Expert: Loren Stevens - 8/11/2007

Question
Hello,
     I am currently serving in the United States Air Force as a firefighter. I have always wanted to pursue a career in LE. I have 2 years left on my enlistment. I understand that it would be smart of me to finish my college and receive a degree in LE. Is it possible for me to obtain a job on a local or metropolitan Police Officer if I do not have a degree? I know this sounds like a simple question, but I would rather have a direct answer from someone who is qualified in this field. Thank you for your service and your time.

Answer
Hello Tyler,
First off, permit me to thank you for your military service, and personal sacrifice. Having served my self (Marines) I know that it takes a bite out of your life, and it was something you did on your own volition.
Your firefighter training and experience will serve you well in police work. I'm sure you've had an abundance of first aid training, safety issues, structural matters, accellerants, explosives, chemical and hazmat issues, plus "first responder" functions.
Much of what you already possess would have a utilitarian value in police service, along with specialized assignments where cross-training is of value, e.g.., SWAT, traffic enforcement etc.
As for finishing college while in the service. That's all well and good, and can't help but be favorable to you when applying for police.
The reality is, that only about 10% of applicants get hired. Then, "X" % of those don't make it through the background, academy, field problems, FTO (field training) period, and through the standard probationary period.
That said, the applicant who has the most/best "stuff" to put on the table, stands the best chance of being hired.
With few exceptions, most city, county and state law enforcement or regulatory agencies do not require more than a HS or GED education. There are a number of exceptions, but you can easily find that out by inquiry to any agencies' s human resource personnel.
Again, the more initiative you take, to make yourself a more attractive candidate, the better it works in your favor.
You might consider consulting with your military career counselor about a secondary MOS, where you can attain LE training and certification while still in. Many times they will cross train. This is generally required for those interested in Arson investigations, where they essentially wear 2 hats, and need expertise in both fields of police and fire.
Also, keep in mind, that most agencies will reimburse employees who attend college...tuition.
This is for classes earning a "C" or better. This amounts to a scholarship.
I wouldn't recommend taking any college classes while on probation, or the first 2 years on the job. Your dance card will be plenty full during this period, and you'll want to focus on learning good fundamentals, gaining confidence, distinguishing yourself at the entry level service.
After that, hit college, study for promotions etc.
Also, I'd make sure what ever college classes you take prior to being an officer, be ABSOLUTELY transferable to a 4 year program at a university.
Many of those two year programs have classes and electives that are kind of useless, in terms of other broader academic perspectives.
A Community College will typically cost about 1/2 half of what it costs at a University. So, taking lower division, undergraduate courses at a CC kind of makes sense to me...providing they all transfer.
Work on upper body strength, hand strength, and endurance.
Learn and understand the Bill of Rights, especially the 4th, 5th, and 14th amendments. Maybe the 1st as well.
Learn and understand the "use of force continuum", be able to intelligently discuss use of deadly force in the performance of duty.
Study Rules of evidence, Laws of arrest etc.
SEARCH and SEIZURE are biggies.
One more thing, Many/most federal LE agencies will require college degree. And, there are an abundance of agencies besides the usual ones you think of in the DOJ, or Treasury.
Civilian DOD where your years in the service count for retirement is a consideration.
Lastly,
Go up on a contemporary agency web site, and you'll derive a ton of information, and a means for inquiry.
Try: "The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department" Las Vegas NV.
Good Luck, Regards, and "keep your powder dry"
loren