Training & Hiring Practices
One of the ways we protect your safety is by making sure that each officer on the University of Chicago Police force is carefully chosen and extensively trained.
Hiring Practices
The University Police Department (UCPD) hires officers in accordance with University
hiring policies. We look for officers with a friendly demeanor, good communication skills,
and an understanding of the community. Applicants are given a written examination, a
psychological screening, and a drug screening. Applications are reviewed by a three-person
board of members of the UCPD.
Training Practices
UCPD officers get more extensive training than Chicago Police officers do.
- First, recruits complete 8 to 10 weeks of training at the UCPD to learn about working with students, faculty, staff, and the community. They also learn about the service orientation of the department and about special University police activities, such as the umbrella coverage service.
- Next, recruits undergo 36 weeks of training at the Chicago Police Academy. The training is consistent with the requirements of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. Once the training is completed, the officers must pass a certification examination administered by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board.
