This program provides students with the training required by the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission (OPOTC) to pursue a career in law enforcement. This program 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 a variety of law enforcement opportunities.
CREDENTIALING INFORMATION
In order to complete successfully, students must complete 100% of the training hours (741 hours) and must pass the Physical Fitness Standards Test given near the end of the program. Successful completers will receive a certificate of completion and are eligible to 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) 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 4 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.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The 2023-2024 Academy is scheduled to begin in August 2023 and complete in late May 2024.
Classes are held Monday through Thursday from 6:00 pm-10:00 pm plus most weekends. The class size is limited to 20 students.
EDUCATIONAL COSTS
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial Assistance is available for those that 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 that 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.