MS in Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership

Scholarships and Payment Plans for Law Enforcement Professionals

Get financial aid and reduced tuition for your online master’s degree program

In addition to financial aid, the University of San Diego and other organizations provide additional financial support for students to further their education. Below is a partial list of scholarships that are available to our students.

Qualify for Reduced Tuition

The University of San Diego is offering members of law enforcement and public safety associations or unions a reduced tuition rate of $679 per credit hour (regular $729). Active duty military and veterans are also eligible for this discount. A reduced tuition rate will be available for the entire length of the degree as long as the student remains a member of the association or union, etc.

Qualifications and Process:

• Submit a completed application packet and become admitted to the Masters in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership program.
• Provide evidence of active union membership (membership card or other proof*). Military and veterans can provide a letter from a current supervisor, officer, or the Veterans Affairs
• The discount tuition will apply to the first course and will continue through the lifetime of the degree as long as the student’s preferred status is maintained, ex. union/association membership stays current.

*If a membership card is not available, the applicant must obtain a letter from an association, union, military or veterans affairs representative validating membership.

Ask Your Employer About Tuition Reimbursement and Educational Incentives

Many law enforcement agencies and organizations include tuition reimbursement and salary increases as part of their benefits. Check with your human resources department or union representative to see if your organization offers tuition reimbursement or salary increases for obtaining your master’s degree.

See if You Qualify for Student Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. Qualifying employers include government organizations at any level (federal, state, local, or tribal), and not-for-profit organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Interested students who work in criminal justice and are still paying off student loans from their undergraduate degree may find relief with the PSLF program.

Sworn, full-time law enforcement or corrections officers who have existing NDSL/Perkins Loans may qualify for up to 100% loan forgiveness over five years. Read more about NDSL/Perkins Loan cancellation eligibility. Benefits also exist for Military service, firefighters and Peace Corp volunteers.

Apply for Federal Financial Aid

The USD Office of Financial Aid is available to assist students with the cost of tuition. Students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the priority deadline will be considered for all types of financial aid at USD. The priority deadline to file the FAFSA is April 1 of each year for graduate students. Please visit the Office of Financial Aid for more details, and ask your Enrollment Advisor to send you the instructions for setting up an FSA ID and completing your FAFSA application.

Take Advantage of the Tuition Payment Plan

USD offers a monthly payment plan to allow for payment in five installments each semester. A $50 non-refundable processing fee must be paid when signing up for each semester. To learn more about setting up a tuition payment plan contact the One Stop Student Center.