Police Officers out there?!?

Question

Alright, I'm 16 years old now, and entering my sophomore year of high school, I don't know if I'm a little to young to be thinking about this but whatever. To work for a local police department, not a state police force. Do you have to have a collage degree? Do you have to attend the police academy? I know you have to have a high school diploma but I was wondering about some of the other things, all help is appreciated.

Answer 1

College and certification requirements are established by the state, but other requirements can vary quite a bit between departments.

Most larger and mid-sized departments have a web site with recruiting information. Pick a agency you may be interested in, and do a search.

The requirements for any department can be separated into two categories: Education and certification

Education- This can be anything from a high school diploma to a four year degree, depending on the state.

Certification- This is police-specific training such as firearms, use of force, emergency vehicle operation, etc. This is done at a police academy, or a technical college that offers a criminal justice program.

Only the larger departments have their own academy, you may have to go to a technical college in your area for the certification.

Answer 2

You would have to ask the department you're interested in about any college requirement. Some do. And you should ask if they run their own academy, send you to a state or regional academy, or if they only consider people who are already licensed.

College is always good, even if not required. You may also want to think about a junior college that offers an associate degree program in criminal justice. In many states, that satisfies the academy requirement, all but the firearms portion, and that is offered separately.  

Answer 3

Get a degree and go Federal, better benefits and low health insurance costs and good retirement.

Making traffic stops, constantly fighting someone and interfering in family squabbles can get you killed or maimed real quick.