What Do You Need To Get Into The Police Academy

The Defining Moment Of Police Academy

For many new recruits, the most intimidating part of police academy is their first encounter with the instructors.

Once recruits have been introduced to their instructors, they will be quickly whisked away to take part in the process of Reflection:

They will bring them out into the hallway, theyll have them do push ups, sit ups, wall sits. Various other forms of exercise to intentionally break them down, so they can build them back up in the form of a police officer. Sergeant Paul Davis

If the process of reflection seems a lot like day-one in the military, thats entirely by design. The instructors may seem harsh, unpleasant and generally intimidating to be around, but its vital for new recruits to get used to having superior officers and a rigid chain of command.

Many trainees have limited career experience, especially in such a physically and mentally demanding job as the police force. Learning to handle pressure from the outset could save the lives of fellow officers in the future.

Universal Police Academy Requirements

All right, so first thing first, let us begin by discussing the universal police academy requirements. The universal police academy requirements are the ones that are similar across the states, and every entrant willing to become a part of the police academy needs to meet these requirements in order to pass through the academy successfully. So, without any further due, let us jump straight to the universal police academy requirements.

What Subjects Are Needed To Become A Police Officer

Math and science are key for conducting investigations on the job. English and Spanish allow you to better communicate with the public. Physical education and psychology assist with connecting with the public and keeping them, you and your partner safe. What subjects do you need to take in high school to become a police officer depend on how far you want to go in your career. A criminal education background is very helpful. Helpful characteristics include negotiating skills, empathy, mental agility and physical stamina.

Recommended Reading: How To Obtain A Police Report Number

How Does Police Academy Training Work

No matter which program you choose, before beginning work at a police department, you will have to enter a police academy for formal training. This training will consist of various elements that prepare you for life as a police officer, including training it the classroom, field training that walks you through the rigors of the day-to-day work, and in-service training that allows you to begin working with the public on a probationary basis. Heres more about police academy training:

Classroom education

The classroom curriculum will focus on a variety of subjects, ranging from the law itself to administrative and department procedures. Cadets will also learn not just what the law is, but how to apply it in the real world. For example, a police officer may know that probable cause is required for a warrant to conduct a search, but what about the exceptions where a warrant isnt needed? Or what should the officer do or say if an individual contests the validity of the warrant? Much of this classroom training will be necessary before field training can take place or to put the hands-on skills into context.

Field training

In-service training

Tips On Getting Into The Police Academy

Jose Sanchez, TSV Staff Writer|December 7, 2016

The acceptance rate of a lot of police academies are low, and its even harder to graduate. Make sure this job is for you before putting in the hard work.

Being a police officer is one of the most respectable and commendable careers out there. The responsibility that these men and women hold cannot be understated. If you are interested in becoming a police officer, here are some tips on taking a step forward and getting in the police academy.

The goal is to get accepted into the police academy, but the academy doesnt just take anyone who applies. Police academies have a rigorous program, and they only pick people who have the potential to pass.

As with all careers, building an attractive resume is the key to success. Once you have built one, then you can confidently apply to the academy with the hope of being accepted.

So what can you do to build a resume that will help you get accepted?

Joining the military can help you, recently recruited Officer Michael Reilly said. Working in security, loss prevention, and a college degree are all key factors into building your resume.

Reilly is a former Skyline student that was recently accepted into the police academy and started his training about a month ago. The most emphasis he put on in applying was to get your degree.

Majority of the people at the academy have one, its the basis of what you need, Reilly said.

Read Also: How To Check Police Ticket Online

Preparing For A Police Officer Career: Find The Right Environment

When an aspiring police officer chooses to go to school to obtain formal education, a world of possibilities opens up. Here are some of the potential places where the certificate or degree can be earned.

Vocational/Trade School

Some vocational or trade schools have certificate programs that may count towards college credit, such as for a future associate or bachelors degree. Some might offer associate degrees. Vocational or trade schools can provide a way to save money on college costs while receiving necessary college course instruction.

Military

Military experience is well regarded by law enforcement agencies and police departments. Familiarity with firearms, mental toughness, physical conditioning, discipline and an understanding of command structure and culture are all benefits that come with hiring a recruit with military experience.

Community College

Community colleges provide multiple options for students who want to become police officers. Students can complete their associate degree in two years or a certificate in a few months. As an added bonus, many community colleges allow credits earned in a certificate program to go towards an associate degree.

