Citizens Academy
Ever wonder what police do? Have you seen the inside of a police station? Get these and more questions answered by attending the Tustin Police Department Citizens Academy.
Citizens Academy
The Citizens Academy is coordinated by the City Operations Division. Twice a year, the fourteen-week academy introduces citizens to policing tactics and to the officers and other staff members of the Department. The Academy is held at the Police Department on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Connecting Police & Community
The Citizens Academy provides individuals who live or work in the City an opportunity to be more involved in their community and gain a better understanding between citizens and police through education. The academy also provides our officers and staff with an opportunity to get to know our residents so that we can remain responsive to the needs and attitudes of the community.
Curriculum & Lectures
The curriculum program provides graduates with an understanding of the issues facing law enforcement and how the police approach various problems with a "mini" police academy format. The curriculum and lectures include, but are not limited to:
- Communications and Dispatch
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Gangs and Graffiti
- Investigations
- K-9 Program
- Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT)
- Traffic Unit
- Use of Force
- and more!
Participant Requirements
Potential candidates for the Citizens Academy must fill out an application! Applications are available at the front counter of the Police Department and at the bottom of this page. Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Live or work in Tustin, or surrounding areas
- No prior felony convictions
- No serious misdemeanor arrests within one year of application
Limited Space & Commitment
Due to the limited space in each academy class, participants must be able to commit to attending each week within the 16-week program. Students cannot select certain classes in the program to attend. In addition, due to the quick pace of the classes, they will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. each night.
Selection Process
Citizens Academy participants are selected by the academy staff after review of the applications, a routine records check, and a brief interview. A waiting list is often established if the academy is full.
More Information
Applications can either be submitted in person at the PD front lobby or emailed to our Community Relations Unit.