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The Public Safety AAS degree program at SUNY Niagara is designed to provide students pursuing a career in criminal justice with the unique opportunity to complete the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy (NCLEA) as part of their academic program. During the first year, students complete 33 credit hours in foundational coursework in criminal justice and the social sciences, ensuring a strong academic base and a smooth transition into the specialized curriculum of the second-year Police Basic Training program with the NCLEA.
The program provides a clear pathway from the study of criminal justice to preparing for the practice of policing in New York State. Central to the program is the Police Basic Training program, delivered through the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy, which fulfills the requirements of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services’ Basic Course for Police Officers. Students complete 30 credits of academy coursework.
Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers with law enforcement agencies or in a variety of roles within the broader criminal justice system. In addition, students may choose to transfer their credits to a four-year institution to continue their studies toward a Bachelor of Science degree.
Through rigorous academic instruction and hands-on training in partnership with NCLEA, graduates are prepared to apply New York State law, respond effectively to the challenges of policing, and contribute meaningfully to the safety of their communities.
The typical program length for a full-time student will be two semesters of full-time classroom study followed by the 20-week Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy (NCLEA) Police Basic Training. The Public Safety AAS program admits students in Fall and Spring semesters. Law enforcement training academies typically begin in August and February. It will also be possible for students to transfer into this major after completing the Police Basic Training/Police Basic Training Certificate program.
In order to be considered for employment, candidates must be a citizen or legal resident of the United States and may not have been convicted of a felony.
If you are accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter from NCLEA
**Students applying to the SUNY Niagara program will not be automatically accepted into the academy. They must meet all requirements listed above**
After completing this program, the graduate will:
Career information and opportunities
Public Safety, A.A.S.
SUNY Niagara’s Public Safety A.A.S. combines a year of criminal justice coursework with the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy. You’ll finish with an associate degree and Phase 1 police training.
Last updated: Oct. 22, 2026
What careers does a Public Safety A.A.S. lead to?
What does it take to get hired as a police officer?
How can I move up?
With experience, officers can join specialized units, become detectives and investigators, or get promoted to sergeant and beyond. A college degree can help with promotion, and your A.A.S. credits can also transfer toward a bachelor’s degree.
How much can I earn in Western New York?
Starting pay is what newer workers typically earn. Median means half of workers earn more and half earn less.
Western New York includes Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties. The median for all jobs in the region is about $51,360. Pay depends on the agency, your rank and your years of service.
What is the job outlook in Western New York?
Across all jobs in Western New York, employment is expected to grow about 9%. Police jobs are expected to grow more than twice as fast.
Where do public safety professionals work?
Where will I get hands-on experience?
How do I get there?
The academy coursework meets the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Basic Course for Police Officers (Phase 1). You may also transfer credits to a four-year school toward a bachelor’s degree.
Which courses prepare me?