The vision statement of the Oklahoma City Police Department emphasizes in part, “to ensure Oklahoma City is one of the safest cities in the country through strong community relationships”. 

To achieve this vision, one educational platform the Police Department promotes to engage with the community and foster strong relationships is the Community Police Academy (CPA).

The academy is instructed by actual members of the Police Department, who are subject matter experts from a wide variety of law enforcement disciplines and assignments.

Classes meet once a week, for 10 consecutive weeks, usually Tuesday afternoons, from 1 - 4 p.m., at the Police Training Center. 

Classroom instruction combined with hands-on demonstrations provides an exciting and fun way to learn about the department and how the community can partner with us to achieve our mission.

Subject areas:

  • Laws of arrest
  • Search and seizure
  • Officer safety techniques
  • How meth labs are handled
  • How the CITCO unit intercepts drug trafficking on highways
  • How fatality collisions are investigated
  • Tactical team and bomb squad training exercises

Participants will also have a chance to tour department facilities and engage in discussions with a variety of leaders throughout the department.

Applicants to the CPA are screened through a criminal background check before being accepted into a session. The Training Center continually accepts applications and screens applicants. Successful applicants are notified well in advance of the upcoming session.

How long is the Academy?

The CPA is 10 weeks. Two academy classes are scheduled each year.

When does it meet?

The CPA meets every Tuesday, from 1 – 4 p.m. Classes are usually three hours long.

Will I be qualified to perform law enforcement services after attending the CPA?

No. The CPA exists solely to enhance community relations and provide a general understanding of the criminal justice system.

Click here if you're interested in a career with the Oklahoma City Police Department.

Does the CPA cost anything to attend?

No. All materials are provided free to attendees.

Are there any physical fitness requirements or mandatory activities?

While there are no physical fitness requirements or mandatory physical activities, a commitment to consistently attend each evening session is strongly encouraged.

Download an application

How do I apply?

Download the application and deliver it in person, by mail, or fax to:

Oklahoma City Police Department
Police Training Center
800 N Portland Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK 73107
(405) 297-1110
TrainingAdministrativeUnit@okc.gov