How Long Does It Take, What Degree Do You Need, and More
Police Detectives
Police Detectives conduct investigations to prevent crimes or solve criminal cases.
What degree do you need
High School Diploma
One of the most common questions that we always get is what major or degree do I need to become Police Detectives or what courses do I need to take.
We also asked Police Detectives what did they major in college or university and here are the top 5 most popular majors that came up.
Natural Resources Law Enforcement and Protective Services |
Criminal Justice |
Criminalistics and Criminal Science |
Law Enforcement Investigation and Interviewing |
Law Enforcement Record-Keeping and Evidence Management |
Police Detectives must have at least a high school education or GED and be a graduate of their agency’s training academy. Many agencies and some police departments require some college coursework or a college degree.
How hard is it
You may need some previous work-related skill, knowledge or experience to be a Police Detective. For example, an electrician must complete three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Careers in this difficulty category will usually need 1 or 2 years of on-the-job training and informal training with experienced workers. These careers usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Similar careers include hydroelectric production managers, travel agents, electricians, court reporters, and medical assistants.
License and certifications
Police Detectives must be U.S. citizens, usually be at least 21 years old, have a driver’s license, and meet specific physical qualifications. Applicants may have to pass physical exams of vision, hearing, strength, and agility, as well as competitive written exams. Previous work or military experience is often seen as a plus.
Skills required
We asked other Police Detectives if they could only have 5 skills, what would they be. Here is what they said.
1. | Speaking what does this mean |
2. | Active Listening what does this mean |
3. | Critical Thinking what does this mean |
4. | Social Perceptiveness what does this mean |
5. | Reading Comprehension what does this mean |
= Hot in-demand that most employers are looking for
Knowledge required
Just like any other job, you will need certain know-hows to excel at your job. Police Detectives are generally very knowledgeable in these 5 key areas.
1. | Law and Government what does this mean |
2. | Public Safety and Security what does this mean |
3. | English Language what does this mean |
4. | Psychology what does this mean |
5. | Customer and Personal Service what does this mean |
Learn more about Police Detectives
Summary | |
Job Description | |
Salary | |
Requirements (You are here) | |
Quiz |
Related to Police Detectives Requirements
Police Detectives requirements, how to become Police Detectives, degree required to be a Police Detective, Police Detectives license and certifications, majors to be a Police Detective, is it hard to become a Police Detective and how long does it take