How To Become A Police Officer - Training And Education Questions

You want to be a Police Officer, Court Officer, or Special Constable, but you're not sure what to take in school. Something that would assist you not just during your career in Law Enforcement, but ultimately what will help you get your foot in the door and increase your chances of being hired. Something that would impress recruiters and help push you through the process.
There's certainly plenty to choose from - Police Foundations, Justice Studies, Forensic Sciences, and many other courses related to Law Enforcement and Policing, and the Criminal Justice System.
As stated in previous videos, post-secondary education isn't a requirement, however, I don't know anyone who has been hired with a high-school diploma, who also hasn't done anything to better themselves before applying. Taking the opportunity to grow and expand your knowledge through additional schooling or opportunities at work.
I didn't attend College or University, I completed a four year carpentry apprenticeship which showed recruiters that I could stick to something with an end goal.
Some might not like what I have to say in this video, but that doesn't change the fact that the scenario I mentioned has happened to thousands of individuals who had their hearts set on a career in Law Enforcement, yet were not successful.
The training and experience you receive from other professions could be extremely useful in your career in law enforcement. I've worked with individuals who came from the banking and financial sector who ultimately ended up investigating frauds. Their investigative skills were enhanced by their knowledge of the field.
According to a recent stat, the average person will change carers 5-7 times during their working life. If Policing is your second, or even third career, I'd love to know what you think.
The thumbnail is a screenshot from a video of a training event at Durham College in Oshawa, Ontario.
Thanks for stopping by. I read all the comments and respond when it's appropriate so please feel free to share your thoughts.
If you find my page interesting, please consider subscribing. If I don't educate, I at least hope to entertain!

[@themaster3132]

wanting to be a cop was cool when i was a kid but then i realized the amount of paperwork involved

[@OfficerArsenault]

For sure. It’s easier now than it used to be though, at least in larger municipalities.

[@transportationland6395]

Appreciate you Officer Arsenault for clarifying some misconceptions, such as having to take police foundations when you don't even have to go to post secondary, just highschool. Helps understanding what I need to set my self up to in order to better myself. As a high-school student myself, this video made me understand more in-depth of what skills I will need for policing, seems like a good mix of academic and physicality.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for the comment 🙏🏼

[@user-ee1lj3dc2x]

Always find your videos interesting and informative. Never have trouble getting to the end. 👍

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for that, I appreciate it 🙏🏼

[@leighbuchan7186]

Great info Randy! A wealth of real life experience is so important. Having another successful career before applying to be a police officer is a bonus to recruiters!

[@OfficerArsenault]

For sure, thank you for the input.

[@wendigo1919]

Always enjoy your videos, Randy. Spreading great information as always.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you.

[@jaisyjacob3]

Thank you 🙏 for the video, its very informative cause many a times, students after high school have no clue or where to go. It could even be like they want to be in this field but not very sure. And choosing friends or people you hang around with, is huge. Thank you once again 🙏🙌

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you as well!

[@dailyshenanigans4883]

The notion that there is no such thing as a "good cop" is a compelling one, as it raises important questions about accountability and the integrity of law enforcement. The argument that the good cops would turn in the bad ones if they existed is a valid one, but unfortunately, this does not happen consistently. All cops, regardless of their individual actions, are ultimately part of the thin blue-line gang, reinforcing a system where abuse of power and misconduct can go unnoticed or unchecked. There are several KZbin channels dedicated to exposing corrupt cops and bringing attention to instances of abuse of power. These channels play a crucial role in shedding light on systemic issues within law enforcement and raising awareness among the general public. By documenting cases of misconduct, these channels help to hold the authorities accountable and ensure that justice is served. It is crucial for citizens to stay informed and knowledgeable about the ongoing issues within law enforcement. By searching these KZbin channels, individuals can gain access to valuable resources and gain a deeper understanding of the tyranny that is taking place in this country. By sharing these channels with others, we can create a more informed and aware society. In conclusion, the existence of corrupt cops highlights the need for systemic reform within law enforcement. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed and educated about these issues, and the list of KZbin channels provided can serve as a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the situation. Take a screenshot of this list of KZbin channels, and visit each and every one of them so you'll be better educated. 1. Audit Archive 2. The Civil Rights Lawyer 3. Shields of Shame 4. US - Corrupt Cops 5. Dirty Cops 6. Brutal cops

[@lulululu13]

If people met you or knew you I'm sure they'd want to be a cop. You set a good example people need a person like yourself. You're so put together with compassion and you are so humble very outspoken and intellectual. Your humility needs to rub off on most people, I hope it will and does.

