Law enforcement students gather around a training unit car

Law Enforcement Academy - Technical Diploma

Students learn the skills of modern-day law enforcement in this full-time program designed to produce thoroughly competent and confident officers. Graduates of this program begin their careers with an unparalleled level of professionalism through a learner-centered approach via application of scenario-based training. This 720-hour program is designed for individuals with 40 college credits at an associate degree level or higher, or current employment with a sponsoring law enforcement agency. This program meets criteria set by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Training and Standards Bureau.

Program Code: 305042
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Train to Become a Law Enforcement Officer

Help meet the need for qualified officers at NWTC. Students should have at least 40 credits at an associate degree level, or current employment with a sponsoring law enforcement agency. This program meets criteria set by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Training and Standards Bureau.

Program Costs & Financial Aid

See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.

This program is fully eligible for financial aid.

Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.

Explore Locations

Offered At:

Curriculum

Students following the study plan below will complete the Criminal Justice-Law Enforcement Academy technical diploma in the number of semesters shown.

Total Credits 22
  • Curriculum Note: Students must earn a "C" or better in all courses to complete the technical diploma.

Program Outcomes

  • Think critically
  • Manage emergencies
  • Communicate effectively
  • Demonstrate professionalism
  • Conduct investigations
  • Interact with others
  • Demonstrate tactical skills (applies to Certification Track only)

84%

Graduate Employment

with 53% in field

$66,000.00

Median Starting Salary

Source: NWTC Graduate Outcome Survey

Employment Potential

Law Enforcement Officer

  • DNR Officer
  • State Trooper
  • Private Investigator
  • Military Law Enforcement Officer
  • Security Officer

Employment opportunities with additional education

  • Police or Sheriff Administrator
  • Specialized Units (K-9 SWAT, etc)
  • State Agent
  • Federal Agent
  • Jail/Correctional Officer

Note

  • Students must provide a personal email address in their online college application. This email address is where the Academy application packet will be sent.
  • Regardless of prior college credit, all courses must be completed to obtain certifiability with the Law Enforcement Standards Board of the Wisconsin Department of Justice.
  • This program is Financial Aid eligible. Veterans’ Benefits may be used to cover material and program fees. A payment plan is also available.
  • The credits earned through successful completion of this program do not count toward the 60-credit requirement imposed by Wisconsin Administrative Code Section LES 2.01(1)(e) for employed officers. However, academy credits may be applied toward an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice to partially satisfy the college credit requirement.

Industry Credentials

Students who successfully complete this program will receive law enforcement officer certifiability status in the state of Wisconsin.

Online

Classes wherever you have an internet connection. 

  • An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
  • Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
Day
Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Evening
Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Weekend
A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
Full-time
12 or more credits per term.
Part-time
Fewer than 12 credits per term.
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