The academies give 20-30 business, civic, religious, and community leaders an inside look at federal law enforcement in general and the FBI, in particular. Their overall goal is to foster relationships and understanding between an FBI field office and its community, and so improve the Bureau’s ability to solve/detect crimes and help citizens make their communities a better and safer place. Today, FBI Citizens' Academies have established requirements, goals, and a curriculum. Each session is open to those persons who have been nominated by a Bureau employee or a previous Academy attendee. The Special Agent in Charge (SAC) selects the participants, who must then undergo a background investigation in order to obtain an interim security clearance. Security clearances must be obtained because part of the curriculum covers investigative techniques used in national security and criminal investigations. Classes are taught by SACs, Assistant Special Agents in Charge (ASACs), and senior Special Agents (SAs), and there are eight meetings over a 10-week period.

Citizens' Academy Requirements

Must be a business, civic, religious, or community leader. Must be at least 21 years old (with no prior felony convictions). Must live or work within the jurisdiction of the field office. Must pass a background investigation: Security clearances must be obtained because part of the curriculum covers investigative techniques used in national security and criminal investigations.

What They Cover

International and domestic terrorism; White collar crime, including identity theft, financial institution fraud, healthcare fraud, and money laundering; Critical infrastructure protection matters; Violent crimes, including bank robbery, crimes against children, fugitives, evidence recovery, and hostage rescue; Electronic surveillance; Firearms safety, SWAT, and deadly force policy; Employment, recruitment, and partnerships; Freedom of Information and Privacy Act.