Law Enforcement Degree Programs

What do you study in a law enforcement program?

The majority of employers in this field require an associates or bachelors degree.  Courses are taken in legal issues, human behavior, psychology, investigation techniques, supervision, computers and related subjects.

A Criminal Justice Bachelor’s degree, that specializes in investigation and law enforcement is especially relevant for a career as a law enforcement officer.  However, any of the degrees in the list above are desirable and will open many doors in this field.  Some agencies will hire a person with a high school diploma or GED who takes classes to receive certification.  There are continual upgrading courses through a person’s career aimed at professional development and improved training.

What are the requirements for the job?

With the many different law enforcement jobs a person with this degree would be able to obtain, there are some basic expectations.  A graduate of law enforcement should be able to deal in human relations in a calm and collected manner, know the law and how to apply it, as well as have training to defend themselves or others in a critical situation.  If working as a police detective they should know how to handle a crime scene and collect evidence, as well as know how to present evidence in a court of law if required.  They would be expected to know how to handle a firearm and know when it should or should not be used. There is usually additional on-the-job training, depending on what position one secures.

When applying for any of these positions there will be a written examination as well as a physical one. Anyone entering this field needs to be in good physical condition and almost all police departments require further law enforcement training, with some having their own training academy. This training would include working with firearms, reviewing the law, practicing emergency situations and other events that might occur as an officer.

What jobs and salaries can you get as graduate of law enforcement?

Salaries for these positions is very good but do vary from state to state. Average salaries go from $44,160 to $80,000 depending on rank and experience. Some places, such as the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and California reported salaries in the $100,000 range, with Illinois and Nevada reporting $89,000. Salaries, as stated, depend on the state and the position but, in any case, it is a very good and secure job to have.

In addition to the salary there are many benefits in this position. Common benefits are sick leave, paid vacation, medical and life insurance and retirement plans. Some departments have allowances for such things as uniforms. In addition, a good number have a pension plan that allows one to retire at half pay after 25-30 years of service.

The law enforcement careers available for a person with a relevant degree are many. There are jobs such as Home Land Security, Correctional Officers, US Transportation Security, Customs, Border Patrol, US Immigration, Law Enforcement, Guards and many more. A visit to the Internet Bureau of Labor Statistics site will show thousands of places where a degree in this field would apply.

There is a constant demand for people with this type of education. Federal and State law enforcement agencies have more competition for positions than local ones do. The expected employment growth is 11% by 2016. Obtaining a degree in law enforcement online is the way to qualify for one of these excellent jobs while fulfilling a community and national need.