Explorer Program
Law Enforcement Explorer Program
The Oceanside Police Department Explorer Program is designed for responsible young men and women to explore all aspects of law enforcement. They have direct interaction with working field officers, supervisors and support staff, to expand their interest in the law enforcement profession as a career. Explorers also have the opportunity to participate in a week-long law enforcement Explorer academy, as well as weekend academies held over the course of the year.
Explorer candidates must meet rigid standards in order to qualify for participation in the program. During the application process, a complete records and background check is conducted and personal references are contacted.
The Explorer program has five areas of emphasis:
Career Opportunities
Develop contacts that may broaden employment options
Life Skills
Develop positive social interaction and physical and mental fitness
Citizenship
Encourage the skill and desire to help others through community service
Character Education
Learn to make ethical choices and decisions
Leadership Experience
Acquire leadership skills to fulfill one’s responsibilities in society
Recruiting occurs each January, however, emails showing interest in the program can be sent year round to the Explorer coordinator named below. You will be notified of the date of the next orientation meeting, usually in December.
Minimum qualifications:
- An applicant must be between the ages of 16 and 20 and have completed the 8th grade.
- Enrolled in, or in receipt of a high school diploma or GED certificate.
- If enrolled in high school, maintain at least an overall “C” average.
- Ability to commit to a minimum of 20 hours per month of service. This may be accomplished through a balance of regularly scheduled meetings, ride-alongs, performing office work, training, and special events.
If you are interested in joining the Oceanside Law Enforcement Explorer Program, please email your contact information and a brief message to Ryan Malone at RMalone@ci.oceanside.ca.us or (760) 435-4537.
