Chattahoochee Technical College and the Cobb County Police Department (CCPD) have launched a new partnership that creates a direct, supportive pathway from college coursework to a full-time career in public safety. Through this agreement, students in Chattahoochee Tech’s Public Safety Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program can complete a portion of their degree through the Cobb County Police Academy — and upon graduating from the academy, begin their careers as CCPD officers.
This collaboration streamlines the transition from academic study to hands-on training, reducing duplicated coursework and ensuring that classroom learning aligns directly with the skills taught at the academy.
A Clear Path From Student to Sworn Officer
Students begin by completing 39 hours of general education and occupational courses at Chattahoochee Tech. Once they reach that milestone, they work with their academic advisor to apply to the Cobb County Police Academy. The application process includes an online application, background review, physical agility testing, and interviews to ensure students meet the department’s hiring standards.
After acceptance, students complete the remaining 21 hours of their degree through academy coursework, including instruction in criminal law, investigations, patrol operations, emergency vehicle operation, and firearms. These academy courses count toward the Public Safety Technology AAS degree, allowing students to complete their education while preparing for real-world policing.
Upon successful completion of the academy, students become eligible for employment with the Cobb County Police Department — entering the workforce with both an associate degree and full law enforcement training.
Chief Ferrell’s Perspective: Strengthening the Future of Public Safety
Cobb County Police Chief James Ferrell emphasized the significance of this partnership for both students and the community:
“The Cobb County Police Department is proud to partner with Chattahoochee Technical College on a forward-looking program that invests in the future of public safety. This initiative allows students in the college’s Public Safety Technology program to earn an associate’s degree while completing our department’s training academy.
By combining academic instruction with hands-on law enforcement training, we are preparing the next generation of officers to meet the demands of modern policing with both knowledge and practical experience.”
President Pence’s Perspective: Empowering Students to Make a Lasting Impact
Chattahoochee Technical College President Heather Pence highlighted how the agreement supports the college’s mission and expands opportunities for students to contribute meaningfully to their communities:
“At Chattahoochee Tech, we’re committed to helping students build meaningful careers that strengthen our communities,” said President Pence. “This agreement with the Cobb County Police Department reflects the power of true community partnership. By working closely with CCPD, we’re creating a clear, guided pathway into public safety careers that is rooted in collaboration and shared purpose.
By connecting our academic foundation with CCPD’s exceptional training, we’re helping students move confidently from college to a career of service — and empowering them to make a lasting impact in the communities they will serve.”
Continuing the Pathway to Education and Public Service
Applications for the upcoming semester at Chattahoochee Tech are open now. For further details, visit www.chattahoocheetech.edu. More information about becoming a member of the Cobb County Police Department can be found on the Join Cobb PD website at https://joincobbpolice.com/.
About the Public Safety Technology AAS Program at Chattahoochee Tech
Chattahoochee Tech’s Public Safety Technology AAS program prepares students for a wide range of criminal justice and public safety careers. The program blends classroom learning with practical skills, helping students build a strong foundation for roles in policing, corrections, security, investigations, and related fields. Students who complete the program and the CCPD Police Academy may pursue certification through the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council.
About the Cobb County Police Academy
The Cobb County Police Academy provides comprehensive, state-certified training for individuals entering the law enforcement profession. The academy delivers rigorous instruction in criminal law, emergency response, defensive tactics, firearms, investigations, and community-oriented policing. Its mission is to prepare recruits to serve with professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to public safety. Graduates of the academy join a department dedicated to protecting the community through excellence in service and ongoing professional development.
