FAQ's

Public Safety

Question: Where do I begin?

Answer: To start the process, you must pass the Florida Basic Abilities Test (FBAT). The basic abilities tests were developed to ensure that trainees entering Florida-certified criminal justice training centers possess the requisite abilities to master the curricula and understand the materials presented to them in training. The FBATs, versions for potential law enforcement and correctional officers, were designed to provide an accurate assessment of the abilities identified by the FDLE as important for success in training and on the job.

Each of the FBATs includes a measure of the same basic abilities but in different proportions as required for each of the two disciplines. The areas of measurement covered in the FBATs include written comprehension, written expression, oral expression, problem sensitivity, inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning, information ordering, spatial orientation, visualization, selective attention and flexibility of closure.

Once you arrive at our testing facility, staff from the Public Safety department will be available for any questions. Also, an application packet will be distributed. Part of the application packet requires a physical (standard sports physical). Once you complete the packet, return it to our office. You will be fingerprinted at that time. A background check will be conducted once your fingerprints have been taken.

Question: What is the cost of the academy?

Answer: The Law Enforcement academy is $2300 and the Corrections academy is $1750. These prices do not include books, uniforms, etc. The three books required for the Law Enforcement academy: General Topics book $6.00 , High Liability book $4.45, and the Florida Statute book $27.70. The Corrections book is $22.00 and the High Liability book is $4.45. Prices are subject to change at any time.

Uniforms are required in the academy. After you have attended orientation, you will go to the College store and order your shirts. At a minimum, we recommend that you purchase two button up shirts and two tee shirts. The button up shirt is worn during regular classroom hours with a pair of black dress slacks, a black dress belt, and dress shoes. During high liability classes - Firearms, Defensive Tactics, First Aid, and Vehicle Operations, students will wear academy tee shirts and black BDU pants with sneakers or duty boots. A black belt is also required.

Question: What about Financial Aid?

Answer: Start the Financial Aid process as soon as possible. You have to apply for Financial Aid every fall. The contact number for Financial Aid is 729-5370. The website is www.fasfa.ed.gov.

Question: Am I guaranteed a job upon completion of the academy?

Answer: No, not necessarily. There are many agencies in the surrounding counties who are always on the "look out" for top notch students and this particular profession is of high demand. See our "links" tab for various agencies.

Question: How long is the academy?

Answer: It depends on which one you prefer. The Corrections Academy is two semesters long. It is offered in the evening from 6-10 pm, Monday-Thursday at our Crestview and DeFuniak campuses and the Niceville campus on most Saturdays, (7:15-6:15 p.m.). The Law Enforcement Daytime Academy is two semesters, 8-5 pm, Tuesday-Saturday. Physical Training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5-6 p.m. The Law Enforcement Nighttime Academy is three semesters, 6-10 p.m., Monday-Thursday and Saturday, 7:15-6:15 p.m.