Do I Have to Go to College to Become a Police Officer?

Police officers protect their community.

Police officers face challenging situations and get the chance to push themselves all while helping the people in their community. Police work has its rewards. Police officers can take satisfaction in knowing they helped out their fellow-man while working in a career that provides financial security. To become a police officer, applicants must have certain physical and mental skills as well as formal education and training.

Basic Education

All police officers must have a high school diploma or GED. Officers wishing to enter into specialized departments may need one to two years of college coursework or a college degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Before entering the field, police officers attend either a state or local police academy. At the academy, the officer learns basic job skills, first aid, self-defense and firearm use. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that police academy training lasts 12 to 14 weeks on average.

College Requirements

A few cities require that police officers have a college education. USA Today reports that as of 2006, police officers in Plano, Texas, must have a four-year degree. Other cities require a two-year degree or some college coursework. Potential police officers can benefit from studying fields related to crime, law or human nature. For example, studies in criminal law, forensic science and psychology all benefit a police officer.

Advancement

To advance their careers, police officers will need to obtain a college degree. For example, becoming a police detective requires that the officer have some college experience or even a four-year degree, according to Criminal Justice Degrees Guide. Police supervisors may also need an associate or bachelor's degree, according to the Michigan Jobs & Career Portal. While police officers do not need a specific type of degree for advancement, taking coursework in criminal law, psychology, computer systems and public speaking will be of use on the job.

Salary and Benefits

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of May 2008, patrol officers had an average salary of $51,410 per year. Police officers who obtain a college education and advance in their careers can see a salary increase. Criminal detectives had an average salary of $60,910, and police supervisors had an average salary of $75,490. Beyond salary, police officers typically receive paid vacation days, paid sick days, retirement accounts and medical insurance. Many officers also receive a uniform allowance.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics; Police Officer; March 2010
• Bureau of Labor Statistics; Police and Detectives; December 2009
• USA Today; Police Agencies Find it Hard to Require Degrees; Kevin Johnson; September 2006
• Criminal Justice Degrees Guide: Becoming a Police Detective: How to Become a Police Detective
• Michigan Jobs & Career Portal: Police Supervisor