The North Carolina Sheriffs' Association (NCSA) created the Criminal Justice Scholarship Program to assist students who are dependents of law enforcement officials or who are studying in the criminal justice field and express an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Applicants must be students enrolled for a minimum of 12 credit hours in an undergraduate degree granting criminal justice program at one of the institutions of The University of North Carolina or the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities. Applicants must express an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement and must be recommended by their local sheriff. Selection of recipients is based on the following priorities: Priority 1: a child or step-child of a North Carolina Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff. Priority 2: a child or step-child of any North Carolina law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty. Priority 3: a child or step-child of a North Carolina Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who is deceased or retired (regular or disability). Priority 4: an academically eligible North Carolina criminal justice student with demonstrated financial need (these applicants must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA). One nominee for the scholarship is chosen each year by the financial aid office at each eligible college or university, subject to approval by the NCSEAA or NCICU, and subject to continued funding by the Association. Applications must be approved and signed by the financial aid official at the college or university. The Financial Aid Official will mail the chosen application to either NCSEAA or NCICU. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.