What to major in to get into Law enforcement? I read that it does not matter. Does it affect career progression?

Criminal justice degrees are somewhat looked down upon in law enforcement. The general idea is that the academy and agency train you, not a school. Some agencies take a different view, but the general consensus is that a different major is better. Ideally, a degree in management, accounting, or similar should be pursued. These can open up doors in federal agencies such as the IRS, or similar. As for career progression, it depends. In the federal system a degree is almost necessary for an 1811 criminal investigator spot, but it's not needed for an 0083 police officer spot. Internal progression in the Feds is then less focused on education, unless you transfer agencies. Civilian police departments meanwhile cover the entire gambit. One department might not care at all, while the next will demand at least four years of college.

Specialist Perez, what are you interested in learning? ? Criminal justice can be painfully boring at times! Many folks are providing good info here, so learn a little from everyone. You will alewady have a leg up on many of your competitors. For tge longest time, our department stressed that new officers should have at least an associates degree, if not a bachelor's degree. If you plan on going federal, you will definitely need a bachelor's degree as a minimum.

If you are planning to work in a local sheriff's office or a police department, educational requirements will vary. Do your research and see which department will be the "best fit" for your situation. Go on some ride alongs with different departments while you get an education. Your military experience will also be a marketable skill set. You should also look at "long haul " educational needs. What happens if you burn up all your GI Bill on a CJ degree and you decide police work isnt for you, or God forbid, you get injured and have to change professions ?? If you have an interest in a particular field after cop work, tailor your education to that end.

I earned a double major in History and Modern Languages and went into the active Army. I became a cop and I've been one for 18+ years. Right now I'm using my educational benefits to get my teacher licensure so that I can hopefully teach Army JROTC in the near future after retiring.

With current events, look at classes that are interesting and applicable to the type of police work you hope to do. I would strongly recommend getting proficient in a second language so that you can be more effec on the streets. Also learn HOW to WRITE! !! Police officers are not always known for their writing skills. Master the English language and let it show in your incident and arrest reports.

Best of luck to you!!

I would say "underwater basket weaving" I hear that's going to be a new MOS in the Army...just joking.
I would first ask, what part of law enforcement, a city cop, sheriff, or highway patrol? In most cases (like in Florida) you will need to have at least 2 years of a accredited college, or 2 years of Active military or 4 years reserves. However, you would still need to attend their Academy and meet other minimum requirements. If you are trying to go into a Federal agency, like the FBI then I believe you will need a bachelors degree. I have family members that are in law enforcement and only one has a dergee in CJ and he said it does matter what your education is in, just meet the minimum requirements.