The University Police authority originates from legislation written over 100 years ago when the State of Missouri vested the University of Missouri with the power to establish its own police force to maintain order, preserve peace and make arrests. This commission is the same type held by all peace officers in the state. The additional power to expel anyone violating the rules and regulations of the University from the public buildings, campuses, grounds and farms owned by the University of Missouri was also granted. (Revised Statutes of Missouri, Sections 172.350 and 172.355)

University Police Officers carry a second commission through the City of Rolla. In addition to enforcing the rules and regulations of the University, University Police Officers enforce city ordinances and state laws on and around University property. University Police Officers are state licensed peace officers through the Missouri P.O.S.T. Commission (POST), which currently requires 470 hours of certified training.