Police academies are state specific in their teachings. When considering attending a police academy it is essential to ensure that the school is accredited by the state in which the applicant wants to work. In some states, the applicant has to be hired for a job before they can attend. Some states are the opposite; they want the applicant to have completed the academy before applying for a police position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to understand the requirements for their state.
In North Carolina, many potential law enforcement officers go the N.C. Justice Academy in Salemburg, N.C. to do their training. The school has proven to be a successful training environment for local and state police agencies throughout North Carolina. The academy was purchased in 1973. The academy was so successful, that in 1998 a mirror site was opening on the western side of the state.
To attend the academy, the applicant must complete a basic law enforcement training course first. They must also pass a rigorous background check, physical examination, and screening interview. The goal of the school is to improve the effectiveness, professionalism and problem solving skills of their students. They train over eight thousand students, on average, each year.
Those attending the academy come out prepared to take on the jobs as police officers, sheriff deputies and other law enforcement roles. The campus is large, covering over 100 acres. They have classrooms, dorms, firing ranges, a driving track, computer lab, gym and more. They can provide everything from a full basic police training course, to weekend refreshers and ongoing education opportunities. They also offer some online courses.
The campus also allows other state agencies to use its services to train their personnel. Agencies such as Parks and Recreation, Forest Services and Division of Motor Vehicles periodically use various aspects of the campus to train their personnel. Students report that they enjoy the atmosphere of the campuses. They also appreciate the rural setting both campuses utilize.
Attendees get the opportunity to participate in numerous hands on activities. Three firing ranges offers practice for long and short range weapons training. Students receive instruction on fire arms handling, care and use. Everyone from novice to sharpshooter can learn and hone their skills here.
The driving track is another favorite among students. They get to drive in various weather conditions and practice aggressive and evasive driving techniques. The students can gain confidence in a controlled environment. This unique training improves public safety by ensuring that officers know how to handle their vehicles in any situation.