This program provides students with the training required by the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission (OPOTC) to pursue a career in law enforcement. It has been serving Van Wert and surrounding communities since 1994. Training is under the direction of a State of Ohio-approved Academy Commander. Upon completion of the course, students are eligible to earn the Ohio Peace Officer Certificate, which opens doors to various law enforcement opportunities.
CREDENTIALING INFORMATION
To successfully complete the program, students must complete 100% of the training hours (740 hours) and pass the Physical Fitness Standards Test given near the end of the program. Successful completers will receive a certificate of completion and can take the written examination for Ohio Peace Officers. Passing the state exam entitles graduates to certification by the State of Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission (OPOTC), which is required for employment as a peace officer in the state of Ohio.
ADMISSIONS CRITERIA
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must have a valid driver's license
- Possess a valid high school diploma, GED, or its equivalent
- Pass a drug screen, physical, and FBI & BCI background check
- Have a good driving record as reported on a driving record from your local Bureau of Motor Vehicle Office
- Complete a pre-entrance assessment, WorkKeys scoring four or greater in each of the three areas tested: Math, Workplace Documents (skill to read and comprehend workplace documents), Graphic Literacy (skill to locate and find information)
- Pass a preliminary physical conditioning assessment performing up to the 15th percentile as defined by the New Cooper Standards for Law Enforcement Fitness (included in the packet of information)
- The Program Coordinator and/or Adult Education Director may allow some exceptions to the admissions criteria.
2023-24 Police Academy
GENERAL INFORMATION
The 2025-2026 Academy is scheduled to begin in August 2025 and conclude in late May 2026. Classes and most weekends are held Monday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The class size is limited to 20 students.
EDUCATIONAL COSTS
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial Assistance is available for those who qualify from a variety of sources. Complete a Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for Federal Financial Aid, including Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and Federal Student Loans. For details on all assistance available, see our
Financial Aid page.
Contact the Financial Aid Office to complete certification.
Ohio Means Jobs - Financial Assistance may be available for those who qualify through your local Ohio Means Jobs (OMJ) agency. Students must work directly with OMJ to apply.
Additional information
JOB OUTLOOK
To explore this career further, visit
O*NET Online. The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) is developed under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor.