Earn Your Law Enforcement Degree Online
If you are interested in becoming a police officer, you will want to check out our featured school's Criminal Justice Associates degree programs. While law enforcement involves not only police officers, but also criminal investigators, customs officials, border patrol, security guards, FBI and CIA agents, US Marshals, and more—many of which require a bachelor degree or higher, it is possible to get started in the field of law enforcement with only an associate degree.
Schools offering online degree programs:
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Kaplan
University offers an Associate
of Science in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement program and
a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
program. In these programs, students learn about constitutional
concepts such as search and seizure and the exclusionary rule.
Coursework includes Police Operations, Criminal Investigation,
Criminal Evidence, and more.
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Colorado
Technical University provides
a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
and Community degree program. In this program, students learn
about law enforcement procedures, the court process and more.
Coursework includes criminal justice theory, the role of technology
in criminal justice and forensics, law enforcement skills,
and more.
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Of course, over time you may get interested in one of the many areas of specialization and seek additional education in something like white collar crime, personal security, firearm instruction, handwriting or fingerprint analysis, immigration issues, or any other topic for which you see a need in your community.
How to Become a Police Officer: Dedication and Work Ethic
Law enforcement careers are not for people who prefer easy work and high pay. The work week usually consists of at least 40 hours although irregular schedules are common. You may also be asked to relocate, to take temporary assignments away from home, to participate in training that requires travel, and to work longer hours during times of natural disaster or national emergencies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that those with police science or military experience are often favored for law enforcement jobs.
While it is not an easy career, law enforcement has its own unique rewards. Sooner or later, you will have opportunities to save lives, to educate the public, to engage in rescue operations and to put those behind bars who are a menace to society. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that your work makes the country a better place in which to live.
Salary and Job Outlook
The prospect for jobs in law enforcement is considered excellent. The following are some of the possible careers you might pursue.
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Local and state law enforcement agencies
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Federal Bureau of Investigation
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U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration
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U.S. Marshals and Deputy Marshals
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State Bureau of Diplomatic Security
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Department of Homeland Security
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Customs Inspectors /Border Patrol
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U.S. Secret Service
The salaries in law enforcement range from about $27,000 a year for entry level police officers to over $111,000 for those involved in investigation or in federal offices. Many universities allow you to complete your education completely online and to participate in local internships as a means of getting experience in the field.
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