Law Enforcement School

4-year schools

Departments that require a bachelors degree are often found at the federal level. However, even if a four-year degree isnt required, getting a bachelors degree can be a prudent decision: it can increase the chances of getting hired and promoted.

Understanding Of Basic Science

Like math, science class requirements help potential police officers learn critical thinking and analytical skills. Police officers interested in forensics, detective work and crime analysis benefit from chemistry classes, human anatomy and physiology. These classes incorporate scientific principles with hands-on lab work.

You May Like: How Do I Get An Accident Police Report

How To Prepare For The Police Academy In 2021

Let’s get this straight from the start. Every police academy is different. The standards one agency has may be completely different than the standards of another agency of an agency city or town.

The first step in preparing for the Academy is to reach out to the agency you are interested in joining and learning from them first hand what to expect.

Find an officer that is fresh out of the academy and ask them all the questions you have.

Common questions to ask include:

• What is the typical day look like in the Academy? What about a week?
• What does the PT look like?
• How many days were you running?
• Did you do any strength training?
• Did you get any breaks throughout the day?
• What does education look like?
• How much time did you spend time outside the Academy preparing or studying?
• Is there anything that you wish you knew before starting the Academy?
• Is there any advice you can give me before I start?

It is best to do research about the requirements of the Academy well before the Academy starts.

We recommend starting your training for the Academy at least 12 weeks out.

The more information you know about the Academy, the better you will be able to structure your fitness training leading up to the start.

Almost all Academies will have a PT test standard. Many require the recruits to pass the PT test before the Academy starts, while some require the recruits must pass the test at the end of the Academy.

Again, research and ask the agency beforehand.

Join The State Police

Please ensure your EMAIL contact information is up to date as this will be the primary means of communication for upcoming future candidate processing.

Please check your email, including spam, for these notices.

Candidates are reminded to maintain their physical fitness in preparation of a future Academy class announcement.

Read Also: How Do You Apply To Become A Police Officer

Police Academies Are Learning Institutions

Above all else, police academies are places of learning. Each state has different requirements dealing with the mandated curriculum and training hours a recruit has to have before getting law enforcement or POST certification. Typically, academy recruits will spend upwards of 800 hours or more in training before they graduate. Most of this instruction takes place in a classroom.

Academics are very important in police academy training. Recruits usually take at least one test a week while they are in the academy, and there are strict rules in place about getting a passing score.

In Florida, for example, recruits must receive an 80% or higher on each test while they are in the academy. If they fail to achieve 80% on any test, they have to leave the academy. Developing effective study habits is essential for academy success.

Whats Covered In Academy Training

Local agencies, such as the Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training, dictate the level of training required to become a police officer in their region. Academy training includes a blend of classroom and practical training. Youll take classes in firearms, first aid, criminal law, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, and investigations. At the same time, youll learn about department processes for procedures like arrests and reports.

Most programs will include specialized training, based on the location. For example, departments in large metro areas may train on counterterrorism, riot control, and bomb squad. In addition, other programs may focus on community policing, problem-solving, and patrolling.

Recommended Reading: Where To View Police Reports Online

What Are The Police Academy Exams Like

During your weeks of training, youre preparing for a series of exams. In most academies, you take around 14 written exams, plus 4 practicals on firearms, defence tactics, driving, and first aid.

These tests are varied and challenging. If you fail them, you fail out of the academy. However, there are rules and tricks to help you prepare for these exams and successfully complete training.

Tips To Get Into The Police Academy

Although the application process involves multiple steps, there are key aspects that will make it easier to get into the academy and start your career. The first step is getting a degree in criminal justice, forensics, or a related field. While you can be accepted with a high school diploma or an associates degree, a bachelors degree will improve your chances due to the higher level of training and education.

You will also want to work on your physical fitness before you start your application. You must pass the fitness exam to become a police officer or a detective. Preparing in advance will help you reach your goals by giving you the physical strength and stamina you need to pass the exam. While physical fitness standards differ for each state, you will want to be able to do pull-ups, push-ups, and related exercises. Building up your stamina by running will also help with your goals.

If you have never handled a firearm, then you may want to take a firearm safety course before entering the police academy. The training will teach you to handle a gun and prevent accidents.

Going through the police academy gives you the training you need to work as an officer and start your career in law enforcement. By taking measures to improve your chances to get into the academy, you will be able to feel confident in your abilities after you start your training.

