CNM Law Enforcement Academy Certificate of Completion

School of Health, Wellness & Public Safety (HWPS)

The CNM Law Enforcement Academy will provide the basic police officer academy as a satellite academy under the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. Students who successfully complete the academy will earn a Certificate of Completion for 32 academic credits. These courses meet the requirements for licensure by the state of New Mexico as a law enforcement officer. In addition, these courses will apply toward the Associates of Applied Science in Criminal Justice.

Educational Option Information

• This educational option is an: Certificate of Completion
• This educational option can be completed: Full-time
• This educational option is designed for: Transfer into CNM’s Criminal Justice, Associate of Applied Science
• This educational option can be started: Spring or Fall
• Primary course location: CNM Westside Campus

Special Requirements

Applicants are mandated by New Mexico State Administrative Code to pass rigorous entrance standards. These include but are not limited to a written examination(s), physical assessment, background investigation, selection interviews, psychological testing, medical examination, drug screening and credit checks. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid driver’s license and be a US citizen.

Felony Conviction

Individuals with felony convictions are not eligible for this certification, per New Mexico Administrative Code.

Licensing

Upon successful completion of the academy, students will sit for the Law Enforcement Officer Certification Exam (LEOCE) administered by the State of New Mexico Department of Public Safety.

Additional Supplies

Additional tools, equipment and supplies will be required for individual courses during the program.

Educational Opportunities

This certificate is embedded in CNM’s Criminal Justice, Associate of Applied Science curriculum allowing students to complete this certificate and continue onto their associate’s degree. Many of the courses in this degree are transferable and some may be applied to two and four-year degree programs. CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities in New Mexico and elsewhere.

Career Opportunities

All regional law enforcement agencies are actively recruiting for cadets and frequently utilize CNM partnerships to facilitate the hiring of CNM students.

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that in 2017 there were 662,390 police officer and sheriff’s deputy jobs in the United States. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a 7% growth in the employment of police officers and sheriff’s deputies from 2016-2026. Police officers and sheriff’s deputies are traditionally employed by the local, state and federal governments.