Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, in partnership with Houston Community College, has established an agreement to award college credit hours to cadets who pass the state's licensing exam and complete a training course, according to a June 11 news release.

The overview

Cadets from the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy will receive 24 credit hours from HCC upon completion of the Basic Peace Officer Course training and state licensing exam, according to the release.

The partnership, which was approved May 13 by Fort Bend County commissioners, comes as part of an initiative to encourage formal education in law enforcement.

“This alliance helps us elevate the professionalism of our agency and better serve the public," Sheriff Eric Fagan said in the release. "By investing in education, we’re preparing individuals who not only uphold the law but also understand the importance of empathy, communication and adaptability. We are proud to support our trainees as they pursue academic and professional excellence.”


Cadets from Class #49, which began May 13, will be the first class to receive credit hours once all requirements are met in October. All subsequent classes will receive the same college credit, FBCSO officials said in an email.

The details

The course credit will stem from Texas Commission on Law Enforcement curriculum, which is mandated by the state to become a Texas Peace Officer, FBCSO officials said.

Officials said the curriculum is comprised of several courses, including:
  • Firearms training
  • Pursuit driving training
  • A physical fitness test
  • Classroom lessons on health and transportation codes
Going forward


The next certification class will begin in February 2026, with the application opening in September of this year, FBCSO officials said in the email. Prospective students can contact the FBCSO at [email protected].

The cost for future classes has not been set, but financial aid will not be available.