Frequently Asked Questions - Niagara University

Additionally, candidates must take and successfully complete a written examination, a physical fitness
examination and a medical examination that may include drug screening. Further, before being
appointed as a police officer, a person may be required to submit to a psychological examination and a
background investigation. A person with a criminal conviction or with a felony conviction may be
disqualified from employment.
19. Can this training be used to satisfy basic police training requirements in other states?
(from DCJS web site www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us)
The decision to accept basic training completed in other states to satisfy basic police training
requirements is made pursuant to the rules established by the state where a person is seeking
appointment as a police officer, and the law enforcement agency considering that candidate.
20. Is a police department or sheriff's office required to use this training?
(from DCJS web site www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us)
No. Pre‐employment training is an alternative to the conventional basic police training model in New
York State. Law enforcement administrators decide what method of basic training best suites their
individual needs.
21. After a student completes this course and is appointed as a police officer, what further
training is required?
(from DCJS web site www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us)
Within one year of appointment, a police officer must successfully complete the Basic Course for Police
Officers. After being appointed by a law enforcement agency, a sworn officer who has completed the
Pre‐Employment Police Basic Training Course must complete the post appointment component of the
training, which includes at a minimum law enforcement skills and supervised field training. Law
enforcement agencies and academies may add topics and increase the length of post appointment
training to meet their individual needs.
22. Are there any age restrictions for this program?
There are no minimum or maximum age requirements for students.
However, you should note that according to section 58 of the Civil Service Law, a candidate seeking
permanent appointment to a police officer title must be twenty (20) years of age as of the date of
appointment and not more than thirty‐five (35) years of age as of the date when the applicant takes the
written examination.
You must be 20 years old by time you graduate as a pre‐employment student. It is your responsibility to
check with the hiring agency.
23. What are the objectives for the NCLEA and Niagara University?
1. Offer the Niagara Country Law Enforcement Academy (NCLEA) that adheres to all Division of
Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) regulations to properly train Police and Sheriff officers.
2. Partner with the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office and Niagara Falls Police Department to provide
approved instruction for sworn recruits and pre‐employment recruits.
3. Generate educational opportunities to support Niagara University and future Law Enforcement
Academy operations.
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