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Join the Mission. Pursue Justice. Make a Difference.
Since Spring 2020, the WMU Cold Case Program has partnered with the Michigan State Police (MSP) to review and investigate unsolved homicide and missing person cases. Through this unique collaboration, WMU students work directly with MSP investigative teams, gaining hands-on experience with real casework. The program is work-study eligible, and students can earn three academic credits through either an internship or independent study.
Admission to the Program is competitive and based on an application process; acceptance is not guaranteed. Students from any major or minor at WMU are welcome to apply. To be considered, student applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be enrolled as a WMU student during the semester of application
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Have achieved at least sophomore standing (a minimum of 26 completed credit hours) by the semester of application
- Be fully available on Mondays and Wednesdays, with no classes or work conflicts during the semester of participation
- Submit a written essay describing the contributions you (the student) believe you can bring to the Program
Our Open House
Curious about the Cold Case Program? Stop by our Open House on February 4th from 10 AM–4 PM in 1214 Wood Hall!
Meet the team, get your questions answered, and discover what it’s really like to work on real investigations with MSP.
Summer & Fall 2026
Get ready! Applications for the Summer and/or Fall 2026 open on February 4th! Formal registration begins February 2nd.
We encourage interested students to review everything ahead of time so you’re prepared to apply as soon as submissions open. Begin your application here:
Still curious if the Program is the right fit?
Reach out, we’d be happy to answer your questions and help you decide. You can also visit our FAQs page for quick answers to common questions. For more information or assistance with the application process, please contact us at Soc-CCP@wmich.edu.