sheriff’s office. Scholarships are only available to students currently enrolled in one of the following three categories:

1. Mandated POST Skills Program
2. In their second year of a two-year law enforcement program.
3. In their third or fourth year of a four-year college criminal justice program.

In order to qualify, students must fall into the above three categories. Students meeting these criteria are invited to obtain a scholarship application form from their local sheriff’s office or online by clicking here.