How do I become a homicide detective or major case detective or special victims detective?

Question

I'm going to college next year and earn my degree in C.J. I am taking more of those classes than anything else. I just need to know what i need to do in order to get into the detective bureau.

I also know i need to be a P.O. for sometime before i can take the test

Answer 1

first you need to become a street cop and prove yourself on the minor cases before you even think about become a major case type of detective.. good luck

Answer 2

Reconsider majoring in C.J. Major in something that will help you in th police field e.g. Sociology, Business, Economics. Those type of degrees will look better on your application because you are knowledgeable in another area. Plus, once you enter the academy you will take a Intro to Criminal Justice, Criminology.

In order to be a detective, you must become a patrol officer for at least two years depending on the agency. You will have to be at least 20 years old to start the application process in most areas. The process to become a police officer is: Written Test: A test usually to test your basic vocabulary. A physical agility test to make sure you physically fit to become a police officer. A background investigation where the investigator checks your employment history, credit history, driving history, criminal activity. You will be asked to do a Personal History Statement. Then, you will have to do a oral board interview where you must persuade a panel of officers, Lt's,Sgt's etc. why they should hire you. Usually they asked history of the agency you applying for, why should they hire you , and you will be asked a series of hypothetical questions.  Another part of the application process is polygraph which they confirm everything you said in you background investigation and your personal history statement. Then, you will be asked to do a psychological test which will determine if you are mentally and emotionally stable to wihthold the stress of the job of law enforcement.

After all the steps are completed, you will be asked to attend an academy. After the academy you will be placed in Field Training which lasts from 10-18 weeks depending on the agency. Usually you will be a probationary officer for at least 18months.

So yeah, it is a lot to do and a long road. Remember that the hardest part is getting hired. Go to your local PD website and see what you can find, or you can talk to a police recruiter which he or she can give more info.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

I don't think you have researched this issue,it takes a long time to be a Homicide Detective, you need to take some Criminal Science class also.Good Luck!! It's a good field.