Police Departments Hiring in Florida

Are there law enforcement academy courses available online?
There are a few online programs available. However, even though these programs are conducted by recognized or state-certified instructors, they do not confer college credits or continuing education units. It is the student’s responsibility to file a copy of the certificate with your state agency to seek its addition to your training record.
At this time, all credited law enforcement academies require onsite attendance.

How competitive is it to enroll into law enforcement academy?
Competition varies among programs.

How long are most law enforcement academy programs?
If you’re applying for a state or large local police departments, law enforcement academy programs often last 12 to 14 weeks.

Which law enforcement academy should I attend if I’m interested in a smaller agency that is not a state or local police department?
Applicants interested in smaller agencies can attend regional or state academies.

When do most law enforcement academy programs start?
Law enforcement academy programs are open enrollment on an ongoing basis.

Are there nationally ranked law enforcement academies that are more prestigious than other academies?
Law enforcement academies are not currently ranked because states have different curriculum standards. Most law enforcement academies contain similar curriculums taught by different instructors that tailor to the state’s requirements. Police academies that extend over a longer period of time may provide law enforcers with more information. It is best to contact your local state for suggested academies; some academies may be better fits depending on the instructor selection.

What funding options do I have to reduce the cost of attending law enforcement academy?
There are many options to reduce the cost of attending law enforcement academy:

1. Many agencies will support their officers through sponsoring them. Contact your local agency for funding options.
2. Grant opportunities for training are available across the country. Visit the Office of Justice Programs Community Capacity Development Office for tips on effective grant writing for grant writing tips. Another grant route would be to hire a grant writer. Accredited organizations like PoliceOne offer grant writing services for a small fee.
3. Programs through the Homeland Security provide funding based on the number of students attending the program. Specific funding opportunities include Bureau of Justice Assistance.
4. Contact your local law enforcement academy for financial aid options. There are several opportunities available on a local level.

How to Write a Law Enforcement Resume Correctly

The law enforcement officer resume is increasingly a part of applying for a job in law enforcement. Generally speaking, resumes are submitted when you apply for the job and are attached to the application. 

Many people wonder why they have to attach a resume when much of the same information is included in the application. 

The difference is that an application is a response to questions asked by the employer. A resume’s format allows you to convey information in a way that emphasizes your positive attributes and to convince a potential employer that you’re the right person for the job.

Crafting a great law enforcement officer resume is something that will increase your chances of getting the job. What are the components of an effective law enforcement resume? Basically, they’re the same as for any resume. 

Don’t Embellish Your Resume

A resume is your opportunity to stress the things that make you look good while deemphasizing the things that detract from your job profile. 

That said, don’t lie about your background, because your potential employer will check your information. Nothing will sabotage your application more than getting caught stretching the truth or outright lying about something.

Find Examples of Police Resume’s Online

Writing a professional looking resume isn’t all that hard to do. First of all, there are examples of law enforcement officer resume formats that are available on the internet and in books. 

Your resume should have headings such as career goals, education, training, employment history and references. Your resume should be limited to one page and be clear, concise and free of any errors in spelling, grammar and format. Remember that it is a reflection of you and a messy, error filled document leaves a negative impression that won’t get you hired for the job.

Use a Family Member to Check Your Resume

Always have a friend or family check over your resume for errors and omissions. If you feel that crafting a great law enforcement officer resume is beyond your abilities, there are professionals you can hire to do the job for you. A resume writer will usually charge anywhere from $100 and up to do it for you.

Highlight Your Qualities

A law enforcement officer resume should reflect the qualities and experiences that make a good law enforcement officer. Good communication skills, the ability to operate well in stressful situations, leadership ability, good analytical skills and great interpersonal skills are all things that law enforcement employers are looking for when they study your resume.

Make your law enforcement resume work for you to shine the best light possible on your potential as a potentially valuable member of the law enforcement community.