what are the reasons to go to college if i plan to become a police officer (LAPD)?

Law enforcement is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and is no longer just a job requiring physical fitness and strength. There are increasing numbers of police forces around the country which ARE requiring a college degree, so in the future you may find yourself in an awkward position if you do not have one. Furthermore, moving up within the department will take your level of education into account, and you will increase your opportunities with more education.

There are some subject matters, other than criminal justice, which might be particularly useful to you. You will be working with difficult people, so a degree in psychology might be very helpful to a future police officer. Also, technology is playing an increasing role in law enforcement, so something computer-related might also be useful.

Finally, keep in mind that I believe you cannot join the LAPD when you are under 21 years old, so you need something to do during that time anyway. It sends a message to them that you were willing to forego income and spend time trying to improve yourself before goining the force.

First, you start with a higher salary if you have a college degree. Also if you ever want to work for the federal government later on such as the FBI, you will need a 4-year degree. Studies have shown that a police officers with a college degree has less conflicts with the community, possibly because going to college makes people more humble. You are probably wondering what I mean by the last statement but you learn to deal with people from all different backgrounds and ethnicities and this makes a person more well-rounded, not to mention being exposed to many different subject topics in college.

I know that most future police officers choose CJ as their major in college but if you have any thoughts of doing something other than law enforcement, choose a major that is more specialized, especially if you think you may work for the feds someday. You will probably get replies by posting the question at the link below. I find the forum very useful.

Also, if you have a degree in a related field, there might be a slight advantage in pay. You should ask them.

You also might find it easier to get promoted, or access different jobs or assignments in the department. A cop with computer science skills for instance, could get put on some interesting task forces.

A cop with more specific legal training might get some plum assignments.

A cop who has some foresnsic knowledge and education could hit the detective trail faster. Hello CSI?

In fact, I would go talk to LAPD RIGHT NOW, tho find out from the Human relations department what college courses they favour. And if you sign an agreement to enter the department, you could find them funding part of your college education. You should also try get a head start as a police volunteer, becasue the experience means that when you join, you are more than an ordinary rookie.

"Good Luck.... Chief!"

You should get a degree in crimina justice. If you have a degree and are trying to get a job, you will be picked over someone else. Especially since you are going to a big city, where they need people that REALLY know what they are doing. You will be more familiar to the law than those that didn't attend college.

Trust me a degree helps when getting the job.

No need to maybe, but you are going to be competing with people with either a 4 year degree or prior military for a spot to go to police academy. Much better chance with one or the other or both.

For one reason, in most departments it's tough to get promoted beyond a certain level without a degree.

You can get a degree in criminal justice. Also, the college experience is very rewarding. Who knows, you may find something you are even more passionate about?

For yourself, there is no advantage at all. By going to the college , I can save those professors from losing their jobs. Just look at those rich guys or gals, no one ever wasted their time on the campus. Some of them are even high school dropouts.

WELL...one good reason: If you get injured, you may have to switch careers so it's good to have a backup.