4 answers
Updated
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What degree is needed for working in protective services?
What values will I need for a job in protective services?
How did you join the protective services industry?
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
In my experience, the college degrees in criminal justice, sociology, legal studies, and psychology seem to be the most popular for protective services.
I got into it because I was looking for something in the public sector to gain more experience, and I stayed for ten years.
I got into it because I was looking for something in the public sector to gain more experience, and I stayed for ten years.
Updated
James’s Answer
In my case I went straight from college into the municipal police department. I took advantage of every opportunity for extra training I had. It included on line courses with a good college on variety of subjects. I also attended special courses on executive protection and the secret service class on executive protection on political figures. Quite different from protecting private citizens. Classes in driving are offered also with some of the better ones in California, don’t ask me why. Continuous education is the key so start there and good luck.
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Robert
There are quite a few different pathways one can take to enter this career. Each different law enforcement or protective service entities have different requirements. I would encourage you to research the different fields to see what you like and look into the specific requirements. Once you narrow your ideal field, it will give you insight on your journey.
As to degrees, there are many different paths one can take to enter the field. You could look in to degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology and Public Administration. In today's world of technology, one can pursue a degeee in Cybersecurity. There are more than these I have listed but rather a starting point. Some law enforcement agencies give credit for military service.
All protective services will require a driver license, a background check, no criminal record, and no drug use. There is often physical tests that one must pass as well to ensure the individual is able to perform the tasks needed.
Best of luck on you endeavour.
There are quite a few different pathways one can take to enter this career. Each different law enforcement or protective service entities have different requirements. I would encourage you to research the different fields to see what you like and look into the specific requirements. Once you narrow your ideal field, it will give you insight on your journey.
As to degrees, there are many different paths one can take to enter the field. You could look in to degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology and Public Administration. In today's world of technology, one can pursue a degeee in Cybersecurity. There are more than these I have listed but rather a starting point. Some law enforcement agencies give credit for military service.
All protective services will require a driver license, a background check, no criminal record, and no drug use. There is often physical tests that one must pass as well to ensure the individual is able to perform the tasks needed.
Best of luck on you endeavour.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Robert
Updated
Hilary’s Answer
Depending on what type of protective services you are considering there are several directions in education requirements. For child protection services, you would need a bachelors or masters degree in social services. If you were interested in protecting important people as security there are several directions including criminal justice!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Robert