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What do you need educational wise to become a cop?

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Thank you comment icon Research the agency. Each agency has different levels of education needed. Divita Washington
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Kim’s Answer

Each state sets its own minimum standards. In California, the minimum requirement is a HS diploma, or its equivalent. However, agencies can set higher standards, so, it will be necessary for you to check with the agencies you are considering to see what their standards are. It is increasingly common for agencies to require a certain number of college hours, short of a degree.


I believe some college will be good for you, as it will prepare you for the level of critical thinking necessary to be a successful officer. I would not recommend more than an Associate's degree at this point, unless the departments require it. That is because once you become an officer, you will likely find that the department offers "tuition assistance." As expensive as college has become, the tuition assistance is an awesome program! You can pursue your Bachelor's once you become an officer.


Education often helps to get a higher certification level, and many departments pay extra for college and certifications, sometimes quite a bit more.


best of luck!
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James’s Answer

Many local law enforcement agencies will require nothing more than a high school diploma. This may be the case, but if you are to be competitive, not just for being hired, but promotion later on in your career, you will have to pursue some level of higher education. Higher level law enforcement like at the federal level will require a four year college degree. Some law enforcement jobs involving psychology involve even more advanced degrees and certifications.
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