What Degree Does a Police Officer Need?
Becoming a police officer requires a combination of education, training, and experience. While there is no specific degree required to become a police officer, having a degree can certainly be beneficial in advancing your career and increasing your job prospects.
What Degree Can Help?
While a specific degree is not required, having a degree in a related field can be advantageous. Some of the most common degrees held by police officers include:
• Criminal Justice: A degree in criminal justice can provide a strong foundation in law enforcement, criminal behavior, and the legal system.
• Criminology: Criminology degrees focus on the study of crime and its causes, as well as the criminal justice system.
• Law Enforcement: Law enforcement degrees provide training in the principles and practices of law enforcement, including policing, investigation, and emergency response.
• Policing: Policing degrees focus specifically on the study of law enforcement and the role of police officers in society.
High School Diploma: The Minimum Requirement
In most cases, the minimum educational requirement to become a police officer is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many police departments require a higher level of education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Associate’s Degree: A Common Path
Many police officers hold an associate’s degree, which typically takes two years to complete. An associate’s degree in a field such as criminal justice or law enforcement can provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices of law enforcement.
Bachelor’s Degree: The Next Step
A bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years to complete, can be beneficial for police officers looking to advance their careers. A bachelor’s degree can provide a more in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system, as well as training in areas such as leadership, management, and communication.
Master’s Degree: The Highest Level of Education
A master’s degree, which typically takes two to three years to complete, can provide advanced training in areas such as criminal justice, criminology, or public administration. A master’s degree can be beneficial for police officers looking to advance to higher-level positions or pursue a career in criminal justice administration.
What Courses Are Typically Required?
Police officers typically require a combination of core courses and elective courses to earn their degree. Some of the most common courses include:
• Criminal Law: A study of the laws that govern criminal behavior and the criminal justice system.
• Criminal Procedure: A study of the procedures used to investigate and prosecute crimes.
• Law Enforcement: A study of the principles and practices of law enforcement, including policing, investigation, and emergency response.
• Criminology: A study of the causes and consequences of crime, as well as the criminal justice system.
• Policing Strategies: A study of the various strategies used by police officers to prevent and reduce crime.
What Certifications Are Available?
In addition to a degree, police officers may also require certifications to advance their careers. Some of the most common certifications include:
• Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST): A certification that requires police officers to complete a training program and pass a written and physical abilities test.
• Certified Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO): A certification that requires police officers to complete a training program and pass a written and physical abilities test.
• Advanced Peace Officer Standards and Training (APOST): A certification that requires police officers to complete additional training and pass a written and physical abilities test.
Conclusion
While a specific degree is not required to become a police officer, having a degree can certainly be beneficial in advancing your career and increasing your job prospects. Police officers typically require a combination of education, training, and experience to advance their careers.
