Basic Program

Mission Purpose Program Summary Standards Process Class Dates Apply

 

The mission of the academy is to provide training and testing that ensures each student graduates with the demonstrated character, knowledge, problem-solving abilities, human relations, communication and physical skills necessary to meet the professional standards required of a peace officer.

 

The Hill College Police Academy strives to prepare students mentally, morally and physically to advance into a field-training program, assume the responsibilities and execute the duties of a peace officer in society.  This Academy also strives to assure the missions of TCOLE and Hill College are met.

The basic academy program involves more than 736 hours of classroom and hands-on training.  This course is available to police departments sending recruits, or individual applicants. Completion of this training allows individuals to take the TCOLE licensing examination to become a Texas Peace Officer.

The basic academy program is available to individuals who meet admission standards and are accepted for attendance.   Attendees must be prepared for a demanding program.  The process is mentally and physically challenging.  There are significant time demands both in and out of the classroom. But the rewards are high for those who are capable of the challenge.  Policing is an honorable profession.  Service to others is a high calling, one that few are willing to accept in their lives.

Our program typically runs Monday – Thursday during the day.  Alternative times may be available as local demand requires and time allows.

We have very strict attendance and appearance standards.  We require participation in physical training regimens and expect attendees to maintain the highest standards of ethical behavior.  You will have to pass a thorough background investigation, physical examination, drug screen, and psychological screening.

Still interested? Training Coordinators should contact the Academy Coordinator directly. If you are applying as an independent applicant, your first step is to review the admission standards.  Here you can learn about what is required to attend, read about the background investigation process, and learn about enrollment, fees, required equipment, withdrawal, dropping, disability accommodation, and Veterans information.

 

 

Daytime class dates are all held at the Burleson Higher Education Center. 

  • March 23 - August 7, 2026
  • June 29 - November 13, 2026
  • August 24, 2026 - January 8, 2027
  • November 16, 2026 - April 2, 2027

The Hill College Police Academy can offer two evening programs each year. These are determined by adequate interest. Dates are pending, but generally start in the Spring and Fall and are held in Cleburne at the Johnson County Campus.

If you're interested in evening classes, please contact program coordinator Mike Hughes at mwhughes@hillcollege.edu. 

 

The link below will forward you to a pre-screening form.  This form will be used to determine if you meet minimum admission standards for the police academy.  Completion of the form does not qualify you for attendance.  There are numerous steps in the application process.

 

In-Service Program

Mission Purpose Class Dates

 

The mission of the in-service program is to provide training that ensures officers continue to meet the professional standards required of a peace officer.

 

The in-service training program strives to advance the knowledge and skills of criminal justice practitioners, better equipping them to continue the practice of their duties and responsibilities in society.

Classes will be announced soon.

Contact

Mike Hughes

Mike Hughes
Police Academy Coordinator
112 Lamar
Hillsboro, TX 76645
254.659.7983
mwhughes@hillcollege.edu

Class Descriptions

The TCOLE Basic Instructor Class is designed for law enforcement personnel seeking to enhance their instructional skills. This 40-hour course covers essential principles of adult learning, lesson planning, and effective presentation techniques. Participants will also learn assessment and evaluation methods to ensure impactful training delivery.

Duration: 40 hours
Location: Hill College Campus, Cleburne, Texas
Cost: $269
Prerequisites: None
Dates: November 18 - 22, 2024; January 3 - 7, 2025; May 19 - 23, 2025
Dress Code: Uniform or Business Casual
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper, Laptop
Registration: Register Here

The TCOLE Basic Instructor Class is designed for law enforcement personnel seeking to enhance their instructional skills. This 40-hour course covers essential principles of adult learning, lesson planning, and effective presentation techniques. Participants will also learn assessment and evaluation methods to ensure impactful training delivery.

