How to Be a Criminal Investigator
Criminal investigation is a career field that has become very popular in recent years with the growing number of TV shows devoted to the occupation. The opportunities are limitless with criminal investigators in municipal and state governments as well as federal posts. Many positions are also available in the private sector as a private investigator or in the fraud departments of big businesses. Each position has its own set of unique prerequisites.
- Difficulty:
- Challenging
Instructions
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Decide the type of criminal investigator position you would like to pursue. This will determine what requirements you will need before you can pursue your occupation of choice.
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Gain that elusive "previous employment experience." Private investigations do not require an advanced educational degree, but you will need to have previous employment experience in industries such as insurance, collections, military or law enforcement.
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Get the proper certification. Some careers in criminal investigation need more than previous work experience but less than a formal education. Crime scene investigators may not need a degree but may require some certification. This is usually more cost-effective, and you can gain this certification online.
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Attend an accredited college or university. Other careers, such as federal criminal investigation, will more than likely require at least a four-year college degree. Check with the specific agency for their educational requirements.
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Reserve a book on civil service exams from your public library. Most local, municipal and state police agencies may not require a degree or certification. They do, however, require you to pass a civil service examination. Self-help and study guides are available at your public library.
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Exercise regularly and get into shape. The job you want as a criminal investigator requires physical fitness and stamina. Many organizations require that you pass a physical just to be considered. It is still a good idea to get into shape for those that do not require that as a prerequisite.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you have a clean history. Many agencies will not even consider you if you have a criminal past. This may not even be limited to felonies. Some misdemeanors may preclude you from employment as well as traffic violations.
Clean up your credit record. If you have much debt or your credit score is too low, this can be used against you. Get a second job or pay off those credit cards or other debts.
Most agencies have a polygraph requirement. The polygraph will be used to determine your honesty, not whether or not you did something, but whether or not you were truthful and owned up to it. Don't attempt to trick the exam; you will fail and in some cases, can be held criminally liable.
