Do US Police Officers Need a Criminal Justice Degree or Equivalent?

Historically, US law enforcement jobs have been in high demand, with many aspiring officers wondering whether a Criminal Justice (CJ) degree is necessary for a successful career. However, the truth is more nuanced and depends on several factors.

Historical Demand for Law Enforcement Jobs

The United States has a long history of law enforcement being in high demand. Many candidates believe that having a CJ degree can only be advantageous, if not a mandatory requirement.

Is a Criminal Justice Degree Recommended?

Interestingly, numerous law enforcement experts and organizations now recommend against pursuing a CJ degree. Many state police academies and departments offer their own on-site Criminal Justice instruction as part of their basic curriculum. This means that a degree may not provide added value for hopeful police officers.

College Requirements for US Police Departments

Many larger police departments and top-paying ones in the United States do require some college education, usually between 45 to 60 semester hours. However, only a handful out of over 17,500 departments require a Criminal Justice degree or anything similar. An example is the author's old police department, which requires a minimum of 60 semester hours of college in any subject. Almost all those who make it past the first written test have a bachelor's degree with 120 semester hours or graduate work/degrees.

Education Trends in Modern Police Work

Success in law enforcement today is more about being a generalist and synthesizer rather than focusing narrowly on police-specific education. General education that enhances critical thinking and logical skills is highly beneficial. Those who excel in modern police written tests and do well on GREs often majored in or took courses in philosophy and literature.

Requirements for Secondary Education

For most police officers, a secondary school certificate or GED is the fundamental prerequisite. Many law enforcement associations may require or favor candidates with a four-year certification partner's degree or a specific number of post-secondary instruction credits.

Limitations of Criminal Justice Studies for Future Officers

Some argue that courses like Criminal Justice or Police Science are too narrow in scope for a future police officer. Effective law enforcement requires a wide range of education and experience. When you attend a police academy, you receive the Criminal Justice classes that are essential for becoming a police officer.

The Value of a Degree

Interestingly, having a CJ degree does not guarantee a significant salary advantage. Each department has its own standards, but a college degree may result in a small raise—usually $1,000 to $3,000 above the “base salary.” The author found that while enjoying his undergraduate studies in Criminal Justice, it was neither necessary nor relevant when he became a police officer and served in two different departments.

Conclusion

In summary, while a CJ degree may not be a requirement for most US police officers, it can be a useful tool if one is seeking to enhance their career opportunities. Ultimately, a broader educational background that includes critical thinking, logical skills, and cultural understanding can provide a more robust foundation for a successful career in law enforcement.