Student Experience

What to Expect

The Police Foundations program at Algonquin College is the first step in preparing for a career in law enforcement. Our professors bring industry experience to the classroom to further assist students in preparing to enter the workforce.

Program Highlights

  • Scenario-based learning
  • Industry speakers and experts
  • Canadian Laws and their application
  • Career portfolio development
  • Communication and interpersonal skill development
  • Strong fitness component
  • Law enforcement-specific writing skills
  • Community service opportunities
  • Research
Scenario based learning in Police Foundations with three students in the Simulation Lab.Scenario based learning in Police Foundations

Stay fit in our on-site facilities
As fitness is an important aspect to a career in law enforcement, in the program you will use an on-site fitness lab to prepare for the PREP and PARE physical readiness tests. In support of your work in our fitness lab, you are expected to establish and maintain your own exercise schedule. . Students who are full–time or paying the student activity fee have access to our new Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre on campus.

Students in the Police Foundations program using specific fitness equipment to prepare to apply for Police Services testing.

Watch: Police Foundations Info Session. Hear from faculty, a student and a graduate about how the program will provide you with a foundational knowledge of the field of law enforcement.

Success Stories and Testimonials

Hear firsthand from Conor about what he got out of the Police Foundations program, and how to be successful in the program:

 

Ryan de Ville“My overall experience in going through the Algonquin College Police Foundations program was one that I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else.

The amazing faculty shared their real life experience – from being youth services workers, police officers, social workers, to doctors and mental health workers. In my opinion getting taught from a professor who has had a past career in the topic makes the class much more exciting!

I know that what I have learned here at Algonquin College will stick around with me through my future endeavors/career. This program has made my life long goal of becoming a police officer one step closer — and by one step, I mean a step packed full of experiences, memories, continuous learning and lifelong connections.

My favourite part of this course is the real experience you get. During my first year, after talking with faculty I decided to start working at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and volunteered at many organizations throughout the Ottawa area. This program has endless opportunities and the advice I would give to all current/future students is to put your absolute all into this program, talk to the instructors and get the critical feedback they are happy to provide. When the professors offer additional course/training…take it!! The opportunities that can arise from these conversations/bonuses are crucial for your next steps in the real world and these lifelong connections can be one of the most important aspects to any post-secondary education.”

– Ryan de Ville Graduate, Frontline Worker, Ottawa Mission, Security Services, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre

Hear from Zach, a Student and Yasmenah, a Graduate about their experiences in the program.

“All the professors have so much experience in policing, investigations, in the discipline they’re teaching in, hearing them talk about all the things they did in their career really motivates students to strive to be successful.

It’s a highly-regarded program so right away when my work found out I graduated from here it was an asset. The skills I learned here (the report-writing, the investigations) all played a part in what I do today in my position.”

– Nicholas, Graduate, Royal Canadian Mint

“I have been fortunate to work with graduates of Police Foundations programs in the past in a mental health facility I worked in and found the individuals to be strong members of the team and most concerned for the well being of youth.”

-Roxanne Trumble-Elliston, Operations Manager, Kemptville Youth Centre

Work Integrated Learning

Recruitment events: In addition to the AC program wide career fair held every winter semester, our program hosts recruitment events throughout the academic year. These can include field representatives from all levels of policing, security and bylaw agencies, Commissionaires, Corrections, and other law enforcement agencies.

Students in the PFP2000 Research course participate in an annual project showcase during the winter semester. Professors, program administrators and industry representatives attend to learn about the students’ research projects.

Portfolio development is a measurable outcome of the program. Students taking PFP4098 Career Preparation in level 3 have the opportunity to take part in mock interviews, resume development and learn from industry representatives, all of which contributes to their professional portfolios.

Community service is integral to our program and reflects current trends in law enforcement fields. Our students are recruited regularly to lend a hand in the community. Students take PFP6000 Community Service in level 2 and serve volunteer hours with community partners which are aligned with core competencies expected from industry.

William BourgaultPolice Foundations student stepping up for those in need.

Read about how Police Foundations student William Bourgault and his team have collected 1500 pairs of shoes and helped over 400 individuals through his charity, Footwear 4Kids.

Read the Ottawa Citizen article here!

How you can help: Footwear 4 Kids collects shoes, especially sneakers for kids and youth. They accept donations of new or gently used shoes and will pick them up from your home. They are also looking for volunteers to collect and distribute shoes. Learn more at Footwear 4Kids and follow on Instagram or Facebook.