Join the MPD Team
We are currently taking applications now for two different academies:
- No Experience - For those without law enforcement experience, our full academy is scheduled to begin in late May, 2023.
- Lateral - for those who are already working in law enforcement, we will be offering an accelerated academy scheduled to begin at the end of November, 2022.
Laterals/Accelerated Academy - The Madison Police Department is currently recruiting for an "accelerated" academy exclusively for veteran police officers (i.e., officers with three or more years of continuous and full-time law enforcement experience in patrol).
As a veteran police officer you would attend our accelerated Academy, (taught in-house by MPD Training Staff, non-residential, Monday-Friday, 8a-4p, with full pay and benefits provided) following the academy you would participate in a condensed field training program before moving seamlessly to a position in Patrol Services.
The current starting salary as of May, 2022 is $62,782. Please visit our website to learn more about our hiring process and to download an application.
- Fully funded pension - the Wisconsin Retirement System ranks #8 in the country and #25 in the world
- Qualified immunity state, Wisconsin recognizes the qualified immunity standard for law enforcement officers
- Our accelerated academy will prepare you to take the State of Wisconsin reciprocity exam
- Education incentive pay
- Tuition Reimbursement program
- City funded annual uniform allowance
- 16.5 vacations days a year to start
- Voluntary overtime opportunities are available after the completion of field training
- Rebound Program - Whether injured on or off duty, they will facilitate getting you a medical appointment within 24-48 hours, or into a specialist within 72 hours of diagnosis. This program extends to your immediate family as well.
- Our most recent Union Contact can be found here.

Timothy Patton
Captain of Training
Find Your Blue Calling!
We are looking for passionate, dynamic problem-solvers committed to serving the our community with integrity, empathy, and pride. We want officers that are critical thinkers, enjoy problem-solving, and reflect the diversity of our community.
We can give officers tools and training, but it all starts with the people we hire.
August 4, 2021 1:49 PM
We are currently accepting applications for our 2022 academy. If you would like to be considered for our next testing session, applications must be received by September 1, 2021. Instructions are provided on our website at: http://www.cityofmadison.com/police/jointeam/
June 18, 2021 8:54 AM
Do you have a desire to serve your community through a rewarding career in law enforcement? Join recruiters from agencies throughout Dane County to talk about your future career! This outdoor event will take place at the Madison Area Technical College Protective Services Building parking lot …
May 4, 2021 9:50 AM
This summer and fall, join us for an exclusive "Getting to know YOUR MPD" virtual series, featuring Training and Recruiting Sergeant, Theresa Magyera while she gives you a closer look at officers at the Madison Police Department. Interested in joining the team? Visit our website at …