Police Science Degrees
The scope of a police officer's job has changed over the last decade because of a heightened awareness of terrorism, pandemics and natural disasters. Law enforcement professionals now need additional training that prepares them for these possibilities. Police science degree programs provide education to current and future law enforcement, corrections and security professionals that gives a broader perspective than what is learned during standard police training. These programs explore topics such as the emergency preparedness, counter-terrorism, criminal investigation skills and many other topics.
Although a degree is not necessarily required for local law enforcement and private security positions, it is preferred by many employers and is required at the bachelor's level for most federal agency positions. Police science degrees qualify individuals for positions in the FBI, Homeland Security, US Customs and Border Protection and other agencies as well as at state and federal corrections institutions, local police departments and at private security firms.
Degree Options
- Associate's Degree – Associate's degree programs will prepare graduates for jobs in local law enforcement, corrections and private security firms.
- Bachelor's Degree – Graduates of a bachelor's degree program will be able to work in local, state and federal law enforcement or corrections or at private security firms.
- Master's Degree – Master's degree programs prepare working professionals for career advancement or specialization.
Schools
Police science degree programs can be found at small universities and colleges, community colleges, technical colleges and a number of reputable online schools. Some programs are called criminal justice and police science programs.
Coursework
Below are some examples of the types of courses that will be found in a police science degree program:
- Criminal Law – Examines categories of criminal activity and how laws are used to deter and prosecute criminal activity.
- Criminal Investigation – Topics include crime scene searches, preservation of physical evidence, interviews, interrogations and case preparation.
- Emergency Planning - Students learn principles of planning, organizing and directing first responders in emergency situations. Also covered is communications, evacuations, medical care and preserving crime scene evidence.
- Deviance and Social Control – Examines theories of deviance, control and deterrence. Deviant populations such as drug gangs, at-risk youth and white collar criminals are covered.
- Criminal Justice System – Topics include principles and administration of law enforcement, courts and corrections and procedures within each facet of the system.
Aptitudes and Interests
Those who are interested in a career in law enforcement or corrections need to be responsible, mature and have integrity. Physical fitness and solid decision making skills are also needed. They should have a desire to make a difference by protecting the public from crime.
Career Options
Below are some potential career opportunities for those with a degree in police science:
- Police Officer
- Detective or Criminal Investigator
- Correctional Officer
- Private Security Officer
Related Majors
- Law Enforcement - Program specific to those who will become law enforcement officers.
- Criminal Justice - Broader program that prepares students for law enforcement, corrections, parole and probation officer careers.
- Public Safety - Multi-disciplinary education which prepare students for various public safety roles.
- Homeland Security - Program focuses on national security, disaster preparedness and response and counter-terrorism.
How To Evaluate Police Science Degree Programs
When choosing a police science degree program, the following factors should be taken into consideration:
- Flexibility - Some programs that are intended for working students offer classes during evenings and on weekends as well as partially or completely online.
- Program Focus - When choosing a program, making sure the program's focus matches the person's career goals is important.
- Electives and Concentrations – The elective courses and/or concentrations available should be evaluated against the student's career goals and interests to make sure the program will meet expectations.
- Cost - Tuition, fees, living expenses and financial aid should be compared across program options.
- Accreditation - Schools need to be accredited by one of the six regional accreditation agencies or by an agency that is recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Resources
Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association
National Association of Police Organizations
Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
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