Colorado Technical University

Question about Police training?

I was wondering if there are any programs that help the people that are interested in becoming a police officer explore the career and train before hitting the police academy? I'm about to be a freshman in college but i want to explore the field.. :D

Public Comments

1. Most large cites have "civilian" academies. They are there to give civilians a hint about academy training and police work in general. Many community colleges in states that allow self sponsorship have actual academy classes you can sign up for. Many cities allow ride a longs. You apply and get to ride with an officer on patrol, to see what they do. Lots of large departments had (budget cuts stopped most) cadet programs. These were basically internships. They pay you a little more than minimum wage for up to 20 hours a weeks while you attend college. You participate in inside police work, ride a longs and help out a public functions like parades and such. Most used to pay some of your tuition also.
2. Some police departments have police explorer posts, police cadets, auxiliary departments, or citizen police academies. All of which could provide you with some good insight.