The Criminal Justice Training Center / IUP Police Academy is a multifaceted training center offering several training courses related to the criminal justice system. The CJTC was established in 1975 and has certified thousands of police officers in Pennsylvania.
Learn more about the Criminal Justice Training Program, including course information and how to apply.
The center is certified by the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission to provide the Act 120 Basic Municipal Police Officers’ Training Program. Over 95 percent of graduates are hired as officers in cities, boroughs, townships, and municipalities in Pennsylvania.
As part of the College of Health and Human Services, the Criminal Justice Training Center offers 15 college credits for graduates of the Act 120 program. These free elective credits are available for transfer based on academic department approval.
Get started on your application for the Act 120: Municipal Police Academy.
Any questions? Feel free to email dkarcher@iup.edu or call 724-357-6943.
The CJTC offers Act 120: Municipal Police Academy certification programs at two locations: the IUP main campus and the CNX Facility in Canonsburg, Washington County.
The part-time academy at CNX Southpointe Campus operates one session each year. Class will begin in May of each year. Applications will be accepted beginning in January of each year up until two weeks prior to the academy start date. Entrance testing takes place weekly after an application is submitted and a physical is completed. If interested, either log on to the IUP Criminal Justice Training Center website and request an application or contact Academy Director Marcia Cole at 724-357-3987 or mcole@iup.edu or CNX Program Coordinator Andrew Volchko at avolchko@iup.edu for more information.
With a mix of full- and part-time options, you can get your certification when it fits your schedule. Check the Current Academy Schedules to see when the program is offered at each location.
From mandatory trainings for current Pennsylvania police officers to voluntary training and specialized training programs, the CJTC offers a number of options. Visit Act 180: Mandatory In-Service and Police Pre-Service and In-Service Training Programs for course offerings and dates.
Learn how you can request an application for the Act 120 training.
Accreditation Public Comment PortalThe purpose of this public comment portal is to receive comments regarding an agency's compliance with CALEA standards, engagement in the service community, delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status. These comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. The overall intent of the accreditation process is to provide the participating agency with information to support continuous improvement, as well as foster the pursuit of professional excellence.