About half of Cincinnati's police officers have college degrees, according to data released by the police department.
The data shows 40% of the officers, including those at higher ranks, have a bachelor's degree or higher. Another 10% have associate's degrees.
Here are a few other highlights from the data:
- About 13% reported their highest education level as high school.
- About 34% reported their highest education level as "some college."
- At least 33 officers and specialists and another 37 ranking officers hold master's degrees.
- Among ranking officers (sergeants and above), 48% percent hold bachelor's degrees or higher.
- At least six officers hold doctorates and law degrees.
According to census data, about 37% of Cincinnati's population holds a bachelor's degree or higher.
On Dec. 17, Chief Eliot Isaac swore in 14 newly promoted officers. Of those receiving promotions, nine had college degrees.
Among them was Lt. Jennifer Mitsch, who graduated from Turpin High School and holds a master's degree in human resource development from Xavier University. She also recently earned her doctorate in education in leadership studies from Xavier University as well.
Mitsch has been on the force since 1998.
Lt. Victoria Weyda and Lt. Stephenie Fassnacht were also promoted and hold master's degrees in criminal justice from the University of Cincinnati, and Sgt. Brian Carr has a master's degree in business administration from Northern Kentucky University.
Chief Isaac explained that law enforcement as a profession is becoming more scientific in its approach to crime and therefore more education is necessary. He said he thinks Cincinnati police are ahead of the curve in that regard.
"I think we stand out, but law enforcement as a whole is moving in that direction," Isaac said.
Isaac holds a master's degree from Xavier. After high school, he enrolled in Ohio State University, but struggled to finance his education.
He joined the Army National Guard and eventually enrolled at the University of Cincinnati, but still had problems finding the money to complete his degree.
After joining the police force, he was able to take advantage of their tuition reimbursement program and earn both of his degrees.
"To give a shout out to my alma mater, they believe in educating the entire person," Isaac said.
He said that education in policing is important because it improves critical thinking skills and creates a more well-rounded individual.
He explained that for years law enforcement was seen by some as a blue collar job, but as policing has evolved and become more complex, it has turned into a more professional career.
Lt. Steve Saunders said he wouldn't be surprised if the Cincinnati Police Academy eventually resulted in graduates earning associate's degrees. He said the time officers spend there does count toward degrees at some local colleges.
Currently, Cincinnati officers are offered tuition reimbursement. They get 100% of their tuition paid for if they get an "A" grade, 80% for a "B" and 70% for a C.
Saunders, who also holds a master's degree from Xavier, summed it up: "We're trying to police smarter, not harder."
Source link
