Alternate Route

Only one police recruit class will be held each year.

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at the Raritan Valley Community College

A L T E R N A T E R O U T E

What does Police Basic Training involve?

Basic training is approximately 24 weeks long. There are over 120 subjects that are taught. Training can be best described as a blend of military and college training. The environment is very challenging and requires a commitment to excellence.

How do I apply?

Classes begin in December of each year. The Academy will advertise in the area newspapers during the months of February and August announcing an orientation whereby a program overview will be presented. Applications will be made available at that time. All alternate route inquiries should be made to the Academy Central Administration number
908-526-1200 ext. 8480. Or you may email the Alternate Route Coordinator DSG Lisa Gilmurray at lgilmurr@raritanval.edu

What is the Alternate Route Program?

This is a program where you can go to the Police Academy on your own without being hired and sent by a police department. This would be similar to spending a semester at a college or university.

Other Requirements

The trainee must pass:

- physical fitness test

- written test

- oral interview

- and pass a comprehensive background check

What are the requirements?

In order to apply for the Program you must:

• Must be a citizen of the United States;

• Be sound in body and of good health sufficient to satisfy the Board of Trustees of the Police and Fireman’s Retirement System of New Jersey as to his/her eligibility for membership in the retirement system;

• Be able to read, write and speak the English language well and intelligently;

• Be of good moral character, and has not been convicted of any criminal offense involving moral turpitude;

• Be a resident of Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset or Warren County.

• Have 60 college credits; or two years of full time active duty military service; or a combination of 1 year college (30 credits from a college or university recognized by RVCC) and 1 year active military service.

• Must be at least 18 years of age and not over 35 at the completion of the academy program

How much does the
Program cost?

The total cost for the program is approximately $3,800. This includes:

• Registration fee: $50 (covers written and physical fitness test)

• Processing fee: $300 (due at completion of training)

• Medical, Stress & Psychological exams: $785

• Insurance (liability/health)

• Uniform, Equipment & Ammunition: $2,400

• Tuition: $1,350 (due at completion of training)

• Scholarships available based on financial need. (Scholarship information will be provided during orientation meeting)