Police Officer Preparation & Law Enforcement Resource - Archive

I have always wanted to be a police officer, but have no idea where to start. Do I need to get a degree? I have googled and binged, and they all send me to online college courses. I'm so confused. Any time i ask an officer how to get started they blow me off like im joking... please help!!!

I have always wanted to be a police officer, but have no idea where to start. Do I need to get a degree? I have googled and binged, and they all send me to online college courses. I'm so confused. Any time i ask an officer how to get started they blow me off like im joking... please help!!!

http://www.realpolice.net/forums/background-checks-hiring-process-46/29514-so-you-want-become-cop.html

By letting us know what state you are in would help.

I have always wanted to be a police officer, but have no idea where to start. Do I need to get a degree? I have googled and binged, and they all send me to online college courses. I'm so confused. Any time i ask an officer how to get started they blow me off like im joking... please help!!!

If you're asking them while you're being booked, maybe you need to work on your timing - among other things...

If you're asking them while you're being booked, maybe you need to work on your timing - among other things...

What's really sad is, I've had that happen a couple of times. I would have some guy in handcuffs in the back of my car and he would ask me how would he go about being a police officer.....

To the OP, google any police department you might be interested in and they will almost always have their minimum requirements posted on their web sites.

rooterash,

Google and Bing are okay places to begin, but like you said, if you do a general search, i.e. "police officer jobs" you will be bombarded with a slew of silly ads. It's best to be specific, and like people say, it all depends on where you are. Beware though, many places are laying off many officers because of budget cuts. Places in the southern area of the US, like FL, TX, GA, and the Carolinas are growing. Personally, I've applied to many places in New England (I'm from NH), but I've also applied to places in TX, CO, Washington DC, etc. The job market for LE is tough in New England, I've tested with a bunch of places for almost 2 years, and I've yet to find employment.
A good place to start would be to just go to your local police station and ask a few questions. I did that, and I landed an awesome summer internship with a great agency. Don't hold yourself back.
As for a degree, again, it all depends on who you want to work for. Some places require a minimum amount of college credits, and some an associate's degree. In my opinion, if you have the resources to get a BA/BS or some credits, do it. Work hard to get yourself into the best physical shape you can be in too. Practice pushups, situps, and run. Good luck with your search. -OldGreg