Applicants must be at least 18 up to 20 ½ years of age, possess a high school diploma or equivalent and must be currently enrolled on a full-time basis in an accredited college or university program with emphasis in criminal justice, and/or demonstrate intent to pursue a degree in criminal justice or related field.
 
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Successfully complete and submit the application form.
2. Be a high school graduate or graduating senior with an overall 2.5 GPA.
3. Be enrolled in an accredited college or university and pursuing a degree or Certificate in a field related to the policing profession. It will be the applicant's responsibility to demonstrate how the selected field of study is related to the policing profession.
4. Maintain a 2.5 GPA or higher while enrolled at an accredited college or university with a minimum of twelve (12) semester units each semester.  Failure to maintain the minimum 2.5 GPA or semester units will result in the loss of the cadet internship and the scholarship.
5. Does not have to be a resident of the City of Oceanside; however, Oceanside residents will be given preference.
6. Not be eligible to apply as a police officer at time of starting cadet internship and receiving scholarship.
7. Must submit two (2) letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or employers, etc.
8. Successfully pass a thorough police background, polygraph, psychological, and a medical examination, which will include drug screening.
9. Does not have to be an Explorer; however, preference will be given to members of the Explorer Program within the Oceanside Police Department.  
10. Possess a valid California Class C Driver's License at time of appointment.

Environmental Conditions: Office in Police Department; driving a City vehicle; field environment in all types of weather; may be in heavily trafficked City streets; exposure to potentially dangerous situations associated with law enforcement; exposure to computer screens.

Physical Conditions: Essential functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for kneeling, lifting, bending, sitting and standing for prolonged periods of time; speaking and hearing to exchange information; visual acuity to read and interpret information.

Selection Process: All applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process.

Note:  Prospective employees will undergo, and must successfully pass, a background reference check (including fingerprinting) and a medical examination.  Drug screening may be required.