Facilities

Southwestern Illinois Police Academy is located on the campus of Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Illinois Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) is a two year learning institution that is the sixth largest in the state. The college offers 59 associate degree programs that prepare you for a career upon graduation or for transfer to a four-year college or university. It also offers 69 certificates of proficiency that can usually be completed in one year or less. The Belleville Campus Main Complex just completed a two-and-a-half year, $4 million renovation project that includes the Cyber Lounge, an Internet computer lounge for student enjoyment; expanded Computer Labs on the first floor for student class assignments; and a new student lounge for relaxation and studying. The Police Academy has its own set of newly renovated classrooms that is located in the main campus building. Parking lots are heavily patrolled by the campus public safety officers thereby ensuring the integrity of law enforcement equipment and vehicles utilized by the recruits.

The Administration of Justice Program is administered by Police Academy Director Van Muschler. This affiliation allows the recruits to enjoy all the facets of campus life while attending the police academy as well as offering the educational benefits that can be communicated by the Administration of Justice Program. Recruits earn 20.5 hours of college credit upon successful completion of the academy.

The Police Academy has a "Smart" Classroom. "Smart" Classrooms are equipped with white board projection screens and computers with Internet connections so instructors can access information online for classroom use.  Additionally, each recruit has a desktop computer at their work station during class with which to take notes and view instructor and class materials. The 400 hour ILETSB curriculum and all instructor handouts are provided to the recruit via individual flash drive. This allows the recruit to take notes right on the handout material and facilitates the learning process with this interactive medium that can be taken home and used for reference later during their law enforcement career. Each recruit has Internet access and can correspond with their hosting agency if needed. They receive an Internet assignment to facilitate their learning of the investigative tool.

Accommodations for out-of-town recruits

While attending the academy, out of town recruits may elect to stay at the affordable Settle Inn in O'Fallon, Illinois. The Settle Inn O'Fallon offers reasonable accommodations with standard decor. Close to Mid-America airport and Southwestern Illinois College, guests are located only about 19 miles from St. Louis attractions. For onsite recreation, there is an outdoor pool.

Guests receive a free full hot breakfast served to you at our adjacent full service restaurant with their room rate. We also include discounts on lunch or dinner entrees.

Guest services include laundry facilities, ice machines, microwaves, refrigerators, in room safes, oversize parking, and a complimentary morning newspaper.  Each guestroom contains an alarm clock radio, iron, ironing board, telephone with voicemail, desk, and television.

Click here for a map to Settle Inn.