News Releases

Montgomery County Police and UMGC Launch Educational Partnership

For Immediate Release: Thursday, August 28, 2025

Gaithersburg, MD – The Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD) has established a landmark educational partnership with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) to expand professional development opportunities for department employees and their families.

Through the agreement, MCPD employees, along with their spouses and dependents, will be eligible for discounted tuition rates for undergraduate and graduate programs at UMGC. The initiative underscores UMGC’s commitment to supporting law enforcement personnel in their pursuit of higher education and professional growth.

As part of the partnership, UMGC will grant 60 college credits to officers who complete the police academy, field training, and become certified Maryland police officers. UMGC will also recognize up to 30 additional credits based on prior learning and workplace experiences, such as military training, industry certifications, vocational education, or Google certificates.

“Our ability to recruit top candidates is strengthened when we can also provide veteran officers with a clear pathway to further their education,” said Chief Marc Yamada. “It is an investment in our employees, their families, and the community we serve.”

“This partnership with UMGC gives our police officers and their families an extraordinary opportunity to pursue higher education while continuing their service to the community,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “With benefits valued at up to $60,000, this program can truly change the lives and futures of our officers. It recognizes the value and hard work of their training, and it provides a clear pathway for professional growth. By investing in the education of our officers, we strengthen the department, support families, and build a safer Montgomery County.”

The new program enables MCPD employees to build on their training and real-world experience, expediting the path toward a degree. To further streamline the process, UMGC will waive application fees for MCPD employees.

The Montgomery County Public Safety Training Academy played a key role in facilitating the partnership. The academy’s comprehensive curriculum, combining hands-on training with classroom instruction, ensures recruits receive a well-rounded foundation that UMGC can recognize for academic credit.

UMGC, a nationally recognized leader in adult education, offers flexible, high-quality programs designed to meet the needs of working professionals. By collaborating with MCPD, the university continues its mission of helping adult learners advance their education and careers.

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Release ID: 25-409
Media Contact: S.D. Goff 
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