[@OfficerArsenault]

I appreciate you saying that, very kind!

[@Tomogouchi]

Been following you for awhile now always entertaining or informative like this one or humourus. I'm just about to apply with SSPS see you out there!

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good luck to you!

[@vancetang2288]

Thank you Officer Arsenault. I certainly want to be a Toronto Municipal Police officer after my Masters. Some times I feel a bottomless end. So again, thank you for your insight 🎉😊❤

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for the input and I hope it works out for you 🙏🏼

[@andreaCoral78]

That is great information to have... You are clearly well informed on these topics... Thanks for sharing your opinion... I think it builds character doing different things in life... Sometimes we might not even realize trying something new is the best thing that could ever happen to us... Fear holds a lot of people back sometimes I think...👏✌️

[@OfficerArsenault]

I wholeheartedly agree. Thank you for the input.

[@rominaoliverio3541]

Excellent advice for anyone considering law enforcement.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you.

[@Nono_G42075]

Very true

[@VoyTe]

I missed my train to become a police officer. I respect what you guys do and thank you for your service. I am very happy to be on the right side of the law and respect the law and that is perfect for me. Thank you

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for the input 🙏🏼

[@VoyTe]

@OfficerArsenault my pleasure, Sir. 🙏

[@robloxforlife955]

wait you didn’t become a cop bc you missed the train did you not tryout again?

[@jaspreetsekhon6241]

Thank you for the very informative video. Keep it up for spreading knowledge regarding policing. Sincerely Thanks

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@monsieurledirecteur1735]

Hello! Thank you for this fascinating video. I was a police officer for 4 years and a specialized juvenile justice detective for 3 years in Mexico. I'm also a lawyer with a master's degree in criminal law in Mexico. My dream is to become a police officer in Canada, so I went there to obtain a college diploma in Quebec, which later granted me permanent residency. While living in Montreal, I worked as a supervisory patrol officer for a private security company, which was both fun and interesting. However, I received a job offer in Mexico to become the deputy director of the national anti-homicide commission, so I decided to take it and return to my home country. Nevertheless, the dream of being a Canadian police officer still lingers in my mind. I was pleased to hear you mention that they accept individuals in their 50s, as I am currently 38 years old. I am still a permanent resident in Canada, and I have a couple of years left to return without losing that status and fulfill my dream. Do you think it would be possible to apply from abroad (with a valid permanent resident status)? Thank you very much, and may this excellent content continue!

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes you can absolutely apply that way, and I appreciate all your input. Sounds like you’ve had an interesting life nonetheless!

[@COLDLAKER]

I support you as a hybrid cop!! I'm your greatest fan!!

[@OfficerArsenault]

You’re too kind ☺️

[@Nono_G42075]

This is so great for my project too see what I have to prepare for even if it doesn’t work out for a while n I would love to be a state pd I going to police academy but if it doesn’t work this is something great to look back on n remember this great advice thank you

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you

[@pratai04]

Currently in University for Criminology, my goal is to join TPS after im finished as it is where I grew up. Thanks for the video!

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good luck to you!

[@Garry-ux3wf]

I Have always wanted to be a cop this will help me a lot thank you

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good luck to you!

[@DFarmer88]

Thanks for the video information, I am going to share your video with my godsons who are joining the police force Have a good day, stay warm and stay safe officer.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you so much! I hope they find it informative 🙏🏼

[@DFarmer88]

@@OfficerArsenaultthey do Randy, thanks! 🙏🏼

[@Editbyparth]

I found this video after 2 months and it s very important for me

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thanks, I hope you get something from it 👍🏼

[@MaryLynnMetras]

Senior now but back when I was working OR RN went 1st Citzens Police Course Many in the course wanted to be an Officer I was thinking Auxillary but ended up staying in Nursing but I do recommend this opportunity if in your area Excellent inside in to what goes on in policing Thx

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for the input.

[@amelakyawekal9321]

you did a good job brother .

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you!

[@Need4steve1222]

This is great advice I wish I’d have received earlier.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you.

[@IanDermott-yb3hv]

Oh how I wished I could become a police officer I am 64 so back in the early 80s I wore glasses and I could only be 20-30 so I didn't have the eyes for it I even got caught wearing contact lenses. Great job you are doing

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for the comment and input, I hope you had a fulfilling career as well 🙏🏼

[@IanDermott-yb3hv]

@@OfficerArsenault absolutely no complaints

[@briang2034]

Great video, thank you, i like you to help me, im currently in Florida.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good luck to you.

[@aryansandhu3768]

The Best Advice I have got from you is to have a plan B .

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you.

