Montgomery County PD adjusts entry requirements as officer vacancies continue

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) — If you are looking to become an officer with the Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD), the entry requirements have been slightly adjusted. This announcement comes as a new application has opened for Session 81, and the force remains in need of 186 police officers.

Officials said candidates will no longer be required to have 60 college credits when submitting an application. Before, this exemption only applied to those with three years of active-duty military service or full-time law enforcement experience.

According to the police department, the new recruitment cycle includes a significant strategic update to MCPD’s qualifications that are designed to expand the applicant pool while maintaining high standards.

“This change reflects MCPD’s commitment to making policing a more accessible career path while ensuring educational standards are preserved,” wrote the police department in a release.

Despite the change, the police department said every candidate who successfully completes both the Police Training Academy Entry-level Training and Field Training and Evaluation program will earn 60 college credits.

The courses will be completed in partnership with the University of Maryland Global Campus.

“With applications now open for Session 81, MCPD expects continued momentum and more qualified, diverse candidates ready to serve Montgomery County with integrity, professionalism and compassion,” said MCPD.

All applications opened on Oct. 2 and can be completed here.