Prepare for the rigorous Southern California police academy by enrolling in a pre-employment preparation class.
Southern California police training is challenging and rigorous but very rewarding. Depending on qualifications, entry-level police officers in Southern California can earn as much as $82,000 while protecting their community.
Applying
Enrollment in a Southern California police training academy requires the completion of a job application in the county of your choice. If your application is accepted, the next steps are to pass the physical agility test (PAT) and the written test and to interview with your county's review board. After receiving passing scores on the PAT, written test and interview, you will be enrolled in the police academy associated with your county.
Curriculum
Southern California police training is described by the Ventura County Police Academy as "fast-paced" and "para-military style." Cadets undergo rigorous physical training and learn techniques of weaponless defense, control holds, vehicle pullovers and firearms usage. The Ventura County Police Academy states that trainees also receive instruction on ethics, the California court system, first aid and CPR, report writing, radio communications, police-community relations and criminal law.
Time Frame
Basic training for Southern California police academies typically consists of 8- to 12-hour days for 21 to 40 weeks, depending on the county. Cadets may option to enroll in extended or specified trainings to qualify for higher-paid positions. Cadets are paid for academy attendance but are not officers of the law until graduation.
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