Criminal Justice-Law Enforcement 720 Academy

Admissions Requirements

• Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
• Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
• Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.

Additional Requirements

• High School or GED/HSED Transcript is required.
• For an admission packet for the 720-hour Law Enforcement Academy, please contact the Sparta Public Safety Training Center by phone at 608-789-4747 or by email at sparta@westerntc.edu.

The following requirements must be met by students enrolling in preparatory law enforcement officer training:

• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Possess a general educational development diploma or be a high school graduate.
• Possess either a two‐year associate degree from a Wisconsin technical college system district or its accredited equivalent from another state or a minimum of 40‐accredited credits (semester credits) or 90‐accredited quarter credits.
• Possess a valid Wisconsin driver’s license or other such valid operator’s permit recognized by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation as authorizing operation of a motor vehicle in Wisconsin.
• Must not have been convicted of any federal felony or of any offense which if committed in Wisconsin could be punished as a felony unless the applicant has been granted an absolute and unconditional pardon.
• Must not have been convicted of any misdemeanor crime of domestic violence unless the applicant has been granted an absolute and unconditional pardon.
• Be citizens of the United States.
• Undergo a medical assessment by a Wisconsin licensed physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner to verify that they can meet the physical standards required of a law enforcement officer.
• Complete a satisfactory oral interview with a panel of law enforcement executives or with teaching or counseling staff affiliated with the training school to determine suitability for law enforcement employment and to assess applicant demeanor, background and ability to communicate.

Cost for the 720 Academy

The cost for the 720 Law Enforcement Academy is $5,000. This is based upon an estimated $3,700 tuition costs and an additional estimated $1,300 for law enforcement skills evaluation fees.

Career Opportunities

Police Officer

Deputy Sheriff

Jailer

Security Officer

Law Enforcement Officer

State Patrol Officer

Program Outcomes

• Think critically
• Manage emergencies
• Communicate effectively
• Demonstrate professionalism
• Conduct investigations
• Interact with others
• Demonstrate tactical skills \[applies to Certification Track only\]

Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025

Software & Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

• Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
• Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
• Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

• Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
• Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
• Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

• Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
• The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

• Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.