I want become a detective

Question

Ok, so I'm just a sophomore in high school but i'm trying to prepare for college and choose what I want to major in. I want to be a detective, but first I would like to know what exactly does a detective do and how would I go about becoming one?

Another thing: Someone told me that I would need to be a police officer before becoming a detective; is this true?

Answer 1

Yes.  You will need to spend a minimum of 3-5 years as a patrol officer before being eligible for transfer or promotion to a detective position.

If you don't want to do patrol, don't go into law enforcement.  There is no guarantee that you'll ever get an investigative spot.

Also, why do you want to be a detective if you don't know what they do?

Answer 2

Go to cop school...

Answer 3

watch Inspector Gadget

Answer 4

Yes dear, you must be a police officer first.  In the real world that is the way it works. Get yourself a four year degree in criminal justice first and then you will be prepared to make the move from civilian into the police academy, and if you complete that, you will be on the road to becoming a detective. Be prepared to spend ten or more years as a police officer before you can even think about that detectives shield.