How to Become a Police Officer

People depend on police officers to protect their lives and property. Uniformed police officers have general law enforcement duties, including maintaining regular patrols and responding to calls for service. Some police officers specialize in such diverse fields as chemical and microscopic analysis, training and firearms instruction, or handwriting and fingerprint identification. Others work with special units, such as horseback, bicycle, motorcycle or harbor patrol; canine corps; special weapons and tactics (SWAT); or emergency response teams.

Becoming a police officer is attractive to many because the job is challenging and involves much personal responsibility. Furthermore, law enforcement officers in many agencies may retire with a pension after 25 or 30 years of service, allowing them to pursue a second career while still in their 40s or 50s.

Because of relatively attractive salaries and benefits, the number of qualified candidates exceeds the number of job openings in Federal law enforcement agencies and in most State police departments - resulting in increased hiring standards and selectivity by employers. Applicants with college training in police science, military police experience, or both should have the best opportunities.

Read More: Quiz: Would you make a good Police Officer?

The following schools offer law enforcementdegrees which can help you gain the skills to become a Police Officer:

South University Online

Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement)
Prepare to protect the public and serve on the front lines of homeland security by learning about law enforcement operations, criminal law and investigation, and terrorism and homeland security. full degree description

A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement

Kaplan University Online - This Web based program provides a solid foundation in the areas of law enforcement, courts, corrections, and security. full degree description

Advanced Start B.S. in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement

Kaplan University Online - The Law Enforcement emphasis will prepare to start or advance a career in a police department or criminal investigations. As a graduate you may qualify for advanced positions within police departments and other law enforcement agencies. full degree description

M.S. in Criminal Justice/Policing

Kaplan University Online - The Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Policing will help prepare you to pursue high-level opportunities in law enforcement, security, court systems, education, and training. full degree description

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Find out more about your criminal justice degree online.