Law Enforcement Officer, Certificate

Program Code: 7702

The Law Enforcement Officer basic recruit training program-known commonly as the police academy-prepares students for a career in law enforcement to protect the lives and property of fellow citizens. Law enforcement officers patrol the community, investigate crimes, and prepare cases for prosecution. For those seeking dual certifications, the Institute of Public Safety also offers a law enforcement officer to correctional officer crossover certification.

The law enforcement academy at the Institute of Public Safety is fast-paced and highly structured, consisting of a curriculum developed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The program spans two semesters at 770 contact hours and runs 40 hours per week. Instructors with years of real-world experience deliver the curriculum to students outfitted with training equipment that simulates the uniforms and duty-belts worn by police officers daily. The use of these aids greatly enhances mental and physical cognition as students prepare for their new profession. Finally, the program culminates in a crucible known as scenario weekend, where students demonstrate their newly acquired skills during reality-based training scenarios.

The program is presented in one of the most innovative and high-tech facilities in the nation and covers a broad range of academic and hands-on training that qualifies students to take the state certification exam from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC).

To increase earning potential and help career advancement, students who complete this certificate can sign up for the Criminal Justice Bridge Course. In one three-credit summer class, you can earn up to 24 credits toward an Associate in Science degree in Criminal Justice Technology.

Licensure and Certification
Upon completion of this program, students can earn professional certifications and occupational licenses, including those concerning out-of-state reciprocity.

Admission Requirements
Requirements for admission to the law enforcement academy are established by Santa Fe College Institute of Public Safety in accordance with Florida Statute 943.13, Florida Administrative Code 11B-27, 11B-35, and include: 

1. Must pass the FDLE Criminal Justice Basic Abilities Test (CJBAT)
2. Must be at least 19 years of age
3. Must be a U.S. Citizen
4. Must be a high school graduate or equivalent
5. Cannot be convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement, including a plea of nolo contendere
6. Must have fingerprints on file with the program
7. Must pass a physical examination by a licensed physician, physician’s assistant, or licensed advanced practice registered nurse
8. Must be of good moral character
9. Must submit to controlled substance testing

Program Goals and Outcomes

1. Describe the importance of ethical behavior and accountability for persons serving in a law enforcement agency.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of criminal justice system components, terms, concepts, legal issues, and processes.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of interpersonal communication strategies, radio communication procedures, interviewing methods, and report writing techniques.
4. Describe the scope and classifications of crimes and the manner in which criminal cases are processed in the US Court System.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of patrol functions and the importance of community relations and partnerships.
6. Demonstrate the fundamentals relating to criminal investigations and the collection and processing of physical evidence.
7. Demonstrate a knowledge and proficiency in high liability topics that include administering first-aid, CPR, Handling and using firearms, applying defensive tactics, and maintaining functional fitness.