Online Law Enforcement & Investigation Degree

Online Law Enforcement & Investigation Degree

Perhaps no other position is so essential to the general order and safety of the public at large than law enforcement. Though often scorned and ridiculed, police officers and investigators provide an essential function. Without them, our society would quickly devolve into chaos and vigilantism. Many police and sheriffs' departments look for candidates with military experience and/or college degrees in police science. Those who have either often find the best opportunities. Even though some law enforcement agencies hire people with high school diplomas, typically the higher level of education you attain, the more likely you'll get the law enforcement job you want.


You can earn an associates, bachelors, masters, or doctorate in criminal justice. Where and what you do will depend largely upon present hiring needs, experience, training and education. Typically, an associates degree could qualify you to work as a local beat cop, but with higher degrees and greater training, you can explore a career as an FBI agent, US Marshal, US Secret Service agent, customs agent, and more. More often, more advanced roles in local police departments like chief of police and other supervisory positions are awarded to those with the most experience and education.

Still, if police work isn't exactly your preference, then consider a career in investigation. As an investigator, you will need to rely on intuition while working long, uneven hours. You can also use your criminal justice background to gain employment with private companies and law firms. Ideally, you'll want to pursue at least a four-year degree to be seriously considered for detective's job in a law enforcement agency.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics employment opportunities for police and detectives are expected to grow 11-percent through 2016. Private detectives and investigators should grow 18-percent.

The annual median salary for police and sheriff's deputies was over $47,000 in 2007. Police and detective supervisors earned just over $69,000. Earnings for detectives and criminal investigators were $58,000.

Private detectives and investigators annual median earnings were almost $34,000 in 2006, however their earnings often vary dramatically and largely depend upon employer, specialty, and geographic location.