If you’ve been offered a law enforcement position with a police department, your next step will be attending the police academy. Here’s what you need to know about attending the police academy in preparation for becoming a law enforcement officer.
Duration of Training
The length of time required to complete the police academy varies by state and academy, but typically, it takes around six months to finish the training program.
Cost of Attendance
If you have been offered a law enforcement position, you will not have to pay for the academy. In fact, you will receive your full starting salary while training. If you attend the academy without a job offer, you will need to pay tuition, which averages around $6,700. However, you might be eligible for partial tuition reimbursement if you secure a law enforcement job after completing the academy.
Types of Police Academies
There are different types of police academies, including:
- State Police Academies: Official academies run by the state.
- Independent Approved Academies: Conducted at local community colleges or educational facilities.
- Department-Specific Academies: Required for new recruits of certain departments.
Some academies require you to live on-site during training, while others allow you to live at home and attend classes daily or in the evenings.
Academy Experience
While police academies are not military institutions, they often have a similar environment. You will receive numerous orders from superior officers and will be expected to follow them quickly and correctly. Mistakes might lead to additional physical exercises, such as extra push-ups. It's important to remain respectful, attentive, and compliant.
Classes and Curriculum
The curriculum at police academies is mandated and includes both classroom and practical instruction. Classroom topics typically include:
- State Law
- Investigation Techniques
- Computer Skills
- Report Writing
Practical training covers:
- Firearms Handling
- First Aid
- Driving
- Combat Techniques
Testing
You will be tested on the material covered in your classes. Most states require recruits to score at least 70% on all tests, though some states require a minimum score of 80%.
Physical Testing
In addition to academic tests, you will undergo physical fitness tests. These assessments measure your strength, endurance, and agility through various exercises such as:
- Running
- Obstacle Courses
- Simulated Foot Chases
- Vertical Jumps
- Fence-Climbing
- Handgun Trigger Squeezing
- Dragging a Simulated Body
Post-Graduation
Upon graduating from the police academy, you become a certified police officer. Your next step will be to complete a field training program with a senior officer before you are ready to operate independently.
Conclusion
Completing the police academy is a significant achievement and marks the beginning of your career in law enforcement. Stay focused, work hard, and welcome to the force!