You are here:
Careers: Police/detective
Advertisement
Question
What is a good field I should consider when I pursue my master's degree that would help me further my career as a police officer. Eventually I would like to be a juvenile detective doing work similiar to what you are doing?
I really don't think that it makes a difference what you do while you are earning your masters degree since you will be a patrol officer for many years before you become eligible or experienced enough to become a detective. However working in a juvenile probation office or detention facility won't hurt you.
- Ask a Question
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 9 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thank you very much for your insight. | ||
Related Articles
- Greek Tourist Police - Friends or Foes? Greek tourist police offices and officers
- Illinois State Park Jobs and Career Opportunities - Learn about State Park Jobs and Career Opportunities in Illinois
- Army Commissioned Officer Career Information - Civilian education
- Police Careers - Profile of Police Careers
- Police - Government Jobs
Answers by Expert:
Jack Toomey
Expertise
U.S.: I am an expert in this category for the purpose of giving young people an idea what the hiring process involves for the position of police officer. I am getting a flood of questions from young people who are being influenced by unrealistic television shows. I'd ask you to consider that when you watch police shows on television that they are NOT realistic and most of what you see does not happen in real life. Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. I am NOT a probation officer so I cannot answer questions about probation and parole matters. I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience.I worked in a variety of assignments including investigations, homicide, sex crimes, runaway investigations, missing persons, and fraud.I also dealt with the general public during that time giving a wide range of advice on matters such as domestic disputes, problem solving, teenage problems, civil/criminal matters, and dealing with the mentally ill. I am available to give sound and reasonable advice which can solve most problems. Please do not ask me to do homework questions or online interviews. Young people should not rely on the Internet for interviews. Local police officers are normally very agreeable to assist students with interviews and surveys.
Experience
Worked as a police officer/detective for 26 years.
Graduate of the University of Maryland.B.S. in Law Enforcement.Attended numerous schools and training courses involving investigations, interviewing, interrogations, crime detection, domestic violence, and others. Recognized in court as an expert witness.
Received numerous awards during my police career for expert investigations. Handled the most sensitive and confidential investigations. In 1999 I won an award for my work with high school students while working in my new career in a large suburban high school.
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.