Criminal Justice Institute  
   

Frequently Asked Questions

 
 

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Basic Peace Officer Certification Academy.  We hope that you will find the answers to some questions you might have. 

Q. What are the prerequisites for attending the academy?
A.

Some prerequisites include: You must be 21 yrs. of age, must be a U.S. citizen, must have a High School diploma; if you do not, then a GED is required with 12 hrs of college credit, and passing the entry exam (among other requirements).  Click on Admission Requirements for a complete list.

Q. Through completion of this program, will I be certified by TCLEOSE as a Basic Peace Officer?
A. Yes.  This 704-hr course prepares the student for the Texas Peace Officer Licensing Exam, which certifies you by TCLEOSE.
Q. What is the first step I need to take to apply for the academy?
A. The first requirement is our entry exam.  You must pass the ABLE Exam to attend the academy.  Click on ABLE Exam or Calendar for dates.
Q. If I happen to fail the entry exam, how many chances do I have and do I have to pay again?
A.

The ABLE Exam is offered a couple of times before the starting date of an academy.  You can take the exam as many times as needed to pass and there is a $10.00 fee each time.

Q. How do I apply or register for the academy?
A. Registration for the academy takes place when your tuition is paid (3 working days prior to the first day of class).  You must have all the requirements turned in before the first class day.
Q. What is the total cost for the academy?
A. The tuition for the course is $1,200.00. 
 Other expenses include textbooks, supplies, and uniforms. Click on Tuition for more information.
Q. What is the length of the course?
A. The length of the course depends on whether you attend the full-time academy (approx. 5 months).
Q. Do you have to be physically fit to train in the academy?
A. As training cadets, you will be expected to perform certain training functions. The physical training includes: push-ups, sit-ups, 1.5 mile running, marching, standing at attention,  calisthenics, defensive tactics, take down maneuvers, and arresting procedures. Baton training and firearms training are also part of the academy training. Each student must be able to participate in all the training.
Q. After I am certified by TCLEOSE as a Basic Peace Officer, where can I apply for a job?
A. You can work for any Law Enforcement agency in the state of Texas.  Some agencies include:  Police Departments, Sheriff's Office, and Constable's Office.
Q. Where are the classes stationed at - UTB/TSC or ITEC Campus?
A. Our classrooms and offices are located at ITEC Campus (formerly Amigoland Mall) in Brownsville, Texas. While our classes are held at ITECC, some of the training will be scheduled at Sam's Stadium, the firing range, or the airport (cadets are notified on a daily basis).

For any further questions, email us at cji@utb.edu or call us at (956) 882-4177.

 
       
 

301 Mexico Blvd. | Brownsville, Texas 78520 | (956) 882-4177 | cji@utb.edu

 
The University of Texas at Brownsville