PROTECT THE FUTURE AND POSITION YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS
Law enforcement careers can be pursued at three different levels: local, state and federal. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 79% of the approximately 861,000 police and detective jobs were at the local level in 2006, while about 11% and 7% were at the state and federal level, respectively. This is an excellent time to pursue or advance in a law enforcement career because employment of police and detectives is projected to increase 11% by 2016.
Police salaries range from approximately $44,000 to $99,700, while FBI salaries can approach $120,000. Work experience is valuable in moving up the pay grade, but because the FBI, for example, places such a premium on education, its website states "educational achievement can sometimes be substituted for work experience...and qualify you for even higher [pay] grades." The most rewarding and challenging law enforcement careers are often only available to those who have contributed many years to their agency, unless the candidate possesses advanced education. Police and other law enforcement agencies seek candidates with job-specific training and exemplary leadership abilities to fill their higher ranks.
While degrees in criminal justice and public administration are valuable to those interested in a career in law enforcement, these programs of study cover generalized subject matter. A Bachelor’s or Master’s in Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Intelligence Management, or Management of Personal Protection will not only set you apart from your fellow applicants, but will also provide you with invaluable knowledge and training for your law enforcement career. Make the decision today to join our elite team of leaders at Henley-Putnam University.