What are my chances of getting a job after i "self sponsor" myself through a accredited Police Academy

Question

I dont want to spend $4,000 on a certification i will not be able to use, and do they really hire while attending the academy???

Answer 1

I work in training, learning and development - this sounds suspect to me.  No organisation, or individual can guarantee you a job.  So, you may indeed speed a fortune and find that you still do not get the job.  This happens all the time - in lots of countries.  The people who own these 'accredited academies' promise the world just to get paid bums on seats.  You will find that you will not actually get anything in writing that says if you do not get your money back you will be entitled to a refund.  Never heard of a refund.

To be honest - is there a way you can get in through a Government or Police Department owned AND operated training organisation - then chose that path.

Answer 2

It can work out for you.  That's what I did.  Keep your grades and class participation as high as possible.  Be sure you can handle the physical training regimen, hand-to-hand combat training, and not be afraid of firearms. If you have a clean criminal background  and reasonably good health the odds of your being offered a position with some agency are pretty good. Whether or not they will reimburse you for your certification is another question though.  

Answer 3

Good.

Many smaller agencies don't have the resources to put someone through the academy.  So, they require you already be certified to apply with them.  Since these agencies are ususally small and pay a little less (think University PD, small towns, Constables offices, etc.) they will often take someone with no experience but a valid certification.

If you are willing to start out in a smaller agency with a little less pay, then this may be a good route to go.  Get some experience, and then apply with a larger department.

Answer 4

Your chances are pretty good if you graduate near the top of your class.

Your chances are not as good if you graduate near the bottom, and had to retake more than a few tests to complete the academy.

Answer 5

I had a few friends in FL do that.  Don't expect to get hired right away.  Find a job in a related field (we worked in Mall Security and Loss Prevention) and stay active in your job search.  Good luck to you!