What to expect from a career in Police Services
A career in police services is physically and mentally demanding, but police programs at Ontario colleges prepare students to meet those demands. From the skills you develop in youth conflict management or community policing to personal development training in fitness, lifestyle management and problem-solving, you’ll leave the program with the skills you need to make it in law enforcement.
If you see yourself upholding the law and working to keep communities safe through police services, here’s what you need to know.
Police Courses
Programs in Police Foundations and Law Enforcement prepare students for work as police officers or for other positions in the field. Courses include psychology, reasoning and conflict resolution to teach students how to problem-solve on their feet, while classes on interviewing and investigation, the criminal code, the Canadian justice system and other legal courses will give them the foundation they need to carry out their daily duties.
Commonly offered as two-year diploma programs, some police programs will involve a work placement. Students will enter the work force in their chosen area and will learn to interact with the community and within the justice system.
General Police Program Requirements
Ontario college police programs require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with a grade 12 English credit. Additional requirements will vary by institution.
Along with academic requirements, physical and mental competency testing, First Aid training and a Police Record Check could all be required. Volunteer experience in the community will be seen as an asset.
Policing Jobs
Graduation from a police program prepares you for work in a number of fields, including (but not limited to):
- Policing / military policing
- Corrections
- Youth corrections
- Private investigation
- Customs
Note: For each of these positions, further testing will likely be required. Police officer applicants may be required to show proof of completion of the Ontario Chiefs of Police Certificate examination.
Ontario Colleges Offering Police Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of police programs at Ontario colleges.
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