Career Choices : police?

Question

What are the advantages or a job in the police force. Its the job i want to do but i know i could do alot better salary wise. Is it possible to go through the ranks quickly to reach chief inspector level. I would like to help people but the wages arent great.

Answer 1

You will (probably) get good benefits  (health insurance, etc.).

Answer 2

Paid surveys are c**p steer clear of them. :)

Answer 3

I don't know that people typically get into law enforcement for the paycheck as the psychological stress may be so overwhelming ;)  I'm sure that the job can rewarding as well.  The police academy (basically boot camp) is supposed to be both mentally and physically draining too.  

They say 'if you love what you do, you'll never have to work a day in your life' -- to pursue a career that one would do for free :)

For general career info:  http://www.bls.gov/oco and can search 'police and detectives' or whatever other career that piques one's interest.

Answer 4

The salary for a beginning police officer is excellent.  You can also make more with overtime doing traffic control and security for events.  Many officers in our area make over $100K per year.  As far as "going through the ranks quickly", I wouldn't count on it.