New York State University Police officers must meet the highest standards in New York State, as well as in the country, for law enforcement officers.
To become a New York State University Police officer, a person must:
- Be 21 years of age and not over 35 years at the time of the Civil Service test
- Be a New York State resident
- Have completed 60 college credit hours
- Possess a valid New York State driver’s license
- Pass a written Civil Service examination
- Pass a medical examination
- Have binocular acuity of 20/20 corrected or uncorrected, and no less than 20/100 uncorrected
- Pass a physical agility test (includes testing for cardiovascular and muscular endurance, strength, and flexibility)
- Pass a psychological examination
- Pass an extensive background investigation
- Pass 6 months of basic training at a regional Police Academy.
- Complete an 18 month probationary period of employment.
The first step is the Civil Service examination. Following notification of a successful score, candidates must then pass the oral interview and all medical/psychological testing. Upon successful completion of the selection process, all recruits begin training at the regional Police Academy.
Benefits
As an employee of New York State, a State University Police officer is eligible for many benefits. These benefits include:
- 13 paid holidays per year
- Up to 30 vacation days
- Annual paid uniform cleaning allowance.
- All safety related equipment will be supplied by SUNY
- Police and Fire Retirement System, 25 year half pay benefit regardless of age.
- Choice among several medical and dental programs
- Optional long-and short-term disability coverage
- Employer-paid life insurance with employee-paid option to increase level of coverage
- Voluntary enrollment in local credit union
- Special event overtime opportunities
- Shift differential pay
- Expanded duty pay
Further information regarding careers in SUNY University Police can be obtained by contacting your nearest SUNY Department of University Police station or the Office of University Police, System Administration, SUNY Plaza, Albany, New York 12246 (518.443.5116).