Centre County Citizens' Police Academy

The State College Police, Penn State Police, Ferguson Township Police, Patton Township Police, Bellefonte Police, Spring Township Police, and Centre County Sheriff departments are proud to offer the Centre County Citizens' Police Academy in a continuing effort to foster a better police-community partnership.

The citizens' academy would like to invite residents of the Borough of State College, College Township, Harris Township, Ferguson Township, Patton Township, Spring Township, Bellefonte, and Penn State University to participate.

Application

To apply, fill out the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and must pass a background check to be accepted into the academy.

Purpose of the Police Academy

The Citizens' Police Academy is designed to give participants a glimpse behind the badge and to provide information about training, policies, and the many units and divisions within local police agencies. The primary objective of the citizens' academy is to build a better understanding between citizens and the police departments through education and to help citizens make informed decisions about police services, police activity, and why the police can or cannot take action. The police departments benefit by becoming more aware of the community from the participants' interaction and input, which makes the academy a two-way learning experience.

Class Schedule

This eight-week academy will take place from Monday, September 8, to Monday, October 27.

Class Details

The academy is free of charge. However, the class will be limited to 20 participants. The Centre County Citizens' Police Academy actively seeks participants who reflect the rich diversity of our community. Individuals from all ethnic backgrounds, cultural traditions, orientations, age groups, and professions are encouraged to apply. By welcoming a broad range of perspectives, the local departments aim to foster inclusive dialogue and build stronger, more connected, community relationships. 

Accreditation

This program is not an accredited certification course to become a sworn police officer.