Expert: Loren Stevens - 7/20/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

Im 17 years old and a senior in North Carolina.  My dream is to go into law enforcement or special operations. I was just wondering what should I do to better my chances or prepare me for SWAT and the Hostage Team for the FBI. What education requirements and college course I should take?

ANSWER: Hello Kamaal,
I urge you to review some of my previous Q&A on this subject.
Also, if the FBI is your goal, you would be wise to inquire there for the particulars you seek.
Generally, and to my best recollection, you'll need a BS or BA degree. They seem to prefer a law degree, and accounting degree as well. There are other ways that may be available, such as skills and experience in demand. Prior police experience with a degree (4 year) used to be acceptable.
Competition is keen for most good agencies. Along with education requirements, you'll be examined for honesty, character etc.
Many agencies have a SWAT unit. And, I am reasonably certain that you'll have to distinguish yourself at the entry levels prior to even being considered. You'll have to go through their academy, be on probation for a period of time, and essentially accomplish some goal(s) attainment prior to advancing a request for a specialized assignment.
Keep in mind, many of those you will be competing with for a SWAT position will have had prior military experience, and some of those with prior combat experience.
On top of that, some may even be prior special ops forces, e.g.., SEAL's, Force Recon, Special Forces/Rangers etc.
And, you could do yourself good, by accumulating expertise in a variety of areas: medical, comm, firearms, long bore, negotiator skills, chemical munitions, repelling et al.....
For openers, work on your upper body strength, endurance, and hand strength.
Work at being a good officer/agent first. SWAT, or about any other specialized assignment is usually NOT a career position.
Hope this is helpful,
Good Luck,
loren

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I am in JROTC, although I am not thinking about going into the military, I have repelled and done other things but where can I learn about firearms, negotiating and other areas?  I will be taking medical courses and psychology so I feel I will be a step ahead.

Answer
Hello Kamaal,
You may want to focus on the academic requirements for now. Much of the other training, is what you would have access to after you get hired.
Hostage, and barricaded suspect negotiations are classes usually taught by law enforcement agencies, or specialized training companies.
Centers like FBI at Quantico, and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center at Brunswick GA(FLETC) would also offer this type training for those who are employed with a LE agency.
For some firearms training. I'd start with a local NRA assoc chapter. And, there must be some in-door ranges there, who would have suggestions on training. Most have instructors in-house, or on call.
Try to take courses that you will have access to, and that make more sense at this juncture of your plans.
Hit the academia, and stay in shape. Consider some martial arts training too.
Focus and determination will serve you well.
Good Luck.
loren