Nine KSP Trooper cadets earn degrees in new college credit program

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) — A change in the KSP hiring policy a year ago has increased the pool of trooper applicants.

The policy change allows trooper applicants, who did not have 60 hours college credits, a chance to go to the academy.

Nine cadets in the current academy class have earned an Associate’s Degree in General occupational and Technical Studies from the Bluegrass Community and Technical College.

One of the cadets achieved the distinction of being Cadet Class #96 Valedictorian.

Without the new program, these nine individuals wouldn’t have been able to apply for the academy.

Before this program was in place, KSP recruiters say solid applicants were being passed over because of the previous policy requiring a college background.

Some of those without a college background were unable to attend because of the cost or supporting families and now this program gives them a chance to become a trooper.

KSP says that trooper numbers are not dropping, but now they will have a broader pool to choose from to ensure they are getting the best troopers.

Prior to the new guideline, applicants were required to have 60 hours of college credit, two years of active duty military experience or two years of certified police officer experience.