Which masters degree would be best when seeking a future career as a narcotics or homicide detective in LE?

Education for a career in law enforcement?

• I'm wanting to pursue a career in law enforcement, starting local and eventually going to a federal agency. Right now I'm a junior in highschool and will not only have my highschool diploma by next year but also my General AA degree from a local state college. I plan on attending the University of Florida after high school but don't quite know what to major in. Here are my thoughts: I could major in Criminal Justice and possibly get a masters in public admin. like I know a lot of the high ranking officials in local law enforcement agencies do. The only thing is I hear a CJ degree is useless and it's not much to fall back on if LE is something that doesn't work out I could major in Business (Don't want to do accounting heard it's terrible) and still pursue a LE career and have something to fall back on. The only thing is I don't have as much interest in Business as I do Law Enforcement. And also could I still go for a masters in public admin or would I only be able to get a masters in business admin. And would the latter benefit me? I'm very intelligent and I know you can scrape by in LE with just an AA but I want to go to school and really succeed in life. Any advice on which route is best to take?

• Answer:

  Getting law enforcement officer jobs is becoming more and more competitive. Getting a college degree is one of the best things that you can do if you want to become a law enforcement officer. As you probably know, you don't have to start out as a local law enforcement officer before becoming a federal law enforcement officer. Get at least a 4 year degree. If you have the ability, definitely get an advanced degree. Many people would suggest choosing a major other than criminal justice. You should learn what you need to know about criminal justice during the academy, during your field training, and during your first couple years on the job. There are many good majors for law enforcement officers and people that want to become law enforcement officers. Accounting, business, communications, computer science, a foreign language, and law are some examples. I would choose business or a computer related degree. Whatever major you choose, make the most of your time and money. Get the highest grade point average that you can. Participate in a couple extracurricular activities such as student government, criminal justice club, or sports. Consider trying to get an internship with a law enforcement agency while in college. Consider doing some regular volunteer work. Don't do anything illegal. Maintain a good reputation. Best of luck!