Corrections Officers Now Eligible to Attend Michigan’s Community Colleges Tuition-Free
LANSING —Corrections officers needing college credits are now eligible to attend one of the state’s 31 community colleges tuition-free under a new grant program, Michigan Community College Association announced today.
Current state law requires state corrections officers to complete 15 college credits as a requirement for employment. To help officers complete this requirement, MCCA established the Michigan Corrections Officer Grant Program to support tuition and fees at any of its colleges. Funding for the program was included in the Fiscal Year 2023 State Budget.
“Corrections officers are critical to the safety of our communities and Michigan community colleges are pleased to make it easier for them to obtain the credit they need,” said MCCA President Brandy Johnson. “Our colleges are located in every corner of the state, making them more accessible for learners that are working and attending classes at the same time. This grant program removes barriers to success for our state’s corrections officers.”
To be eligible for the Michigan Corrections Officer Grant Program and free tuition, corrections officers must meet the following criteria:
- Be employed by MDOC
- Earned less than 15 college credits
- Received approval from MDOC for the program
- Enroll at a community college in Michigan
“This grant program is going to make a huge difference for corrections officers needing to complete their education requirements,” said MDOC Director Heidi Washington. “The ability for our officers to complete their credits at any of the 31 community colleges tuition free is a great opportunity.”
To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit www.mcca.org/Michigan-Corrections-Officer-Grant-Program
ABOUT MICHIGAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE ASSOCIATION
The Michigan Community College Association is the unified voice for Michigan’s community
colleges, empowering members to lead in the areas of student success, talent development,
and community vitality. MCCA exists to strengthen public awareness and recognition
of the role of community colleges, and support members in delivering education and
training that is responsive to changing labor-market needs. It is focused on fostering
collaboration, connection, and partnerships among community colleges and stakeholders.
Learn more at www.mcca.org.
ABOUT THE MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
The Michigan Department of Corrections is one of the principal state departments tasked with overseeing the state’s prisons, the parole and probation systems, the Michigan Parole Board and reentry services. The MDOC is focused on long-term public safety, which it helps to achieve by training dedicated corrections professionals who utilize evidence-based practices and programs which promote job training, education and more to help create individual success and lower recidivism. Learn more at Michigan.gov/corrections
