Rural Police Training Academy - Genesee Community College

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS UNTIL APRIL 1ST, 2026!

Since 1985, the RPTA has accepted recruits from the entire area of Western New York. The Rural Police Training Academy at Genesee Community College prepares recruits for successful careers in law enforcement through rigorous, hands-on training grounded in real-world policing. Designed to meet New York State municipal police training standards, the Academy emphasizes physical fitness, firearms proficiency, defensive tactics, legal instruction, and community-oriented policing. Recruits are trained by experienced law enforcement professionals in a supportive, disciplined environment that reflects the unique needs of rural and small-community agencies. Graduates leave fully prepared to serve, protect, and make a positive impact in the communities they represent.

Questions about RPTA? Email us at bestcenter@genesee.edu or call 585-345-6868.

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

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 585-345-6900.

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 2026-2027 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, 2026. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m interested in the RPTA and the Academy, what do I do first?

The first step is to determine how you will pay the $6,000 tuition for the Academy. If you are interested in seeking financial assistance, please contact Genesee Community College’s Financial Aid Office to learn what funding options may be available to you.

Financial Aid Office: 585-345-6900

How long does the Pre-Employment Certification last?

You have up to two years from graduation to secure a job as a Sworn Officer.

What is the difference between the sworn officers and pre-employment program?

Sworn recruits take part in Firearms Training, Behavioral Observation & Suspicious Activity Recognition (BOSAR), Hard Baton and Field training, while pre-employment recruits do not.

How do I get the rest of the training once I am hired from Pre to Sworn?

As a pre graduate, once you are hired in the two year period, you then return to the nearest Academy and take the four remaining courses listed in Question #3.

Are there Physical Fitness standards I have to meet?

Yes, the physical fitness standards are provided in the application packet. You need to enter the course at the 40th percentile and exit (graduate) at the 50th percentile. It is imperative that you are prepared for the pre-test and we suggest that you practice, exercise and train months in advance of the actual test so that you are successful. At the completion of the course, you must meet the 50th percentile standards to successfully graduate from the Academy.

What do I need as far as Uniforms/Equipment?

You will be given a supply list once you are accepted so that you can purchase the proper uniform and equipment. All recruits wear gray fatigues, and the Academy operates in a para-military style.

Are all classes held at GCC?

Most all classroom activities are held at the Main Campus at GCC Batavia, and others at various locations such as Letchworth Central School, Firearms Range in Leicester, NY and other locations in Geneseo and Avon as needed.

What if I have other questions?

If you have any questions regarding the Rural Police Training Academy or the application process, please contact Academy Director, Douglas Brooks at rpolice@genesee.edu.

Applications and Forms

Applications are now being accepted for Class #38 beginning in April 2026! If interested, please email RPTA Director Brooks at rpolice@genesee.edu and ask that an application packet be sent to you for the 2026 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