Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Program Accredited?
Yes - the program at both Youngstown State University campus and Steubenville campus are accredited, and credits gained during this program may also count towards your degree.
Accredited by the higher learning commission, and is considered an academic program in the criminal justice department at YSU.
How do I Apply?
Application packets can be picked up at the Academy office, in the Cushwa Hall Room 2361 during designated times.
Prospective applicants must submit their completed application in person to the Academy office before specified deadline.
Note: This class requires a permit to be issues by the Academy Director.
The Academy must follow guidelines established by the Ohio Peace Officer Training commission; all admission paperwork must be complete and submitted by the specified deadline.
When do I apply?
Applications will be accepted from:
All potential candidates beginning:
- First Monday in April (Fall Semester)
- First Monday in October (for Spring Semester)
The closing date for applications will be:
- April 30th for Fall Semester
- October 31st for Spring Semester
Don't wait to apply. Program is limited to 30 participants.
When is it?
Youngstown State University Main Campus class group meets Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM with many Saturdays & some Sundays. Academy runs for approximately 16 weeks and primarily follows the University semester schedule.
Steubenville class group meets in the evening, typically 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM. This group is also considered a two-semester program, as opposed to single semester like at YSU Main Campus.
Why should I choose this Program over Others?
Not only does this program cover all your basic OPOTA requirements, but it offers additional training including but not limited to:
- Patrol Rifle Certification
- Daily Physical Training (PT)
- Regime to excel at physical fitness exam
- Supplemental instruction and tutoring available
- State of the art virtual reality (VR) training lab planned for Fall of 2024
Students who successfully complete the Academy will receive either 16 hours of undergraduate credit* or 6 semester hours of graduate credit. Successful completion of the Academy makes the cadet eligible for a letter from the Ohio Peace Officers Training Commission that will qualify them for certification upon being commissioned. Officers commissioned by police departments prior to attending the academy will receive state certification immediately upon successful completion of the academy.
* No college credit will be given unless the student is currently enrolled and has paid all university fees.
Do I need Both Academy Training and a College Degree to be a police officer?
Under current standards there is no degree requirement to be certified as a police officer in the State of Ohio. The only educational requirement is a high school diploma or its equivalent and completion of the Basic Peace Officer Training Academy. Many progressive departments have added college degrees to their minimum hiring standards. There are many benefits for agencies hiring officers with degrees and many incentives for officers to obtain degrees.
What Classes are Required by the State?
The new curriculum consists of more than 700 hours in the following areas:
- Police Administration
- Legal Issues
- Human Relations
- Firearms
- Criminal Investigation
- Physical Conditioning
- First Aid
- Patrol Procedures
- Civil Disorders
- Defensive Driving
- Subject Control
- Traffic Law & Crash Investigation
Will enrollment and payment of fees guarantee acceptance and certification?
All applicants will be required to pass a background investigation and have a medical release signed by a licensed physician. Students must attend all classes and/or makeup any coursework that is missed. In addition, students are expected to meet Academy and YSU behavioral standards.