Frequently Asked Security Training Questions

Find the answers to your frequently asked questions about Pacific West Academy’s security training programs.

Learn about financial aid, veterans benefits, job placement and more.

Find the answers to your frequently asked security training questions. If you didn’t, call us at (818) 906-3753 for those or any other questions.

Q: Where is the academy located?

PWA is located in California, Los Angeles area. Our main campus address:
16117 Covello St.
Van Nuys, CA. 91406

Q: How long is the course?

The Certified Executive Security Specialist Program includes 39 days of training spread out within 10 weeks.

Q: How much of the GI Bill will the course use and total prices for the course?

The CESS Program tuition cost is $15,800 which is equivalent to 7 months and 29 days of Post 911 GI benefits.

Q: What is included and/or provided by the academy once accepted into the course?

“Any textbook costs, equipment fees, application fees, cost of ammunition, facility use, certifications, etc. affiliated with the course curriculum are included with the listed rate for the course.”

Q: Is their job placement assistance for out-of-state students not from CA?

Yes, we want to ensure all students have an opportunity of finding gainful employment. Most security companies that we have connections with, work nationwide and may have work opportunities in other states.

Q: What if I need any additional security licenses in my state (not CA) like my Guard Card & Firearms?

PWA will help and assist you with the necessary certifications once verified and cover any additional fee that’s associated.

Q: Is travel paid for by the school?

No, the school does not cover travel or transportation expenses.

Q: Is lodging provided by the school?

Yes, lodging is provided to students during the duration of the course.

Q: Would I have to move to CA in order to work in EP?

No, you will not need to move to CA in order to work EP. We will help assist you with employment opportunities in the state you choose to reside in.

Q: Do I need to have military experience?

No, military experience is not required.

Our Students Say

I just wanted to thank you for giving me the opportunity to attend your CPR course. I know your focus is primarily training bodyguards but as a mother of two I wanted to learn CPR 'just in case.' I never realized there was such a difference between CPR for adults and CPR for infants. I now feel comfortable that if something bad were to happen I have the ability to do CPR. Thank you again.

Larissa Courpus Christi, TX

I just want to say thank you to ASC for everything. After I graduated I got a call from ****** Security about my interview that I had with them on the last day of school. They said that the skill set and training I received from ASC (along with my military background) place me far beyond the average person who applied for a job with their company. And because of that they want to hire me not as a security guard, but as a shift supervisor. I couldn't believe it. One of my fears about starting my career and security was that I would graduate from training and not receive any job offers. However since graduating ASC I've been offered two jobs (one as a supervisor and one as a guard) and the pay for both are great. The money I'm going to start making is way more than what I was before so for that I want to say thank you. It was because of you guys that my life changed course and now the possibilities are ever-changing. Be sure to pass my thanks to Connor, Omer, Ryan, Jake, Ian, Steve and the rest of the guys.

Jovidean Sun Valley, CA

As a former law enforcement officer I thought I had a pretty good understanding of what it would take to be a good Executive Protection Specialist but it's a whole different ball game when you don't have the weight of a badge behind you. Although this course was basically fundamentals, I felt it helped bridge the gap between my experience as a law enforcement officer and the EP field. Although I had done a lot of similar range work before I found the firearms portion of the course work to be very professional and well executed and could see how this would be a great course for someone new to the field. Thanks for a great course.

Josh Huntington Beach, CA

I've been in Executive Protection here in LA since returning from a tour in Iraq in 2005. I think a lot of people who are interested in this field are under the misconception that being a cop, soldier or bouncer will give them all the tools they need to be effective in the EP field. Far from it. These jobs may provide a foundation but they don't provide a true understanding of the dynamics of Executive Protection. Your course was a good introduction to the ins and outs (and potential pitfalls) of EP work. Whether or not someone is new to the field or, like me, just trying to maintain perishable skills, I highly recommend this course.

Don Los Angeles, CA