University of Washington Citizen's Academy

What is the Citizen's Academy?

The Citizen's Academy is a 10-week program designed to create greater awareness and understanding between citizens and police. Policing is a collaborative effort that requires an informed citizenry. Citizen's Academy participants get to learn first-hand about law enforcement at the University of Washington.

This is not a training academy for police officers. Those who are interested in becoming police officers should navigate to the University of Washington Human Resources Web page at www.washington.edu/jobs for employment opportunities.

When are classes held?

Participation in the Academy requires a commitment of one afternoon per week for 10 weeks. Each class lasts an average of two hours and is conducted at no cost to the participants. The location of the class is always on campus and is often held at the Fishery Sciences Building located on NE Boat Street.

Click here for the next available class.  [PDF]

Click here for an application.  [PDF]

What topics are covered?

Some of the classroom topics include:

Patrol Operations
Criminal Investigations
Traffic Enforcement
Domestic Violence
Crime Prevention

Instructors are officers and personnel from the department who work every day in the job area they are presenting. Academy members can ask questions and express concerns directly to the individuals responsible for enforcement.

Optional academy activities outside the classroom include a tour of the Dispatch Center and a ride-along with a patrol officer.

Who should attend the academy?

Community members age 18 or older who wish to learn more about their police department. Preference is given to those who work or attend classes at the university.

How do I apply?

Click here for an application.  [PDF]

Or for an application and/or information, contact Crime Prevention at 206.543.9338 or email uwpolice@u.washington.edu.

Class size is limited to 15-20 community members. One month prior to the start of the next class you will be notified by mail of your acceptance into the class or you will be put on a waiting list for a future class.