Would it be smart for me to finish college and then try to become an officer?

Question

I'm currently at Frostburg State University in western Maryland pursuing a bachelor's degree. I'm aware however that if I decide to join the police academy, they will pay for my schooling. So is it almost pointless for me to finish college? Am I delaying for no reason? Will it benefit me to have that degree knowing my career path is one that many have traveled without having one? Thanks for the help.

Answer 1

I concur with the above.  Get the degree.  Your BS is very important for a number of reasons.  Promotions are often given to those with education first, so the BS will help your advancement.

Completing your degree will be helpful if you ever have to testify in court, especially as an expert witness.  Defense lawyers look for anything to discredit a prosecution witness.  If he finds out you dropped out of college, he will exploit that.  Right or wrong, it happens.

Law enforcement is a physical job.  What happens if you get seriously hurt or seriously injured on or off the job?  You will need to find a new career.  Your degree (and the knowledge) will be useful.

I say get your degree.  A good department will hold your Academy slot and let you finish.

Good Luck.

Answer 2

I asked my husband, a retired law enforcement officer. His degree in criminology greatly increased his advancement. His promotions came rapidly because he had knowledge and education in the field. He said to tell you to get your degree, then apply for the police academy.  

Answer 3

I agree with Jeanie. Get your degree. You are already there in college, why break it up now, then finishing up at a later date! Do it while your mind is clear, going to the Police Academy now might muddy up your thoughts! Just remember to stay fit, you are going to need that when you become a cadet! Perhaps, if my son had gone to college first, he may not have had a hard time with his spelling!! LOL! I know that sounds silly, but it's important when it comes to writing up reports! I would give him ten words a day on a recorder to learn while driving to the Academy, and I even helped him with his research, not to mention the Penal Code books! Maybe I should have taken the course! But, he did ok, and has been on the Force for 27 years!! The Academy will still be there when you get your degree and so will Baltimore!! Good luck and God Bless!