You are here:
Careers: Police/hello
Advertisement
Question
QUESTION: Hello my name is Linda and I'm interested in becoming part of the law enforcement but i want to know what did i need to become part of it? Specially to become part of the F.B.I or the SWAT team!
ANSWER: Linda;
Basically, you have to apply to whichever agency is hiring in your area at the moment. The process is a lengthy one with a complete investigation into your background and education. The FBI requires a 4 year degree to apply. They prefer accounting but will look at anyone with one.
You have to spend years on the street in patrol to try out for SWAT for an agency, they don't hire 'right off the street'.
Best regards,
Jason
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Hello again
This time i want to ask, What did i should get a diploma on for become part of the law enforcement? Because many people told me that i need to study criminal justice and i dont know if that's correct.
Linda:
A criminal justice degree isn't bad, but any degree is a help. I'd personally work on English, journalism, or something along those particular lines, as Police officers do far more writing than kicking down doors, and even those that DO kick in doors, still have to write about it in reports.
Jason
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Jason Grabill
Expertise
General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions
Experience
18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
Organizations
Police Marksman Association
Fraternal Order of Police
Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified.
CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.
Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.