Expert: Dick Rogers - 10/12/2010

Question
hi im 18 years old and I graduated high school in june. I wanted to know if you have to go to college to become a police officer?

Answer
Laquan, there is no question that a college degree will put you in a good position when applying.  Most people entering law enforcement today to indeed have a college degree, so not having one will put you at a disadvantage.  It also helps when promotion time comes around.  I can almost guarantee you that without a degree, you will not ascend up the promotional ladder.  If you cannot afford to go to college, you might consider the military as you can manage to get your degree while in the service and they basically pay for the thing. Good luck.