[@Zay.223]

As a young man myself, ive always wanted to be a police officer and i have recently applied too the local department, i may be young but i think there is alot of people my age(24) who also have experienced life full force, meaning experienced loss, learning family dynamics, interpersonal skills ect. I hope my age doesn’t affect my application🫣

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good luck to you! Let me know how it works out 🙏🏼

[@andyfeng9469]

Have you ever seen someone from the military working as a cop even though they didn't go to college after high school? I don't have any college education myself. I went straight into the army reserves after high school. But my ultimate goal is to become a cop. Right now, I'm in the reserves as an infantry soldier. I don't have a job besides that, and I mostly just go on training exercises with my unit on the weekends.

[@erenn_.46]

Hi. What do I need to do to join army. Like is there anything like training or any school?

[@andyfeng9469]

​@@erenn_.46 if you finish high school you'd be fine. depends on what trade you choose tho, I know some trades required you to have higher education but most trades you can get into with a high school education.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes I’ve seen that before 👍🏼

[@anthonymorales1499]

graduated high school and heading to trade school but I always seemed to want to be a police officer so Ima just go for it. I would regret it more if I don't and I'll always have my trade to fall back on, but I mostly want to peruse a Carrer as a police officer I'm 20 right now still finding my way but this might be something I'm more passionate about.

[@OfficerArsenault]

That’s great; good for you! Keep me updated.

[@Merngus]

I’m a security supervisor at a busy downtown area. I’ve been working security for almost 4-5 years now and almost 2 of them as supervisor. Note this is my first and only job I’ve ever had. Do you think I have enough experience? I’ve also graduated from police foundational 5-6 years ago.

[@OfficerArsenault]

I would certainly say so 👍🏼

[@corymahoney3081]

Hi Randall, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about changing professions to become a police officer. I am in my late thirties and have been in the electrical trade since 2006. I also started my own electrical company in roughly 10 years ago, which is still in business. I’m a code 1 electrician in NL which means I am at the highest level for my trade. I’ve accomplished a lot in my career but I still have this sense of un fulfillment, which is why I’m thinking about the change. I recently had a child and my line of work demands a lot of time focused on business and away from family. My question for you would be what the family/work life balance is like in most police departments, based on your experience.

[@OfficerArsenault]

To be honest, it’s bad at pretty much every police service across the country. The shoots are bad, stress. It’s had on families. Of course there are very good aspects, but it’s tough. In terms of being rewarding, I understand but I’ll use this as an example: I’m a licensed carpenter and have worked at many buildings in major cities. 25 years later I can still look at those buildings, it’s a true sense of accomplishment. In terms of Policing, with the revolving door system out there, many officers are just feeling very unfulfilled because it seems like no matter what they do, it doesn’t make a difference. They’re getting hurt and stressed over people who don’t care about them and they’re out the very next day. I know I’m being negative but trying to be very realistic. Good luck to you!

[@cloutanime]

I recently spoke to a Toronto cop who informed me of most of what you just said. I have an advanced diploma in business marketing and small part-time security experience. He told me to apply so I did last week but was told I did not meet the minimum licensing requirements. This is mainly related to having an OACP certificate. Can you confirm that this is required before I apply again?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Correct, it is a requirement, I don’t believe so with OPP though. Good luck to you!

[@cloutanime]

@@OfficerArsenault Thank you for responding and for the video. I'll be sure to update you on my progress.

[@behzad2798]

Could you make a video about which college and what program is good for starting a police officer

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes! His one kind of covers that though.

[@tuneunleashed]

I took Criminal Justice couple years ago and dropped out of it. What's the point of having it when most police institutions in Canada don't require it. I remember I went to an RCMP info session and the constable told us that after 6 months of the Police Academy we will be offered a Police Science Degree that's the main reason why I dropped out of college and I don't regret. Now at 24 I'm completely lost don't know what I want to do so I went into trucking hard to find someone to take you in for apprenticeships nowadays. I've tried for years...

[@OfficerArsenault]

I understand, it’s tough. But perhaps you’re more of an entrepreneur without knowing it yet? A lot of people who have a hard time figuring out who to work for are natural entrepreneurs.

[@trojanthebarber2688]

I pray I can become a police officer, I want to serve my community in a BIIIIIG way and I am having a hard time because of past financial mistakes and my current job not paying enough, which I’m hoping my agency still works with me on, but it’s so strict that you almost need to be a good boy your whole life at times it seems

[@OfficerArsenault]

I hope you become an officer one day ✌🏼

[@anshji4376]

I am trying to apply for Special Constable or/ PEO, but there is no option to apply. Could you please let me know when are they going to hire this year?

