Is my Bachelors degree going to be "wasted" by becoming a police officer?
Asked by Jess is pg with#2
I am getting ready to graduate with a bachelors in Political Science, I had originally wanted to go to law school, but I am becoming more and more interested in "hands on" law enforcement work rather than Law itself, if that makes any sense. I would love to one day work as a detective but would probably begin as a regular patrol officer after completing training and becoming certified (I live in FL) Would my B.A. be any use to me and help me bypass and educational requirements. I ask this because everyone I discuss this with seems to think I am foolish for wanting to be a police officer after 4 years of college. Any thoughts or insight would be helpful! TIA

Best Answer:
The people telling you that are idiots! Many police officers are highly educated, and the ones who are tend to quickly move up the ranks. "Everyone" you are talking to are demonstrating their ignorance and prejudice. I personally know friends that became police officers following the exact same path that you did, and they love their jobs and are doing well. You should go to your local police HQ and ask to speak with someone in their Human Resources department. Not only will they help you understand your potential as a law enforcement officer, they will definitely prove to you how wrong your friends and family are. DO IT!!! Go meet with the H.R. person. You will be so happy that you did, and it will make you more confident about your decision.

An education never goes to waste -- an educated police officer wouldn't fall amiss either. More power to you if you take up this thankless but very needed profession
Answered by Mc Duff

I got my Bachelor in Fine Arts and now am considering being a vet. tech. :) Do what you want to do, I'm sure your Bachelor's will come in handy. A LOT of people go to school for one thing and end up doing another. Some day down the road you might be actually using your Bachelor's, who knows, who cares. Do what you want and enjoy life!
Answered by Monica K

alot of police depts require a bachelors degree in something. if you want to go state or federal this might help you in the long run. or if you get tired of police work at least you have something.
Answered by kiwi gal

Never, because you as a person were enriched by the college experience. and very likely you would use your knowledge as a police officer. And some departments REQUIRE college- perhaps not a BA (maybe only a associates degree) but I know in NYC some college is required.
Answered by GeeGee

http://stats.bls.gov/oco/print/ocos160.htm The above is an overview for police/law enforcement work in the US.
Answered by surffsav

The best thing you can do is be happy at what you want to do. If you find out you don't like the "cop shop" you can head back to law school and become a thief, or ah lawyer. If you went the other way you'd have to much invested to turn back.
Answered by Retired

A BA will be a big help in getting promotions, but your work history is also important. If you are a good police officer on the streets and behind the desk, a BA will help you go up quickly. It is also very important if you want to get state police or federal work. You might even be interested, after getting experience, working as an investigator for the states attorney (federal court system) or district attorney.
Answered by OldGringo