It's one course where you don't have to pay tuition or write a final exam.

The Saskatoon Police Service is accepting applications for the Community Police Academy, a free program that runs every Wednesday night between Sept. 12 and Dec. 5.

Only 25 people are admitted into the 13-week course, which has allowed Saskatoon residents to see their city through the eyes of a police officer for the past 14 years.

"I think it was recognition that in order to be successful as a police service, that we needed to work more in partnership with the community," said Cst. Kathy Wiens, who is in charge of police academy.

"Part of it is educating the community."

She said most police units will make a presentation, allowing "students" a chance to ask questions. There's even an optional opportunity to go on a ride-along or sit in on the detention unit.

"The ride-along, you may get into a little bit of action or it may be a quiet evening. It's hard to tell, but people enjoy it," Wiens said.

She described most people who go to police academy as wanting to get a better understanding of policing, while others see it as a step towards eventually becoming an officer.

Anyone over 18 can apply by visiting the Saskatoon Police Service website (add link) or picking up a form at police headquarters.

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