[@OfficerArsenault]

I’m not too sure unfortunately but I’d be very surprised if they didn’t for that position.

[@startechgaming5579]

Is there any civilian hiring in ontario for police other than being officers and where i could find those?

[@OfficerArsenault]

There are civilian jobs with Police Departments which are found on their websites.

[@mashstick7415]

Is it still possible to apply to become a police officer with little to no volunteer experience? Also how can I get in touch if I do want to volunteer at a local division (i.e 43 division)?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes and I have a video about this 👍🏼

[@Silvabross]

I wanna be a cop but I have to go to school I don't know why that's a thing it makes no sense to me

[@sergeantkawaii8070]

Crazy how I’m doing exactly what he said to do in the video already lol

[@OfficerArsenault]

👍🏼

[@jakeells66]

Ironically enough the first time I thought about becoming a police officer was when I was an HVAC apprentice and got laid off (as well as most of the company). Now I'm starting my process to apply as a police officer because I recently got laid off as a plumber (also, as well as most of the company. Different company) 😂

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good luck to you!

[@Wavyboyangel029]

True

[@OfficerArsenault]

👍🏼

[@AdwaithSuresh-sb7oj]

Hai,how about someone for other country?

[@MrTantraMan]

I have seen vids on the hiring process to be cops: ugh!! Brutal! Now that Randal here mentioned the force hiring people in their 50s, that is huge and all the things he mentioned are spot on. Would I ever condlsider being a cop? The degree of danger and stress involved.....no! I'm high functioning autistic: I'm betting no police officer was ever high functioning autistic. I could be wrong.

[@OfficerArsenault]

I’m not too sure but you raise an interesting point. Thank you for the input.

[@MyFamilyBlogs.]

So I can’t try to enroll the police academy if I have a GED?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Negative.

[@qiqisaunders-vi2ic]

I did want it ask how old do most states require for you to be a cop?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Not too sure, min. 21 I heard?

[@rostikgoma5251]

Do I need to have lived in Canada for the last 10 years as a permanent residence holder? Thank you!

[@OfficerArsenault]

Negative, all that is stated online. Good luck to you if it’s a career option!

[@rostikgoma5251]

@@OfficerArsenaultThank you!)))

[@DeepKaur-jx2fi]

Hllo sir, I done my high school and know I’m enrolled in administrative professional diploma in portage college and I want to become police officer what I can do plz help.

[@OfficerArsenault]

I made an updated video 👍🏼

[@varghesekuriakose1978]

If I became a police officer in Ontario and if I get green card in the states. Can I be a police officer in the state?

[@OfficerArsenault]

I’m not sure of any rules or guidelines for the states.

[@TI_AR_UK]

Do you know how I can get help on the simulation ?

[@OfficerArsenault]

There’s certainly some tips to it, @policetestontario on IG gives some solid advice and training, I’d connect. Good luck!

[@TI_AR_UK]

@@OfficerArsenault Do you know where to get help for the simulation and how can I get help from police on that?

[@TI_AR_UK]

@@OfficerArsenaultI want to leave the simulation but it involves first getting someone to stop acting.

[@Sisko1500]

Oh shit did not know, I have done lot's of gta 5 RP as a cop, Me applies anyways

[@jiraiya1231]

How does it make sense that applicants need to have perfect vision and cannot become a police officer if they wear prescription glasses. However at the same time police officers that have been on the job for a while can continue working if they need prescription glasses. So unfair and this keeps out many people from being able to apply as not everyone can get LASIK.

[@jiraiya1231]

Is there any police force in Ontario/ Canada that would accept people who wear prescription eyeglasses??

[@XS_ELLA356]

Hi I am in 12 th grade I really want to be a police in Canada can I take police foundation ?is it a good course? Or criminology is best?pls reply

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes they are both good, I made a similar video about educational requirements, I would look it up ✌🏼

[@XS_ELLA356]

@@OfficerArsenault ok how to get PR ? When my sis get PR so can i also get

[@technicallyrics-fy2mh]

What should i take after high school

[@OfficerArsenault]

I made a recent video about that 👍🏼

[@carmram28288]

Is there a height and weight requirement in order to become a police officer?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Negative.

