Rural Police Training Academy
Since 1985, the RPTA has accepted recruits from the entire area of Western New York. The RPTA offers a yearly basic course for police and pre-employment recruits, which lasts from early April to the following early March, with classes on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings (6:30 pm-10:30 pm) and Saturdays from 8:00 am-5:00 pm as well as a number of Mondays throughout the year. Graduation follows late January.
In addition, the RPTA offers various police in-service courses throughout the year, many of which are in cooperation with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. Physical agility testing is required for enrollment and will be scheduled in the weeks prior to the start of the Academy.
Enrollment Methods
Sworn Officer
- Hired prior to enrollment in the RPTA, registered as a Police Officer with DCJS in Albany
- Suggested ages are 21-35, but check with your County Civil Service Office for details
- Full or Part Time Officers accepted, some departments accept Part Time Officers who are over 35 years of age
- Many Officers start as Part Time in a smaller Department and then work into Full Time status either there or with another larger Department
Pre-Employment Option
- Must be at least 19 to enroll, no maximum age limit
- No felony convictions
- If you are looking to work in law enforcement, no criminal convictions
- Background Investigation required
- Physically able to participate in all fitness and defensive tactics training
College Credit Union
RPTA offers recruits an opportunity to earn college credits through the Academy, at no additional cost. Sworn recruits are eligible to earn up to 22 college credits, while pre-employment recruits are eligible to earn up to 16 credits primarily in Criminal Justice.
No additional fees are required, but full tuition payment is required prior to the start of the academy. Enrollment in the college credit option must be completed with the academy application. Recruits selecting the College Credit Option may, if applicable, apply for TAP, PELL or student loans. Please NOTE: Full tuition payment must be made prior to the start of the academy. Deferments for anticipated State, Federal or loan funds are not permitted. For any financial aid questions, please call the Financial Aid office at 585-343-0055 ext 6480.
Veterans Benefits
The RPTA Basic Course for Police is a registered program providing veterans or entitled dependents, an opportunity to receive educational benefits. Application for benefits must be made to the College’s Financial Aid Office when applying to the academy.
Note: Tuition deferments for anticipated Veterans Benefits are not permitted.
Tuition and Costs
Tuition for the 2025-2026 academy is $6,000. A $600, non-refundable fee must accompany your academy application. Your balance of $5,400 must be paid in full by April 1, 2025. All recruits are responsible for uniforms and certain leather items at an approximate cost of $1,500. Sworn recruits in addition are responsible for leather items, firearm and ammunition at an approximate cost of $2,500.
Applications and Forms
Applications are now being emailed for Class #37 beginning in April 2025. If interested, please email RPTA Director Brooks at rpolice@drordi.com and ask that an application packet be sent to you for the 2025 Academy. Your email should include your name, phone number and preferred email. Seats are limited!
Please mail or return all forms to:
Genesee Community College
ATTN: BEST Center
One College Road
Batavia, NY 14020