What degree do you need to be a criminal investigator?

• Hi Omar, The type of degree you possess isn't as important as the experience you have to be an investigator. A degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Sociology or other behavioral related degrees can give you the foundation you need to be a successful investigator, but actual experience, doing the job, is what you need. I would advise you to look into the requirements for a police officer in your area. This is where most investigators begin because the experience you gain as a police officer is what makes a good investigator. You learn about human behavior, criminals and how/why they commit crimes. These are skills that are learned on the job, rather than in a classroom. However, most departments require at least a 2 year degree or military experience, so gaining knowledge in the Criminal Justice field through a 2 or 4 year degree is a great start to your career. I would recommend choosing a degree in the field that most interests you...Homeland Security, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Forensic Science, Law Enforcement Administration, Legal Studies or Police Science. Good luck

a clean criminal record, and a hankering for the truth is a great start