Colorado Mesa University's Western Colorado Law Enforcement Academy (WCLEA) in Montrose has been ranked the No. 2 law enforcement academy in Colorado based on 2025 statewide average Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) examination scores, marking a significant milestone for the academy and its commitment to preparing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
“The #2 ranking is very exciting and a testament to the fantastic instructors who strive to set our Western Colorado Law Enforcement Academy cadets up for success on the Colorado POST exam and their future careers,” said WCLEA Director and Professional Standards Sergeant Courtney Jones. “My hope is that when prospective students or law enforcement agencies are researching Colorado's police academy programs, our ranking will lead them to consider CMU Tech for their POST academy needs.”
The annual rankings compare the average scores of cadets from 28 POST academies across Colorado. The Western Colorado Law Enforcement Academy has steadily climbed statewide rankings over the past three years, improving from fifth place in 2023 to third in 2024 before earning the top spot in 2025.
The academy's success extends beyond its statewide ranking. Since 2023, every cadet who has completed the academy has passed the Colorado POST certification examination on their first attempt, maintaining a 100% first-time pass rate over the past three years.
Across the 2023–2025 reporting period, academy graduates achieved an average POST examination score of 86%, underscoring the program's consistent academic excellence and rigorous training standards.
“Scenario-based training brings real-life context to topics students learn about from lectures and reading. I believe this has played a role in our above-average test scores,” Jones added. “Over the course of the summer, instructors guide students through increasingly complex scenarios to expose them to the types of situations they will face in their careers, while still maintaining a safe, controlled and constructive learning environment. This is made possible through the contributions of experienced law enforcement professionals from the Montrose Police Department, Montrose County Sheriff's Office, and other government and emergency service providers who teach at our academy, develop scenarios and act as role players.”
The WCLEA prepares future peace officers through comprehensive classroom instruction, practical skills training and scenario-based learning designed to meet the evolving needs of law enforcement agencies throughout western Colorado and the state. The academy works closely with regional law enforcement partners to ensure graduates are equipped to serve their communities from day one.
As demand for highly trained public safety professionals continues to grow, the academy's top statewide ranking further demonstrates Colorado Mesa University's commitment to developing a skilled workforce that strengthens communities across Colorado.
Learn more about WCLEA.