2 answers
Savannah
Student
Whitmore Lake, Michigan
16
Questions
Asked
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What are the best ways to become a detective
I am in 8th grade. I am taking a class called career and tech. My teacher said that I get to choose 3 jobs I am interested in and I decided to choose a Detective. I thought that it would be interesting to learn about what you do. I hope you respond. #detective #career #school
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2 answers
Hassan Al
Product Management Professional
398
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Hassan’s Answer
Assuming you mean Police Detective then you have to start by becoming a Policy Officer. After a few years of career progression you can then apply to become a sergeant who manages other officers or a detective who works cases.
https://www.joinlapd.com/career-ladders has an overview of the career progression for the LAPD.
Eventhough, it isn't required a degree in Criminal Justice would likely help you become a detective.
https://www.joinlapd.com/career-ladders has an overview of the career progression for the LAPD.
Eventhough, it isn't required a degree in Criminal Justice would likely help you become a detective.
Sheila Jordan
Lead Network Proj/Prog Manager
711
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Savannah:
Your question didn't mention what type of detective you want to research (Police Detective, Private Detective or Criminal Detective). Here are a few items to help you get started on your research . . .
POLICE - DETECTIVES
• Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency’s training academy before completing a period of on-the-job training. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 21 years old, and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualification standards. A felony conviction or drug use may disqualify a candidate.
• Police and detective applicants must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, although many federal agencies and some police departments require some college coursework or a college degree. Many community colleges, 4-year colleges, and universities offer programs in law enforcement and criminal justice. Knowledge of a foreign language is an asset in many federal agencies and geographical regions.
PRIVATE DETECTIVES - INVESTIGATORS
• Private detectives and investigators search for information about legal, financial, and personal matters. They offer many services, such as verifying people’s backgrounds and statements, finding missing persons, and investigating computer crimes.
• Private detectives and investigators typically need several years of work experience and a high school diploma. In addition, the vast majority of states require private detectives and investigators to have a license.
• Education requirements vary greatly with the job, but most jobs require a high school diploma. Some, though, may require a 2- or 4-year degree in a field such as criminal justice.
• Most private detectives and investigators learn through on-the-job training, typically lasting between several months and a year.
Although new investigators must learn how to gather information, additional training depends on the type of firm that hires them. I wish you much success on your journey. Best of luck to you!
Police and Detectives • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm#tab-4
Private Detectives and Investigators • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/private-detectives-and-investigators.htm#tab-4
Your question didn't mention what type of detective you want to research (Police Detective, Private Detective or Criminal Detective). Here are a few items to help you get started on your research . . .
POLICE - DETECTIVES
• Most police and detectives must graduate from their agency’s training academy before completing a period of on-the-job training. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 21 years old, and able to meet rigorous physical and personal qualification standards. A felony conviction or drug use may disqualify a candidate.
• Police and detective applicants must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, although many federal agencies and some police departments require some college coursework or a college degree. Many community colleges, 4-year colleges, and universities offer programs in law enforcement and criminal justice. Knowledge of a foreign language is an asset in many federal agencies and geographical regions.
PRIVATE DETECTIVES - INVESTIGATORS
• Private detectives and investigators search for information about legal, financial, and personal matters. They offer many services, such as verifying people’s backgrounds and statements, finding missing persons, and investigating computer crimes.
• Private detectives and investigators typically need several years of work experience and a high school diploma. In addition, the vast majority of states require private detectives and investigators to have a license.
• Education requirements vary greatly with the job, but most jobs require a high school diploma. Some, though, may require a 2- or 4-year degree in a field such as criminal justice.
• Most private detectives and investigators learn through on-the-job training, typically lasting between several months and a year.
Although new investigators must learn how to gather information, additional training depends on the type of firm that hires them. I wish you much success on your journey. Best of luck to you!
Sheila recommends the following next steps: