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Partnership offers accelerated degree programs for first responders

July 8, 2024

Northwood University is proud to announce an accelerated program for law enforcement and other first responders to obtain their undergraduate and graduate degrees.

“We worked with experts in law enforcement and public safety to create innovative degree completion pathways that maximize professional training and life experience so first responders will save time and money in their pursuit of education at America’s Free Enterprise University,” noted Dr. Matthew Bennett, vice president of strategic alliances and the Center for Automotive and Mobility Studies at Northwood University.

Through the Law Enforcement and Public Safety Partnership, Northwood can serve first responders at every stage of their careers.

“Coupled with generous tuition pricing for military and first responders, Northwood makes it possible for these brave men and women to earn a bachelor’s degree in as little as one year for a tuition cost of $10,500,” noted Henry Reyna, a retired police officer who leads Northwood’s military and public safety recruiting efforts. 

In addition to serving 34 years in law enforcement, Reyna has successfully operated a private security consulting business since 2008. He has experienced first-hand how a college education helps first responders further develop critical thinking and decision-making skills that can help them advance in their current roles and set the stage for a second career.

“With Northwood’s exclusive offerings, first responders don’t have to break the bank — or spend years in a classroom — to increase their educational attainment,” Reyna said. “This is huge for our local military, police, fire, ambulance, and other public safety personnel.”

Program highlights include:

• 100% online

• Transfer up to 90 credits toward your degree

• Complete your degree in as little as one year

• Earn credits for prior learning, professional training, and work-life experience

• Exclusive public safety pricing: $10,500 for a bachelor of science (for those who have an associate degree at the time of application), and $12,000 for a master of science in organizational leadership (for those who have completed their bachelor of science with Northwood University through this accelerated program).

• Easy admissions process

• Concierge advising support

• Lifelong career services and coaching

“The education is top-notch, and the information learned at Northwood will help first responders advance in their careers and positively impact their respective organizations,” Reyna noted. “Additionally, first responders will appreciate Northwood’s philosophy, which values individual freedom, personal responsibility, the importance of business and free enterprise, as well as truth, honor and integrity — all values shared by our public safety community.”

To apply, submit your free online application here.

For more information, email Henry Reyna at or call (989) 824-3471.

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