Expert: Loren Stevens - 2/1/2008

Question
In a recent post I noted you said 'it's good you don't have a CJ degree believe it or not'.... Is it that they are viewed as too common, too general??

Thank you and I enjoy reading all the Q&As here.

TJ

Answer
Hello TJ,
I don't remember the context of what you refer to, but maybe I should comment anyhow.
Any higher education is better than no higher education. That, is a given.
I think, and it's simply my opinion....that a 2 year or 4 year CRJ degree has limited value in street police work.
Clearly, there are those who would argue this point, and they're opinion is to be valued too.
It's just been my experience, that there is so very much theory being taught, and less on practical application.
Typically, these educators would say for students to go to a trade school, or community college if they wanted "practical application".
I just don't know where theory has much utilitarian value, at 3 in the morning in a dark alley with a possible suspect.
It just depends on what you want out of your education, and what you think it will do for you both long term, and short term.
Also, when you consider most professors are probably not too experienced in street police work, they too are limited by what they have heard, or read about.
Maybe that is why so many of them stick to theory????
In the real world, I suggest you need a blend of both schools, in order to best fulfill your potential.
Good Luck,
Regards,loren