2 answers
domonick
Student
Troutdale, Oregon
4
Questions
Updated
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What steps do I need to take to obtain the necessary certifications for the criminal investigations division??
What degrees and training do i need to succeed in this feild??
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2 answers
Herbert Webber
Police Sergeant (retired)
10
Answers
Roseville, California
Updated
Herbert’s Answer
You had mentioned college in another post which is a good start.
If you find that you cannot do 4 years of college before you start in law enforcement, do not be discouraged.
Most police departments require only a high school diploma. You can start with just that. Another option is to do 2 years of community college and get an associate degree in criminal justice. At a minimum, I would recommend at least this course of action because of the following:
Community college is cheaper than a 4 year university
You can knock out your lower general education, as well as introduction to criminal justice courses, and work on polishing your reading and writing skill (you will be doing a ton of writing in police work (Tickets, field contacts, reports, warrants,))
If you get hired by the police department and make it through your probationary period then you could then work on scheduling college courses to finish your bachelors or even masters degree when your schedule is more "stable".
On top of college there are a whole lot of continuing professional development courses for police work available through the state and federal agencies, and a majority of the costs are reimbursed through the department.
My approach was the following
2 years community college, 3 years University
After that it was getting hired and trained in academy followed by getting off probation investigation courses whenever they came available and I was able to attend.
I split my time on the street and my time doing investigations evenly over 21 years.
Hopefully this will be a help to you.
Good luck in your career choice.
If you find that you cannot do 4 years of college before you start in law enforcement, do not be discouraged.
Most police departments require only a high school diploma. You can start with just that. Another option is to do 2 years of community college and get an associate degree in criminal justice. At a minimum, I would recommend at least this course of action because of the following:
Community college is cheaper than a 4 year university
You can knock out your lower general education, as well as introduction to criminal justice courses, and work on polishing your reading and writing skill (you will be doing a ton of writing in police work (Tickets, field contacts, reports, warrants,))
If you get hired by the police department and make it through your probationary period then you could then work on scheduling college courses to finish your bachelors or even masters degree when your schedule is more "stable".
On top of college there are a whole lot of continuing professional development courses for police work available through the state and federal agencies, and a majority of the costs are reimbursed through the department.
My approach was the following
2 years community college, 3 years University
After that it was getting hired and trained in academy followed by getting off probation investigation courses whenever they came available and I was able to attend.
I split my time on the street and my time doing investigations evenly over 21 years.
Hopefully this will be a help to you.
Good luck in your career choice.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Domonick,
Here is a direct, step-by-step guide to securing the necessary certifications for a career in criminal investigations:
Step 1: Get a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or Similar Field
A bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a similar field like law enforcement, forensic science, or criminology is usually a must for entry-level jobs in criminal investigations. This degree will give you a solid background in criminal law, criminal procedure, evidence gathering and analysis, among other key areas.
Step 2: Get Specialized Training in Criminal Investigation Techniques
After earning your bachelor's degree, you'll need to get specialized training in criminal investigation techniques. You can get this training from various sources such as law enforcement agencies, private firms, and online training providers. This training may cover:
* Evidence gathering and preservation
* Techniques for interviewing
* Techniques for surveillance
* Forensic analysis
* Crime scene investigation
Step 3: Get Certified as a Criminal Investigator
In many states and jurisdictions, criminal investigators must be certified. You usually get certified by passing a written test and completing a certain number of training hours. The exact requirements for certification can change depending on the state or jurisdiction where you plan to work.
Step 4: Think About a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice or Similar Field
While a bachelor's degree is generally enough for entry-level jobs in criminal investigations, a master's degree in criminal justice or a similar field can give you advanced knowledge and skills that can help your career progress. A master's degree in criminal justice usually takes two years to finish and covers areas such as:
* Advanced criminal law and procedure
* Administration of criminal justice
* Criminal justice policy
* Research methods in criminal justice
Authoritative Reference Titles:
1. "Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science" by the National Institute of Justice
2. "Criminal Justice: A Career Guide" by the Bureau of Justice Statistics
3. "The Criminal Investigator's Handbook" by the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Trainers
These reference titles offer detailed information on the requirements and training for a career in criminal investigations. They cover areas such as criminal law and procedure, evidence gathering and analysis, and opportunities for career progression.
I hope this helps,
God Bless,
James.
Here is a direct, step-by-step guide to securing the necessary certifications for a career in criminal investigations:
Step 1: Get a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or Similar Field
A bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a similar field like law enforcement, forensic science, or criminology is usually a must for entry-level jobs in criminal investigations. This degree will give you a solid background in criminal law, criminal procedure, evidence gathering and analysis, among other key areas.
Step 2: Get Specialized Training in Criminal Investigation Techniques
After earning your bachelor's degree, you'll need to get specialized training in criminal investigation techniques. You can get this training from various sources such as law enforcement agencies, private firms, and online training providers. This training may cover:
* Evidence gathering and preservation
* Techniques for interviewing
* Techniques for surveillance
* Forensic analysis
* Crime scene investigation
Step 3: Get Certified as a Criminal Investigator
In many states and jurisdictions, criminal investigators must be certified. You usually get certified by passing a written test and completing a certain number of training hours. The exact requirements for certification can change depending on the state or jurisdiction where you plan to work.
Step 4: Think About a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice or Similar Field
While a bachelor's degree is generally enough for entry-level jobs in criminal investigations, a master's degree in criminal justice or a similar field can give you advanced knowledge and skills that can help your career progress. A master's degree in criminal justice usually takes two years to finish and covers areas such as:
* Advanced criminal law and procedure
* Administration of criminal justice
* Criminal justice policy
* Research methods in criminal justice
Authoritative Reference Titles:
1. "Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science" by the National Institute of Justice
2. "Criminal Justice: A Career Guide" by the Bureau of Justice Statistics
3. "The Criminal Investigator's Handbook" by the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Trainers
These reference titles offer detailed information on the requirements and training for a career in criminal investigations. They cover areas such as criminal law and procedure, evidence gathering and analysis, and opportunities for career progression.
I hope this helps,
God Bless,
James.