Before you apply to a police force in Wyoming, you should be sure you can meet the prerequisites for application. Some departments have slightly verying requirements so it is a good idea to verify the specifics before applying. If selected to attempt to apply, the candidate will be contacted to attempt the POST exam. If this is passed with a competitive score the person may then undergo a physical assessment to see if they meet the physical requirements of a Wyoming officer. Following the physical assessment is an interview and background check, followed by a medical exam. A candidate who makes it through the above progression may or may not be offered a job. If a candidate is selected, they will attend a Wyoming police training academy for training. If a cadet graduates basic training they will need to complete field training before becoming a police officer. Field training is conducted by a supervising field training officer. After successfully completing this training an individual would then be considered a full Wyoming officer of the law and begin their work as a patrol officer in Wyoming.
Wyoming State Requirements
The minimum requirements of police officers in Wyoming are that an individual must be 21, have a valid state driver’s license, a clean driving and criminal record, be a US citizen, and have graduated high school. Some police departments have additional requirements (such as specifics on eyesight, tattoos and where a person resides etc.) therefore it is important to confirm the details with the police department to which you are applying. If a candidate does not meet all requirements he or she may be barred from applying.
Wyoming Law Enforcement Salary
The mean salary of a Wyoming police officer is about 50,000 each year. This means an officer’s salary in Wyoming could vary from than the average based upon the area where they work, their level or education, and how many years of experience they have. For Wyoming officers who reach ranks such as detective or sergeant they may make an average salary closer to 60,000/year. It is possible for Police supervisors to make closer to 70,000 a year according to the average on Law Enforcement EDU.net. One way to ensure a higher pay is to earn a criminal justice degree, or some other type of law-enforcement related degree. Holding a degree in the field may set you apart from your competition for jobs and salary.
Wyoming Law Enforcement Schooling
Those looking to advance themselves through education may want to look at these Wyoming schools and their law enforcement related programs. While not complete, this list does give a number of programs available. Having a more specified degree, such as forensic science or corrections, may make one even more marketable than those simply majoring in criminal justice. However, any degree is better than no degree at all.
- Casper College
125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601
800-442-2963
- Central Wyoming College
2660 Peck Avenue, Riverton, WY 82501
800-735-8418
- Eastern Wyoming College
3200 West C Street, Torrington, WY 82240
307-532-8245
- Laramie County Community College
1400 E College Drive, Cheyenne, WY 82007
307-778-5222
- University of Wyoming
1000 E University Avenue, Laramie, WY 82071
307-766-1121
- Western Wyoming Community College
2500 College Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901
307-382-1600