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CMUPD Citizens Police Academy

Discover what it’s like to be part of law enforcement at Carnegie Mellon University. The CMUPD Citizens Police Academy offers students a unique opportunity to gain an inside look at the training, responsibilities, decision-making, and community partnerships that help define the Carnegie Mellon University Police Department.

The Citizens Police Academy is now officially listed in the Schedule of Classes as a Mini-2 credit course beginning October 19, 2026, with the first class scheduled to begin on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Students interested in participating must now register or apply for the course through the official Mini-2 course listing.

CMU’s Citizens Police Academy is a six-week course held at 300 South Craig Street, in the building attached to the CMU Police Station. The Academy is designed to help strengthen the relationship between the CMU Police Department and the student community by providing participants with a better understanding of campus policing, officer training, public safety responsibilities, and the challenges police officers face each day.

Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to learn directly from CMUPD officers in an open and engaging classroom setting. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions, take part in discussions, and gain valuable insight into how CMUPD works to support a safe, welcoming, and informed campus environment. The Academy also gives students a closer look at the many different roles officers serve on campus, including emergency response, crime prevention, community engagement, investigations, and support services.

This course is intended to provide students with a better understanding of how police officers are trained, how decisions are made in the field, and how CMUPD works with campus partners to address safety concerns. Students will also learn about the importance of communication, de-escalation, professionalism, and trust-building in public safety.

Topics include, but are not limited to:

  • History of policing

  • Patrol techniques

  • Crime and vehicle codes

  • Duties and rights as a witness or victim

  • Mental health response

  • Special investigations

  • Drug and alcohol laws

  • Self-defense

  • De-escalation techniques

  • Campus safety resources

  • Community policing and partnerships

  • Officer training and daily responsibilities

The CMU Police Department hopes this experience will help educate students about the role and functions of CMU police while encouraging open dialogue between students and officers. The Academy is also intended to foster stronger relationships, deeper understanding, and more positive interactions between the CMU student community and CMUPD.

By participating in the Citizens Police Academy, students will gain a broader perspective on campus safety, law enforcement operations, and the shared responsibility of maintaining a safe and supportive university community. The course provides a meaningful opportunity for students to better understand CMUPD’s commitment to service, professionalism, accountability, and community partnership.