FBI National Academy

The FBI National Academy is an independent program for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders. The first session began on July 29, 1935, with 23 students in attendance. At the time, professional development for law enforcement leaders was largely non-existent. The program focuses on leadership and the administration of justice in state and local law enforcement. It has a stated mission "to support, promote, and enhance the personal and professional development of law enforcement leaders by preparing them for complex, dynamic, and contemporary challenges through innovative techniques, facilitating excellence in education and research, and forging partnerships throughout the world."

Attendees
Participants are nominated by their superiors through FBI Field Offices or through US Embassies. Students come from all fifty US States, from U.S. territories, and from over 150 foreign nations.

Course of study
Four ten-week sessions are conducted every year. Each session includes some 250 officers who take undergraduate and/or graduate college courses on the Quantico, Virginia, campus in the following areas: Law, Behavioral science, Forensic Science, Leadership Development, Communication, and Health/Fitness. Students participate in a wide range of leadership development and social programs that allow them to share ideas and experiences.

History
The FBI National Academy was created following a 1930 study by the Wickersham Commission that recommended the centralization and standardization of the law enforcement training throughout the United States. Initially it was created as the "FBI Police Training School" by the authority of Congress and the Department of Justice. Courses promoted Scientific Aids in Crime Detection, effective use of police information, innovations in criminal investigation, and police administration. During World War II, courses were added concerning espionage and sabotage.