Expert: Loren Stevens - 11/11/2007

Question
I have a few questions to ask about a number of things.

1) type of degree to get? (I was told not to get a CJ degree because the FBI looks down on that.

2) What should i put in my resume'?

This is what I've done so far. I am a US Marine going on a 2nd deployment to Iraq.  So Combat Arms Experience isn't my biggest concern. I have some college but only when time permits. Being a marine isn't easy but what I was going to do is this:

Go into the Marine reserve and head to 4th ANGLICO (Air Naval Gunfire Liasion Company) and do Army Ranger School, S.E.R.E (Survival Evasion Resistience and Escape) then also do Jump School. Once completed, I should be done with my one year probation and be able to start working on my degree and try out for the Sheriff Dept. SWAT. Then once I receive my degree send in an application to the FBI and try to be a Special Agent then go the HRT ( Hostage Rescue Team) route.

Now, do you have any advice to give as far as my plan goes? I mean I have a year til I get out and once I return home from Iraq in October of 08 I want to get started ASAP. So any advice you can give or direction would be helpful!

Thanks again!

Cpl Watkins Robert
USMC
SEMPER FI

Answer
Hello Robert,
I don't want to speak for the FBI, as you may want to go up on their site and get the straight scoop.
As I recall, the FBI used to prefer a law degree, or accounting. However, I would think they are open to other disciplines as well, depending on their needs.
I can tell you with a measure of certainty, they would not "look down" on any higher learning. It just depends on what they need. Prior law enforcement with a degree has been accepted in the past, as has other variances. But a minimum of a 4 year degree is mandatory, as I recall.
If you had a 4 year degree in animal husbandry, but could read, write and speak Russian, Farsi,or Chinese etc, I think you'd get a shot....just an opinion.
I don't know what the utilitarian value of a resume would be at this juncture. I think you fill out a basic and preliminary application form. If you meet the minimum criteria, you'll advance to the next level of interest in their protocol.
As for a degree. It depends on what you are interested in. I always encourage folks to go for a double major...no miner. And, I encourage two fields that compliment each other e.g., pre-law/accounting, English/speech, any of the behavioral sciences.
Written and oral communications are ALWAYS an asset.
As far as your plan, it looks as if you have a direction in mind.
I wouldn't make SWAT or HRT, the end all goal. Believe me when I tell you, that if you complete a career in law enforcement, the vast majority of that time will not be in SWAT.
I would target for entry level service if I were you, be it SO, PD, state, or FBI.
Get proficient and distinguish yourself at the entry levels, and it'll make you a more attractive candidate for a special assignment when you are eligable, and off probation.
Which ever way you go, the likelihood of garnering a special assignment in less than 6 years, is remote.
That's just my "ball-park" guesstimate.
Also, for local police work, only about 10% of applicants get hired. More fall out during the training phase.
You might also consider other agencies. There are several in the federal areas. DOJ biggies is FBI and DEA, and others, Treasury department has a bunch. And, about every department in the federal government enjoys a law enforcement component, plus a whole bunch of Inspector's General offices.
Work on your computer skills when ever you get a chance.
Try to study some Constitutional law, especially the first ten amendments, and 14th amendment.
Laws of arrest, rules of evidence are all worthwhile in ANY aspect of law enforcement.
Naturally, your primary focus is what you'll be dealing with over seas.
From an old Vietnam vet, I wish you well. I was with 3/7, and 3/1, as a 2533...which no longer exists!hahaha.
Hope this is helpful to you.
Good Luck, and regards,
Keep your powder dry.
loren
Semper Fi