Training and Classes | SCDPS
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South Carolina Department of Public Safety

Training and Classes

The Training Experience

All Bureau of Protective Services (BPS) Officers undergo 12 weeks of intensive training at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy before beginning their law enforcement careers.

Basic Law Enforcement (BLE) - 12 weeks

The Basic Law Enforcement program (BLE) is mandated by South Carolina Law and provides officers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and the abilities to perform the duties of a certified law enforcement officer in the state of South Carolina. The curriculum during this program includes Pre-Academy Orientation topics along with the following:

  • Criminal law
  • Civil liability
  • Probable cause and arrest
  • Emergency vehicle operations 
  • Crime scene evidence
  • Behavioral science
  • Basic patrol operations
  • Interview and interrogation
  • Report writing
  • Basic collision investigation
  • DUI detection and field sobriety testing

Upon completion of the twelve week training the candidate will be a certified Class 1 Law Enforcement Officer.