Expert: Loren Stevens - 3/21/2007

Question
hi how are you, well I am writting to ask how long does it tke to finish this career in college? And I also wanted to know if there are any high schools that have speacial programs/activities that can relate to this?  

Answer
Hello Michelle,
I am fine, thank you for asking.
How long it takes to finish ANY field of study, is about like asking how long it takes to climb a hill.
It depends on how steadfast you are, how fast you go, and absent any external distractions etc.
It varies Michelle, it really does.
Then, it depends on what kind of school you are thinking about. Many Colleges offer a two year AA (Associates) degree in police science. Major colleges and Universities tend to address four year degrees in Criminal Justice.
I am not a counselor for higher education, but I'll advance some opinions you may find helpful.
Most law enforcement agencies offer their employees a modified scholarship of sorts, in that they will reimburse tuition costs for earned grades of "C" or better. This is very helpful, for those who have a modest means of attending school.
The caveat there, is that you must be a full time employee. As a police officer, the first two years on the job, you just don't have the time to embrace any other demands, as you already have plenty to learn and do.
After that, you can chip away at college going 1/2 time, or what ever you can manage. Then, it's ALL about "time management" as you'll be doing shift work, overtime, extraordinary training demands, court testimony et al.
Also, consider attending a community college for the first two years, taking only CORE classes, that ABSOLUTELY will transfer to a four year school of study. The cost, is about 1/2.
The cost of books is an expense you'll have to absorb, without reimbursement...usually.
When you get to a four year college or university, consider going for a double major, no minor. This gives you equal strength in two areas, and essentially amounts to having two seperate degrees, for a difference of maybe 9+credits.
Consider two fields of study that compliment each other, eg., Pre law and criminal justice, Criminal  Justice and a behavioral science, or political science etc.
For electives, go for plenty or written and oral comm classes, as it will help you in about everything.
Now, you may want to consider hiring on a law enforcement agency prior to being old enough to be an officer/agent. Many agencies have positions like: cadet, courier, transport etc. Contact the personnel department of the agency you fancy, and inquire about such matters. There, you can gain seniority, learn the agency, subdivisions, "who's-who" structure/function distributions etc.
AND, you'll probably qualify to enjoy the tuition reimbursement initiatives.
Probably be able to sit in on some police classes too.
I don't know of many, if any, high schools that feature any law enforcement oriented schooling. I've heard of after school groups like BOY scout Eagle scout police troop, and the likes, but that's about it.
I'd recommend you focus on English, written and oral communications, social sciences, foreign language, if that is a desirable skill to have in your jurisdiction for police etc.
Study the US Constitution, espically the Bill of Rights (first 10 ammendments)
This is important for police to understand. The framers had King George the 3rd in mind when drafting this document....re: AUTHORITY.
Stay in shape, get good grades, stay out of trouble, and away from those who get in trouble, NO DRUGS, or alcohol abuse. Hand strength, upper body strength, endurance, etc.
Remember, agencies are looking for honest, folks, and CHARACTER is a paramount consideration.
This should give you plenty to think about. Hope it is helpful.
Good Luck,
loren