Hundreds of residents have completed the Citizens Police Academy since the Police Department first offered the program in 2000.  Sessions are held twice a year, in the spring and fall.  The 10-week class meets Monday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. to learn about topics such as crime scene investigation, defensive driving, gun safety, domestic violence and crime prevention. 

In addition, Academy participants must complete at least 25 hours of ride-along and work-along time with Myrtle Beach police officers and personnel.  Students arrange these sessions at their convenience. After all, the Myrtle Beach Police Department is a 24-hour a day operation.  Academy participants also learn to use the firearms training simulator, a room-sized video experience.

The Citizens Police Academy is not designed to turn you into a police officer, but it will give you an appreciation of what law enforcement officers do and the decisions they must make.  An optional Saturday class allows time for special (fun) topics, and graduation ceremonies are held at the end of the course. 

The Police Department accepts applications for the Citizens Police Academy twice a year, as announced.  Applications for the next session will be accepted at a future time, so stay tuned.  Here are the application criteria.   

• Applicants must be at least 21 years old.

• Applicants must live or work in Horry County.  Residents of Myrtle Beach will receive first preference.

• Applicants must complete a personal history form.

• Applicants must undergo a background investigation and a criminal history check.

• Applicants must complete a minimum of 15 hours of ride-along/work-along time, including five hours on day shift, five hours on evening shift, five hours on overnight shift, five hours with Special Operations or Beach Patrol and five hours observing dispatch and service desk.  Participation in the optional Saturday class decreases the number of required hours.

• Applicants must attend at least eight of the 10 meetings to graduate.