University Police Officer Job Qualifications
The Job
University Police Officers are responsible for the detection and prevention of crime and enforcement of state and local laws. They are also responsible for the enforcement of rules and regulations in a diverse educational environment throughout twenty-eight SUNY campuses. University Police Officers adhere to high standards of personal and professional ethics.
University Police Officers are part of the educational process. They speak on topics such as sexual assault, drug awareness, crime prevention, and traffic safety. They develop and maintain positive relationships with students and employees to ensure the safety and cooperation of the campus community.
Whatever the assignment, wherever the opportunity, they perform their duties consistently with the educational mission of the campuses they serve.
The Requirements
University Police Officers must meet the highest standards in New York State, as well as in the country, for law enforcement officers.
To become a University Police Officer, a person must:
- Be at least 21 years of age;
- Be a United States citizen;
- Be a New York State resident;
- Completed 60 hours of college credits (two years of active military service with an honorable discharge may be substituted for 30 of the 60 hours);
- Possess a valid New York State drivers license;
- Pass a written Civil Service exam and be reachable on their list for canvassing;
- Pass a medical examination;
- Have a binocular acuity of 20/30 corrected or no less than 20/100 uncorrected;
- Pass a physical agility test (includes but not limited to: sit-ups, push-ups, 1.5 mile run);
- Pass a psychological evaluation;
- Pass an extensive background investigation;
- Complete a Basic School for Police Officers;
- Complete a probationary period.
The Training
Upon successful completion of the selection process, recruits begin training at a Basic School for Police Officers. Recruits will receive training in such areas as:
- Criminal Procedure Law
- Penal Law
- Report Writing
- Investigation Procedures
- Vehicle & Traffic Law
- Accident Investigation
- Emergency Medical Services
- Emergency Vehicle Operations
- Communications
- Firearms Training
- Community Relations
- Crime Prevention
- Physical Fitness/Wellness
- Defensive Tactics
- Supervised Field Training
- Police Functions
Applying for Examination
Dates and applications for entrance examinations can be obtained from your nearest New York State Employment Office. Information is also available on the internet at Civil Service. Particular questions regarding your qualifications can be directed to the NYS Department of Civil Service, Alfred E. Smith State Office Building, Albany, NY 12239 or by telephone at (877) 697-5627.
You may also access recruitment information on the NYS University Police Facebook page.