[@carmram28288]

@@OfficerArsenault That’s great to hear, as back in the day, there was As you can probably guess, yes I am short 5 ft 3 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@aurozappa305]

Remember police have no obligation to protect anyone from harm . Its all about social control , and revenue

[@bruceleesh4064]

I am turning 29 in the next few weeks, I am f, 5'3 only 120, and I want to be an officer so bad but I was told I never could because of gender and size.... my question is if they would even consider someone this small or old?? I worked in trades for years so I know what work is but I want and deserve more!! Also I have family member's with addiction issues\trades workers, I have expirince out the ying yang with hard work\hard lives I just need a chance

[@bruceleesh4064]

Also I'm in ktown if u know what that is, thank you so so much for this video you've really inspired me :)

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you for the input, you absolutely have a chance! Nevermind gender or size, just be of good character ✌🏼

[@Slyfoxes-ht1rs]

i live in sri lanka i also want to become an american police officer how can i become an american police officer i am an arts graduate in sri lanka

[@thecanucks]

Greeting Officer, I have been charged with 3 uttering threats, can I still apply to become a police officer.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Would all depend on how long ago, and a variety of other things.

[@JadenJeffy]

Will im 14 years old i wanna become a police officer im coming from Haiti

[@OfficialLefnot]

i see blood or gore i dont even feel the need to vomit all i do is stop the bleeding to what evers bleeding

[@OfficerArsenault]

Good way to be ✌🏼

[@keithbartholomew9433]

Well, after watching this video, even though I'm too old now, there's no way I would ever have been able to be a police officer😂😂

[@OfficerArsenault]

I appreciate the input 🙏🏼

[@user-zl2vr3ty3v]

Sir i am a PR holder and a new comer in canada From where should i start ? I wanna be a police officer and i am really interested in being a police officer and do my duties with hard work and manner ...

[@AnnaAnnieAnneofGreenGables]

Permanent residents can apply for citizenship, but as non-citizens, they can neither vote nor run for political office, nor hold jobs that require “high-level security clearance.”[2]

[@OfficerArsenault]

I have other videos on this, please check for info and good luck!

[@AnnaAnnieAnneofGreenGables]

@OfficerArsenault not high enough level of "security clearance" ?

[@antorhoque3463]

Can u become a police officer if u have a criminal record but got pardoned for it and it was a minor crime?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes you can.

[@helifynoe9930]

You just have to follow a few rules. Escalate, Fabricate, and Retaliate. It's as simple as that.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Okay there.

[@tussharkumarchangotra3718]

Hello Officer I am Very intrested To Become a Cop Please Let Me Know How I Prepare For My Policing Tests either it's Written Exam as well Panel Interview While I Doing My Diploma Program I Don't Want To Waste My Time Please Help Me To Become Successful Cop

[@OfficerArsenault]

I just made a video about this last week, check out more videos 👍🏼

[@OTJay]

@@OfficerArsenaultwhat’s the video called

[@joelgaulton3565]

I wanted to be one but they're pretty corrupt. In my experience there's a culture of covering things up in law enforcement (sorry, but it's true) and if you become a whistleblower and call out the legal violation you will be retaliated against or viewed as a traitor. If you wanna help people legally you should become a lawyer.

[@OfficerArsenault]

I’d disagree with you. Majority are decent and honest and do call others out. Times have changed.

[@stanleykania7184]

Watch the channel Here's the deal before thinking of being a cop.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Thank you.

[@AnnaAnnieAnneofGreenGables]

What do you think of kamikazes? Lol Trick question ain't it?

[@OfficerArsenault]

Don’t know what that is.

[@AnnaAnnieAnneofGreenGables]

@OfficerArsenault Google it Sir.

[@AnnaAnnieAnneofGreenGables]

@@OfficerArsenault Did I not spell it correctly?

[@AnnaAnnieAnneofGreenGables]

@OfficerArsenault like good mountineers, they don't take anyone else with them to hell or death

[@torontostew]

Let’s not forget the background check officer pulling up deleted tweets and posts

[@nikolai3620]

They can't go that far, haha.

[@torontostew]

@@nikolai3620 when you go through the background check process as part of getting hired the screening officer will pull everything from your social media accounts. They don’t even need to be on your friends list. Essentially every post you have posted on social media can be found even deleted posts. My background check did just that. Fortunately I had nothing to hide. This only applies to the hiring process. Not your VSS check or regular background check.

[@OfficerArsenault]

True enough!

[@cliffmorrison1130]

Find something else to do! It’s not worth it anymore.

[@OfficerArsenault]

I’ve certainly heard that a lot lately 🙏🏼

[@abk072]

Hi This is krishna from India, I'm 27-Male, I have good Tech and Cyber security skills(i have certs to back my claim), And I'm interested in moving to canada and to join the police force, is it possible and if "yes" can you please tell me what are my options.

[@OfficerArsenault]

Yes it’s always possible but it will take much work, I’ve made newer videos but everything you need is online 👍🏼

[@abk072]

@@OfficerArsenault Thankyou for your reply sir, Much appreciated!