seeking to specialize in forensics can obtain a minor in crime scene and forensic analysis by attending two academic classes . Practical exercises are conducted at academy ’ s inhouse crime scene processing facility .
Academy Director Butch Newkirk said , “ It ’ s an amazing thing .” Essentially , each student receives about 2 ½ years of hands-on education and training .
Beginning in their freshman year students are required to attend weekly in-service training where they receive an average of 20 hours of POST credit each year .
Police leaders have noted the “ graduates are well-educated , understand the theory , as well as the practical aspects of the job .”
In their final semester , students are required to complete an internship . Since students have already received their POST certification , a number of agencies are hiring the students and utilize the 16-week field training program as their internship .
Dr . Orr said , “ at their most recent academy graduation , one student was sworn in on the stage by the department that had hired them .”
In the end , a police organization can only be as good as the people they hire . With increased challenges to the status-quo , leaders have a responsibility to seek alternative approaches to attract high quality candidates .
Reaching out to highly educated and trained individuals is critical to accomplishing this expectation . Georgia ’ s colleges and universities offer a rich source of individuals who can fill this need .
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