• Positions
  • Deputies
  • Special Events Patrol
  • Public Safety Officers
  • Community Service Officers
• Deputy Profiles
• Recruitment Process
• FAQs

1. Are the Stanford University deputies real police?
2. How is working for the Stanford University Department of Public Safety different from working for other local law enforcement agencies?
3. How do I apply for a position with the Stanford University Department of Public Safety?
4. How long does the application process take?
5. The Minimum Requirements for deputy mandate that I have 45 (semester) / 60 (quarter) college units when I apply. Are there any exceptions to this (eg. previous experience in the military, etc.)?
6. Will my military experience count in lieu of college units?
7. I am not a U.S. citizen but can legally work in the U.S. Can I still apply?
8. Is there a height and weight requirement to become an Stanford deputy sheriff?
9. I've already attended a police academy. Can I be hired as a "Direct Entry"?
10. Can I apply as a lateral candidate for the SUDPS?
11. A position I'm interested in is currently closed. Can I still turn in an application?
12. Do you accept T-Scores?

Q: Are the Stanford University deputies real police?

A: Yes. It is real police work. The Stanford Deputy Sheriffs derive their peace officer authority through a Memorandum of Understanding between the University and the Sheriff of Santa Clara County. This agreement provides for the deputization of Stanford officers as sworn peace officers, having full law enforcement powers to make arrests and enforce State laws and county ordinances.

Q: How is working for the Stanford University Department of Public Safety different from working for other local law enforcement agencies?

A: The combination of visiting dignitaries, major athletic events and other special events at Stanford University provide law enforcement opportunities not commonly found in most municipal departments. Furthermore, working at Stanford University provides unique opportunities to interact with students and scholars in a rich academic setting.

Q: How do I apply for a position with the Stanford University Department of Public Safety?

A: Go to Employment on the Stanford police website and follow the instructions for the appropriate position.

Q: How long does the application process take?

A: The typical hiring process takes approximately 6 months.

Q: The Minimum Requirements for deputy mandate that I have 45 (semester) / 60 (quarter) college units when I apply. Are there any exceptions to this (eg. previous experience in the military, etc.)?

A: All minimum requirements are just that - requirements. This is to ensure a consistent standard of excellence for all our law enforcement personnel. All necessary college units must be completed before you submit an application. There are no exceptions.

Q: Will my military experience count in lieu of college units?

A: There are no exceptions to the minimum educational requirement. However, be sure to check your military training file to see how many college units you have accrued during military training.

Q: I am not a U.S. citizen but can legally work in the U.S. Can I still apply?

A: All applicants must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship (Per California Government Code Section 1031).

Q: Is there a height and weight requirement to become an Stanford deputy sheriff?

A: We do not have a height and weight requirement. Applicants are required to pass our 1.5 mile run and physical agility course. They are then required to pass a medical examination. Any applicant who passes these tests can be considered for hire.

Q: I've already attended a police academy. Can I be hired as a "Direct Entry"?

A: The SUDPS does not have a Direct Entry hiring program. All of our officers are hired as Police Officer Recruits or Lateral Police Officers. All Police Officer Recruits are required to attend the Police Academy at our cost. Police Officer Recruits are eligible for benefits, as well.

Q: Can I apply as a lateral candidate for the SUDPS?

A: You may apply as a lateral candidate if you meet the following qualifications only:

• Possess a California Basic P.O.S.T. certificate or Basic Course waiver attained through California P.O.S.T. (This is not a P.O.S.T. academy graduation certificate)
• 21 years of age.
• Possess a U.S. high school diploma or G.E.D. (Waived if you possess a 2-year or 4-year degree from a college/university accredited by Western Association of Colleges and Universities.)
• Completed at least 60 semester units or 90 quarter units from an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Completed an F.T.O. program and 1 year of patrol exerience.

Q: A position I'm interested in is currently closed. Can I still turn in an application?

A: Do not apply for a closed position. It will not be accepted.

Q: Do you accept T-Scores?

A: No, T-Scores are not accepted in lieu of participating in the physical agility & written examination.