You May Like: What Cities Have Defunded Police

Law Enforcement Degrees & Training

Police Officer Selection Procedures

Aside from passing the physical fitness test standards, you also need to go through the following process. Note that the list only includes the most basic requirements, and in all likelihood the academy may impose additional steps.

• Pass the Civil Service written examination.
• Applicants have to undergo a through physical examination.
• Applicants have to undergo a polygraph screening.
• You will be subjected to a complete psychological assessment.
• If youre applying at the Miami Police Department and other departments in the state, youll need to undergo a background check and provide access to your records.

Physical Training

The toughest part is the physical training, and its here where a lot of the dropout rate surges. During the course of training youll be doing a lot of crawling, running and lifting / pushing heavy objects. The objective of course, is to determine your agility, flexibility and endurance and if you have what it takes to be a cop.

One of the best ways to learn how to prepare for the police academy is to use a guide like . Unlike other tutorials on the subject, this guide provides comprehensive coverage of pre and post academy workouts and explains laws and procedures that aspiring police officers need to know.

Read Also: How To Obtain Accident Police Report

Don’t Miss: How Do Police Check Insurance

Western Australia Police Academy

The WA Police Academy, Joondalup was officially opened on 15 February 2002.

Located in the northern suburbs, 36 km from Perth, the $47 million complex occupies 8.7 hectares of prime land.

Just a short walk from the Joondalup business district and a major bus/train interchange, the Academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities.

Situated adjacent to two major tertiary institutions, , the Academy is part of the Joondalup Learning Precinct. Although maintaining a separate identity, the Academy shares facilities with both institutions and has developed mutually beneficial partnerships to develop academic courses that increase the standing of qualifications attained through Academy programs. The development of this alliance will facilitate and foster a learning environment.

The Academy is designed with considerable emphasis being placed on functionality, aesthetics and developing an open learning centre which encourages engagement with community members.

Read Also: How To Become A Police Captain

How To Sign Up For The Police Academy

Related

• What Are the Qualifications to Be a V.A. Hospital Police Officer?

Becoming a police officer is a rewarding career that adds value to the community. The process for signing up and getting into a police academy varies from state to state, but qualification requirements are similar nationally. Expect to undergo background checks and fitness assessments as well as commit to weeks or months of training and classes. Your local police department is your best resource to confirm the specific application process in your area.

Dont Miss: How Do You Find A Police Report Online

Read Also: How Many Blacks Killed By Police In 2016

Ct Police Academy Training

The Connecticut Police Academy is approximately 22 weeks long. Recruit officers reside at the Academy from 8 a.m. on Monday to 6 p.m. Friday each week. Recruits must successfully pass, with a grade of 70% or better, each of 17 different academic areas as well as successfully pass each of a series of different practical skill areas . Additionally, recruits must complete a field and departmental training program consisting of a minimum of 400 additional hours.

Programs In The Police Academy

When you decide to pursue your career by going through the police academy, you will learn relevant skills based on your goals and the needs of the police. The academy trains in criminal law, defensive tactics, firearms safety, first aid, policing, and related topics. The exact standards and programs available through the police academy depend on the state. Each state sets different standards for the programs, so you will want to evaluate the details for your state to determine the training you can expect.

Keep in mind that you will also go through physical training as part of your studies. The physical training focuses on helping you pass the physical fitness test when you complete the program.

Don’t Miss: How Do You Become A Military Police

Get Accepted & Paying Your Way

Admission requirements can vary widely depending on the type of program and institution offering it. Another consideration is how to pay for this education and training. During your application process, keep the following pointers in the back of your mind to help you get into the best program to meet your needs and goals as a future police officer.

Entrance requirements

Entry into various degree programs in law enforcement will all require some general points, such as completing an application, paying an application fee and presenting proof of high school graduation.

The associate degree program might require:

• A personal statement
• Transcripts from any other college courses taken

The bachelors degree might require additional information:

• An essay
• Transcripts from associate degree work
• Completion of certain prerequisites
• A resume of related experience

Application process & fees

Paying for Your Program

How much a training or educational program costs depends greatly upon the degree level you want to obtain. For instance, obtaining an associate degree will cost much less than a bachelors degree will. To learn more about financial aid options and how those will affect your financial bottom line, visit our online financial aid handbook:

Step 4