How to Become Homicide Detective

Homicide detectives play an important role within a police force. Not only do they investigate and oversee one of the worst crimes imaginable, but they also provide comfort and justice for families by tracking down the person responsible for the death of their loved one. Getting this particular position takes many years, but it is something you can accomplish if you know how to become a homicide detective.

Instructions

1. Earn your Bachelor's degree. Many people assume that you can simply join the police force and work your way up to homicide detective. While this may be true for some jurisdictions, most police forces require their detectives to have a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field.

2. Join the police force. You should expect to join the police force and go through the same initial training and work experience as most officers. Most detectives spend at least a few years working on the streets before having the opportunity to advance to a detective position.

3. Accept promotions to any type of detective. Since homicide is one of the top investigative departments in the police force, you may be offered other detective opportunities first. Take these as they provide excellent experience and make you more likely to get named to the homicide division later.

4. Earn a spot on the homicide squad. After working hard and showing your commitment to the police force, hopefully you'll be offered the job you want as a homicide detective when a position opens up. Just remember to be patient and keep working hard since it does take years.

Tips & Warnings

• Attend any extra training opportunities available as a police officer as this shows dedication and willingness to go above the call of duty.

• Your performance as a police officer will weigh heavily in whether you have the opportunity to advance to homicide detective. Make sure you are doing your best work at all times.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish