Expert: Dick Rogers - 6/12/2011

Question
I am 28 years old.  I have several college credits (well over 60), but no degree.  I was majoring in Education, but changed my mind.  I now know I would like to become a Police officer.  I am worried that I am getting older and would like to go ahead with my career.  Would it be better to finish my degree (2 years) in criminal justice, or go ahead and start my career finishing my degree as I am working?  I heard some departments will pay for school, is that true?

Answer
Melanie, I'm not aware of departments that pay for candidates schooling as there are many people who apply who do have the four year degree.  I would opt for finishing your schooling (it's just another two or three years) and applying to a large department with that degree in your hand.  I would also find departments that allow ride-a-longs so you can get an idea of what the job entails and this also looks good to specify during your oral interview.  For what it is worth.