Duration: 40 hours
Location: Hill College Campus, Cleburne, Texas
Cost: $269
Prerequisites: None
Dates: November 18 - 22, 2024; January 3 - 7, 2025; May 19 - 23, 2025
Dress Code: Uniform or Business Casual
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper, Laptop
Registration: Register Here

The TCOLE Firearms Instructor Class is designed for law enforcement personnel to learn how to be firearms instructors. This 40-hour course covers essential topics, including safe handling, marksmanship fundamentals, and effective training methodologies. Participants will engage in hands-on exercises to develop their skills in instructing others in the safe and proficient use of firearms.

Duration: 40 hours
Location: Hill College Campus and Range, Hillsboro, Texas
Cost: $269
Prerequisites: Completed TCOLE Basic Instructor Class and hold the related certificate
Dates: March 24 - 28, 2025; September 15 - 19, 2025
Dress Code: Attire appropriate for outdoor activity (please bring foul weather dress as well)
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper
Note: All attendees must pass the shooting qualification the morning of the first day of class. An equipment and ammunition list will be emailed.
Registration: Register Here

The TCOLE Patrol Rifle Instructor Class is designed for law enforcement personnel to learn how to be patrol rifle instructors. This 40-hour course covers critical topics, including safe handling, rifle marksmanship fundamentals, and effective training methodologies specific to patrol rifles. Participants will engage in hands-on exercises to develop their skills in instructing others in the safe and proficient use of patrol rifles.

Duration: 40 hours
Location: Hill College Campus and Range, Hillsboro, Texas
Cost: $269
Prerequisites: Completed TCOLE Firearms Instructor Class
Dates: April 28 - May 1, 2025; October 13 - 16, 2025 (10-hour days)
Dress Code: Attire appropriate for outdoor activity (please bring foul weather dress as well)
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper
Note: An equipment and ammunition list will be emailed.
Registration: Register Here

The TCOLE Intermediate Crime Scene Class is designed for law enforcement officers who need this training to meet the requirements for their Intermediate Peace Officer certificate. This 40-hour course covers essential techniques for crime scene processing, including evidence collection and preservation.

Duration: 40 hours
Location: Hill College Campus, Cleburne, Texas
Cost: $269
Prerequisites: None
Dates: January 20 - 24, 2025; March 10 - 14, 2025; June 9 - 13, 2025
Dress Code: Uniform or Business Casual
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper, Laptop, Camera, Tape Measure (x 2)
Registration: Register Here

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Class is designed for law enforcement personnel to enhance their communication skills and understanding when interacting with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. This 4-hour course covers essential topics, including communication techniques and cultural awareness. Participants will engage in interactive exercises to develop their skills in effectively communicating and ensuring accessibility for those with hearing impairments.

Duration: 4 hours
Location: Hill College Campus, Cleburne, Texas
Cost: $35
Prerequisites: None
Dates: April 21; May 12; July 14; August 11 (1 - 5 p.m.)
Dress Code: Uniform or Business Casual
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper
Registration: Register Here

The TCOLE Canine Encounters Class is designed for law enforcement personnel to enhance their understanding of encounters involving canines. This 4-hour course covers essential topics, including canine behavior, safety considerations, and effective communication techniques during encounters with dogs in various environments. Participants will engage in discussions and scenarios to develop their skills in managing canine encounters safely and effectively.

Duration: 4 hours
Location: Hill College Campus, Cleburne, Texas
Cost: $35
Prerequisites: None
Dates: April 21; May 12; July 14; August 11 (8 a.m. - Noon)
Dress Code: Uniform or Business Casual
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper
Registration: Register Here

The Basic Patrol Rifle Class is designed for law enforcement personnel to develop foundational skills in the use of patrol rifles. This 30-hour course focuses on essential topics such as safe handling, marksmanship, and effective training methodologies specific to patrol rifles. Participants will engage in hands-on exercises to enhance their proficiency in using patrol rifles in various law enforcement scenarios.

Duration: 30 hours
Location: Hill College Campus and Range, Hillsboro, Texas
Cost: $229
Prerequisites: None
Dates: February 7 - 9, 2025
Dress Code: Attire appropriate for outdoor activity (please bring foul weather dress as well)
Student Supplies: Pen, Paper
Registration: Register Here

Administrative Reports & Documents