It is important that police officers take recruitment procedures very seriously. Without an intense screening and application process, errors in judgment can lead to massive mistakes that could affect the safety and well-being of others on the force. The selection process doesn’t stop once someone has been approved -- officers are constantly evaluated throughout their entire career especially when they are eligible for advancement.
Police, fire and civil-service commissions complete most of the selection process and the police chief has some input in the final decision as to who is hired or promoted. Written tests, performance evaluations and assessments are used when selecting a police supervisor. Assessment centers are an unbiased way for departments to choose supervisors, because they make candidates perform realistic jobs they will be confronted with in the position.
Most police chiefs are selected from inside the policing ranks and politics often plays a major role in this decision. Other factors include education, experience as a police officer and the ability to work as part of a team.
Police training and education are also very important to one’s growth in the department. Training involves learning “hands on” skills and techniques one will need to know out in the field. It is important for officers -- both rookies and seniors -- to continue their training, especially in the fast-paced and ever changing world of law enforcement.
Police education is constantly changing and improving as well. Some departments require a college diploma before one can join up, while other agencies accept kids right out of high school. The latter seems to be the norm.
This course deals with the importance of police recruitment and selection, and examines in detail the segments of the extensive selection process. Students will also learn about the state of higher education in policing and various types of training including basic, field and in-service methods.
By the end of this course, students will be familiar with the following key terms: Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Americans with Disabilities Act, status tests, tests of morality, oral board, assessment centers, field training and in-service training.