This course provides the foundational knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required of entry-level Arizona peace officers. Students examine the structure and functions of the criminal justice system, the history and role of law enforcement, ethics and professionalism, cultural awareness, and Arizona criminal law. The course also introduces first aid, firearms safety and operation, officer safety principles, and foundational defensive tactics. Through classroom instruction, practical exercises, and scenario-based learning, students develop the competencies necessary for successful progression through the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST) Basic Training Academy.
Students must have a high school diploma or GED, be at least 21 years of age upon completion of the Academy, have no felony convictions, be a U.S. citizen, possess a valid driver’s license, pass a physical requirement test, a written evaluation, an oral board review, a background investigation, a medical evaluation, and a polygraph exam. Students may not have a history of AZ POST or agency disqualifiers and must meet any additional requirements per AZ POST. Course fees may be required.
Prerequisites
Admission to Gila Community College’s Law Enforcement Training Academy.
1. Abide by academy rules, expectations, and AZPOST requirements.
2. Apply ethical principles and professional standards to law enforcement decision-making.
3. Identify effective supervisory and management principles used within law enforcement organizations.
4. Describe the evolution of policing and its impact on modern law enforcement practices.
5. Demonstrate cultural competence and professionalism when serving diverse communities.
6. Recognize stress responses and employ strategies that support officer wellness and resilience.
7. Develop and maintain a schedule, support system, proper nutrition, and healthy sleep habits to promote overall wellness.
8. Demonstrate officer-survival practices that reduce risk and enhance personal safety.
9. Maintain situational awareness and make sound tactical decisions during law enforcement encounters.
10. Apply force consistent with Arizona law, departmental policy, and constitutional standards.
11. Utilize contact-cover principles to improve officer safety during citizen encounters.
12. Explain the functions, authority, jurisdiction, and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies.
13. Explain the roles and relationships of law enforcement, the courts, and corrections within the criminal justice system.
14. Utilize effective verbal, written, and radio communication during law enforcement operations.
15. Protect and enforce victims' rights as required by Arizona law.
16. Apply community-oriented policing principles to strengthen public trust and community partnerships.
17. Utilize systematic problem-solving methods to address community concerns and crime-related issues.
18. Obtain relevant information through lawful and effective interviewing techniques.
19. Conduct lawful interviews and interrogations while protecting constitutional rights.
20. Explain constitutional protections and their application to law enforcement actions.
21. Apply basic criminal law concepts, terminology, and classifications to legal scenarios.
22. Apply constitutional requirements governing searches, seizures, and warrant exceptions.
23. Explain lawful arrest authority, procedures, and officer responsibilities.
24. Identify offense elements and accurately apply Arizona criminal statutes during criminal investigations.
25. Demonstrate effective communication and problem-solving skills.
26. Recognize violations of orders of protection and determine appropriate enforcement actions.
27. Demonstrate officer-survival practices that reduce risk and enhance personal safety.
28. Assess injured persons and provide appropriate emergency medical care.
29. Perform CPR and emergency interventions for life-threatening medical conditions.
30. Demonstrate safe handling, operation, and qualification with duty firearms.
31. Apply judgment and de-escalation principles when determining the appropriate level of force.
32. Demonstrate accurate shooting fundamentals consistent with qualification standards.
33. Prepare accurate, complete, and objective law enforcement reports.
34. Demonstrate appropriate mental and physical conditioning through structured exercise and classroom education.
35. Demonstrate safe and effective patrol techniques in routine and emergency situations.
36. Demonstrate competency in a variety of scenario-based training exercises.