Course Description

The six-month Basic Peace Officer Certification Program prepares prospective peace officers through a mandated Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) course curriculum.

At the completion of the program, cadets will be able to demonstrate the role and function of a Texas Peace Officer and identify, analyze, and resolve law enforcement issues, problems, and concerns. In addition, successful cadets will receive an endorsement as an eligible candidate for the Texas Peace Officer Licensing exam. Texas Southmost College is certified by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement as a Police Training Academy.

Cadets who complete the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement State exam are eligible to work throughout Cameron County and the State of Texas. The Criminal Justice Institute has more than 21 hiring partners within Cameron County and the surrounding areas.

The Basic Police Officer Certification Course covers 752 hours of instruction mandated by the State of Texas. The training includes academics, fitness, practical application (hands-on), and reality-based training.

Course Information

• Age 20½ at the start of the police academy
• High school diploma/transcripts or GED
• College readiness assessment (TABE/TSI)
• Birth Certificate (U.S. citizen)
• Driver’s License
• Exemplary criminal background and motor vehicle record
• Approved medical and psychological assessments
• Recent high school graduates may enter the program at the age of 18 if they have completed 24 SCH of an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice program.

Course Information

• Program Cost: $4,500
• Dates:
  • January – June (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
  • July – December (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
  • January – December (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)

Upon completion of the program, students will have the opportunity to:

• Receive legal training from Cameron County District Attorneys
• Receive mandated certifications from local, state, and federal agencies
• Receive TSC Certificate of Completion
• Receive Occupational Skills Award. OSAs emphasize practical, hands-on training aligned with industry standards to ensure relevance and value in the job market.
• Receive preparatory training to complete the TCOLE Peace Officer exam

Peace Officer Program Requirements

AGF Personal History Statement

Authorization to Release Information

Texas DPS Driving Records