Training

As an organization, our values are rooted in our belief that integrity is needed in every interaction we have, and that each one of us represents the entire department.

In support of our values each Yale Police Officer receives Basic Recruit Training in excess of 818 hours followed by 12 weeks of supervised Field Training under the supervision of specially trained Field Training Officers. All Yale University Police Officers must maintain their certification throughout their careers and receive additional training through in-service training programs sponsored by the department or other local, state, or federal agencies.

Additionally, Yale police officers are committed to proactive training to stay informed on best practices and community engagement.

The Yale Police Department has added programs to enhance mandatory implicit-bias and de-escalation training for officers. These include role-playing exercises that garner an understanding of all perspectives in any given police interaction.

Yale Police Officer Training

Basic Qualification of Officers

• 21 years of age and possess a high school diploma or GED.
• U.S. Citizenship and a valid Connecticut driver’s license.
• Pass a written, oral and physical agility test.
• Comprehensive background, polygraph, and psychological test.
• Mature and of good character.
• Approved for appointment by the New Haven Board of Police Commissioners.

Initial Officer Training

• Officers receive extensive training and mentoring before earning their initial State of Connecticut Certificate.
• Basic Academy: The Connecticut State Police Officer Standards and Training Council (POST) is mandated by statute to provide basic training for all law enforcement officers in Connecticut.  Basic Academy training consists of over 871 hours of training designed to develop basic skills in all the disciplines needed for performing patrol work. Training involves classroom, skills, and scenario-based training.
• Field Training Program: A minimum 12-week program that begins after academy graduation. Officers train in a variety of patrol functions and receive daily evaluations, progressing to demonstrate competency in standardized tasks. Field Training consists of direct one on one training/coaching with a specially trained veteran officer.

Ongoing Sworn Officer Training

• The Yale Police operates a bi-annual in-service training for sworn personnel to refresh their skills and train on the latest law enforcement tactics, techniques, and strategies.
• The Training Division also offers additional courses related to specialized skills such as community outreach and engagement, bicycles, active shooter.
• In addition to mandatory implicit-bias and de-escalation training for officers. These include role-playing exercises that garner an understanding of all perspectives in any given police interaction.
• Yale Police training exceeds the state and national requirements.
• Once certified, each sworn member must be recertified every three years.