Law enforcement requirements.?

Question

I had to take a carrer test in school that said that law and security were my third highest interest. I decided to see what it was like and it piqued my curiosity. I was wondering what the requirements are to be a police officer, the benefits, and what exactly they do? Hollywood has seemed to overexagerate some things just to make their stories have some interest.

Answer 1

In Utah all you need to start is a POST certification. The academy here is 17 weeks if you are sponsored by a department, and if you pay for yourself at a part time academy it runs in two blocks. The first block is three months and the second is almost five months. You will have to have a good background that includes your personal life and habits. Utah's starting pay is usually $15-$18 per hour depending on the department. Benefits are usually good and most departments have a 20 year retirement. You have to care about other people you don't even know to have a successful career in law enforcement. You will see a lot of bad things but you will also be able to help someone in need. As a law enforcement officer you need to understand that cops are underpaid and overworked. They are also held to a higher standard than civilians. Its the one of the most dangerous jobs, and most rewarding.

Answer 2

I can tell you the qualifications it takes in the city of Dallas (I'm sure it's similar to other locals) -

POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE (46015) – CONTINUOUS ENROLLMENT
Start at $3,220 - $3,320 monthly based on level of education

Minimum Qualification:

Forty-five (45) semester credit hours with a C average or better from an accredited college or university (excluding developmental courses).
Minimum of four (4) years active service in the Armed Forces of the United States and
received an honorable discharge will substitute for the entire college education.
Spanish/English Equivalency Test (CLEP) will substitute for 12 semester credit hours.
Minimum age 19 1/2 years with 60 semester hours of college OR 21 years of age with 45 semester college hours.
No Felony or Class A Misdemeanor convictions.
Must have valid driver's license with good driving record.
Must possess the physical/medical health to adequately perform the duties of a Police Officer.
Application Process:

Official college transcript must accompany the application.
Military applicants must provide DD214 with the application.
Dallas Police Recruiting Office: 1-800-527-2948.

Exam covers spelling, vocabulary, verbal, grammar, reading comprehension and basic math skills. PICTURE I.D. REQUIRED.

http://www.dallascityhall.com/html/open_positions.html

Answer 3

From what ive seen it usually helps to have a 2 year community corrections degree - your local community college can help you with all the classes required to get there. I am currently in school for the same degree and where I live it is 69 credit hours. But mine is also for a Probation / Parole officer . So check with the college. Good luck in your studies.

Answer 4

The career counselor at your school should have information on law enforcement requirements. Ask him or her for brochures.

Answer 5

(1) Do you know your name & can you spell it?
(2) Were you picked on in high school and never confronted your bullies?
(3) Do you like big flashing lights?
(4) Do you have a desire to invade people's privacy?

If Yes to all 3- You're in!

Answer 6

all of them require commencement from severe college or equivalent. touch the dep. you have an interest approximately. talk with between the recruiters. reckoning on the state it could selection.