I'd like to be a police officer.What's the difference between the police academy & a criminal justice school ?

Question

I'm average shape and have just started to work out like crazy to be more than average...to be fit and have strength, you know.

All the research I've done tells me about going to school for four years and then earning a degree. But I know there's something about a police academy that actually sets you off on your way to be an officer. (Boy, do I want to be an officer!!!!) Can someone explain to me how this works. And is it true that you have to be 21 to be a cop, does that include being 21 while in the academy, or can u start at 19 or 20 years?

Answer 1

The police academy trains you to be a police officer. A criminal justice program teaches you about the criminal justice system, crime, society, theories, etc., etc., and should include some general education as well. Some of what is taught at a police academy is also taught in a criminal justice program and vice-versa. You should get a four year degree if at all possible. It will benefit you when trying to get a police officer job, and it could benefit you after you become a police officer when it comes time for promotion. Some departments pay their officers more if they have a degree. You should get a degree in a field that interests you, but that also could be useful for a police career. Criminal justice, psychology, accounting, and computer science are good examples. Having a degree can truly benefit you. Visit the websites of the police departments that you are interested in working for. Most larger police departments will have their own police academies. If they hire you, they will send you to their academy and pay you while you are in the academy. Check out http://www.peaceofficerjobs.com for excellent information and advice about becoming a police officer. Some states allow you to be a police officer at age 18. However, many departments require you to be 21. Age requirements vary by department.

Answer 2

A course in criminal justice is mostly  theory, while the police academy is more practical, and day to day skills oriented.

Think about it for a second. The Police force is training you to their standards, and to their needs/requirements  for well trained officers. The college  course does  not do that at all. It teaches the academic approach to criminal law and the administration of justice ( the court system ).    

Once you have been trained and are working as a Police officer, then pursue further formal education that will help you to be " promotable ' in your department.

Jim B. Toronto.

Answer 3

If you want to be a police officer get your degree in something other then criminal Justice.  The academy will train you in what you need to know to patrol and work in your department and neighborhood.  God forbid something happens to you and you need something to fall back on.  For example - Kid I know spent his whole life wanting to be a cop.

Tripped over a dog, fell, wedging his foot in a hole in the process.  multiple fractures in his foot.  Permanent disability.  Not even 25 years old.    Your age question? - Here you have to be 21 before you graduate academy.  Check with your civil service or even call the local PD administrative offices.

Answer 4

http://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Police-O...

Go to that link ... it's for teenagers ...but to answer your question

Difference between police n criminal justice is that criminal justice is more like a detective/ forensic ... laywer .. etc  

Answer 5

The difference is you get a degree in one, the academy certifies you to be an officer. The advantage of getting a 4 year degree in criminal justice is that you will gain knowledge in a wide area. Also, the law enforcement field is very competitive right now, so having a degree puts you one step ahead of the other applicants. Most departments send you to the academy once you are hired. The academy will teach you the laws and things such as defensive driving, shooting, etc. You can pay and go to an academy (its usually around $3000), however, if you get hired first they pay the tuition, as well as paying you 1st year police salary while attending. Hope this helps. email me with any questions.