What Does a Person Need to Do to Become a Police Officer?
Police officers are responsible for apprehending people suspected of breaking laws, and completing the associated paperwork. Police officers also must be able to give first aid when needed. A great deal of a police officer's time is spent patrolling areas within the department's jurisdiction. As a police officer becomes more experienced, she may become responsible for more investigative work.
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Academy Eligibility
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To be eligible for enrollment in a police department's academy, you must be at least 21 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You also must be a United States citizen. Some departments may also require some college coursework, or even a college degree.
Police Academy
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The type of police academy you attend depends on the size of your department. Large departments and state agencies may run their own academies. Small departments may need to send police officer trainees to a state-run academy, where students from various departments train together.
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Coursework
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Coursework at the police academy generally takes between 12 and 14 weeks to complete. Lectures cover laws and investigation techniques. Students also get practical experience in such police duties as handling firearms and administering first aid.
Examinations
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You must complete physical and written examinations before employment. Your vision and hearing will be tested, in addition to your strength and agility. You also will be interviewed by other officers and possibly by psychologists. You need to pass a background check, a drug test and possibly a lie detection test.
Promotions
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If you want to specialize in one particular type of police work, you need to work in the department for a certain length of time, usually six months to three years. You will be evaluated and given examinations to receive promotions.
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References
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