PRLEA FAQ
Park Ranger Law Enforcement Academy
When is the next Class?
The next PRLEA starts January 19th, 2027
Do I have to live on campus?
No, there are off campus housing options available in the Rangely, Colorado area.
Once I graduate the PRLEA, am I guaranteed a job with the NPS?
Graduating from the PRLEA qualifies you to apply for seasonal law enforcement Ranger positions with the National Park Service. Getting hired with the NPS is based on numerous variables, such as job openings/availability with the NPS.
Do I have to be a U.S. Citizen to become a seasonal law enforcement Ranger for the NPS?
Yes
How long does the certification last?
The certification is for three years from the date of graduating the PRLEA. During the time period, working as a seasonal law enforcement Ranger re-sets the 3-year certification by starting new from the day of your last employment as a seasonal law enforcement Ranger.
How long does it take to be a permanent law enforcement Ranger for the NPS?
It depends. On average a person who works one to two seasons and performs in an exemplary manner can apply to be a permanent NPS law enforcement Ranger within 2 years of graduating the PRLEA.
Does graduating the PRLEA qualify me to work for other law enforcement agencies?
Yes. In the past numerous law enforcement agencies have considered the PRLEA equivalent to or greater than their Peace Officer Standards and Training requirements and have granted waivers for basic training when employing PRLEA graduates. This determination however is made solely by the employing agency.
What is the age requirement to be a NPS law enforcement Ranger?
21. However, the PRLEA allows persons who are 20 years of age that will be turning 21 while either attending the Academy or shortly after graduation to attend.
Do I have to be in good physical condition to be a Park Ranger Law Enforcement Officer?
Yes, the job requirements and duties of an Park Ranger are arduous and challenging, such as search and rescue, emergency medical aid, backcountry patrols, remote hiking and climbing, long periods of time standing and walking, sometimes performed under adverse weather conditions and climates.
Do I have to pass a physical test to graduate the PRLEA?
Yes. The PRLEA uses the physical efficiency battery (PEB) FLETC guidelines for physical fitness. You can review those requirements here: https://www.fletc.gov/peb-scores
How would attending the PRLEA at CNCC personally benefit me?
The PRLEA at CNCC is an intense law enforcement training program that qualifies you to apply for law enforcement Ranger positions with the National Park Service and opens the doors for you to begin a career in the field of law enforcement with other agencies as well.
The Instructors that invest in you are some of the best in the world and sincerely care about your career, professional and personal development.
Young as well as older individuals who have attended the PRLEA in the past often comment it was a “life changing” experience and one of the best experiences of their life!
Attending the PRLEA you learn so much more than law enforcement methodologies and skills, you learn team work, leadership, cooperation, discipline, work ethic, sacrifice, peer support, compassion, and many other life skills that will follow you for a lifetime in whatever career you pursue!
Where can I find more information?
More information can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/nps-audiovideo/audiovideo/25a1bd13-c375-4d30-ba87-d93b026d2803720p.mp4
Is the academy financial aid eligible?
The academy is financial aid eligible. Please contact Jessica Wollman at 970.824.1125 or jessica.wollman@cncc.edu with questions.
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Information
PRLEA Coordinator
Kathy Kottenstette
Office: 970.675.3337
Email: kathy.kottenstette@cncc.edu