Here's How Police are Benefiting from Advanced College Degrees
home >> blog articles > here's how police are benefiting from advanced college degrees
The minimum qualifications to become a police officer are not boiler plate standards from agency to agency or from state to state.
They range from a high school diploma or GED to 60 college credits. Some larger Law Enforcement agencies nationwide like Boston PD, San Francisco PD, Chicago PD and Pheonix PD all require 60 college credits or semester hours.
While some police departments maintain strict requirements for college credits or degrees due to the challenges needed for modern policing, others provide alternative pathways.
These alternatives include options for candidates with military service or prior law enforcement experience, acknowledging the valuable skills and discipline acquired through these experiences.
This flexibility allows departments to diversify their recruitment strategies and attract candidates with a variety of backgrounds, each bringing different strengths to the role of a police officer.
Once on the job law enforcement officers can decide on keeping their level of education or continuing on in pursuit of a higher degree for a multitude of reasons that I am certainly get into later in this article.
Police Officers, Sheriff’s Deputies, and State Troopers are not only tasked with maintaining public order and safety but also with responding to calls that involve:
- Mental Health Issues
- Deep rooted racial issues
- Crimes involving advanced schemes of fraud
- Crimes over social networks
- Domestic disputes involving family and probate issues
- Utilizing advanced technology that are computer software based
- and more
RELATED: 7 Types of Law Enforcement Technology Agencies Shouldn't Be Without
In this article I am going to deep-dive into the importance for law enforcement officers to study for and achieve advanced higher education degrees.
I will dive into the benefits of a college educated police officer and give the reasons why advanced degrees can help with promotions, incentives and extra pay.
LEARN MORE: If you are new to COPJOT and me as an author you will undoubtedly want to check out my master index of blog articles.
and...
Understand the causes for law enforcement job stress by reading >> What Classes are Required for a Criminal Justice Degree <<
Let's dive into the meat and potatoes of this article.
The Evolution of Policing and the Need for Higher Education
Historically, the primary qualification for becoming a police officer was a high school diploma or GED. However, the demands of modern policing have changed significantly.
Today’s officers face complex challenges that require critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of social dynamics to name a few.
A college education provides a strong foundation in these areas, equipping officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of contemporary law enforcement.
What are the Benefits of a College Educated Police Officer?
Enhanced Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
One of the primary benefits of a college education is the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
College courses often emphasize analytical thinking, research, and evidence-based decision-making.
These skills are critical for police officers who must assess situations quickly, make informed decisions, and solve problems efficiently.
For instance, an officer dealing with a domestic dispute must be able to de-escalate the situation, understand the underlying issues, and provide appropriate solutions—all of which require strong critical thinking abilities.
A second instance might be a high-ranking officer attending a community meeting where racial issues are at the forefront.
Meeting members become agitated citing problems with the history of the department responding to neighborhoods of color.
The high-ranking officer could use his or her knowledge gained while attaining a masters degree to calm the meeting and speak
LEARN MORE: 7 Powerful Police Leadership Books the Brass are Reading Today
Improved Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Effective communication is essential for police officers, who interact with diverse populations, including victims, suspects, witnesses, and community members.
College education often includes coursework in communication, public speaking, psychology, and sociology, which can enhance an officer’s ability to communicate clearly and empathetically.
This is particularly important in situations where language barriers or cultural differences exist.
An officer with strong interpersonal skills can build trust and rapport with community members, fostering positive relationships and improving overall public safety.
LEARN MORE: The Vital Skills and Qualities Every Good Police Officer Needs
Understanding of Social and Cultural Issues
A college education provides police officers with a broader understanding of social and cultural issues.
Courses in sociology, criminology, and cultural studies expose officers to the complexities of social behavior, crime patterns, and cultural diversity.
This knowledge is invaluable in today’s multicultural society, where officers must navigate diverse communities with sensitivity and awareness.
Understanding cultural nuances can help officers prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, leading to more effective and respectful policing.
Enhanced Knowledge of Law and Ethics
While police academies provide training in law and procedures, a college education offers a deeper understanding of legal principles and ethical considerations.
Courses in criminal justice theory, crime and ethics, and research methods help officers comprehend the legal framework within which they operate and the ethical implications of their actions.
This knowledge is important for ensuring that officers uphold the law while respecting individuals’ rights and maintaining high ethical standards.
A strong ethical foundation can also help officers resist corruption and misconduct, thereby enhancing public trust in law enforcement.
Criminal Justice Degrees have evolved through Technical Colleges and Universities
Technical colleges have revolutionized criminal justice education by incorporating a hands-on approach to their associate and bachelor's degree programs.
Recognizing the practical nature of law enforcement tasks, these institutions emphasize experiential learning through realistic simulations, scenario-based training, and internships with local police departments.
Students engage in mock crime scene investigations, use of force training, and crisis negotiation exercises, which not only deepen their understanding of theoretical coursework but also prepare them for real-world challenges in the field.
RELATED: Jobs with Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice (Ultimate Guide)
This immersive educational model aims to equip students with the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in various criminal justice roles, bridging the gap between academic studies and professional application.
Increased Pay and Career Advancement for College Educated Police Officers
One of the tangible benefits of obtaining a college degree is the potential for increased pay and career advancement.
Many law enforcement agencies offer higher salaries and incentives for officers with college degrees.
This is often part of a structured pay scale that rewards educational attainment.
Additionally, officers with higher education are more competitive for promotions and specialized positions, such as detective, sergeant, or lieutenant.
The financial incentives and career opportunities associated with a college degree can provide significant motivation for officers to pursue higher education.
There is an Enhanced Ability to Perform on the Street for College Educated Police Officers
A college-educated officer is often better equipped to perform effectively on the street.
Through higher ed learning as a young adult officers can become better critical thinkers while using their research and literature experience to write better incident and arrest reports.
Their completed degrees can help them meet minimum qualifications for promotional exams and ultimately help them land those positions.
The combination of critical thinking, communication, and cultural understanding enhances an officer’s ability to handle a wide range of situations.
For example, an officer with a background in psychology may be better prepared to deal with individuals experiencing mental health crises, employing de-escalation techniques to resolve situations peacefully.
Moreover, officers with higher education are often more adept at writing detailed and accurate reports, which are crucial for investigations and legal proceedings.
A well-written report can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case, ensuring that justice is served.
RELATED: How to Write a Police Report: A Step-by-Step Guide
Case Study: The Impact of Education on Policing
A study conducted by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) examined the impact of higher education on policing.
The study found that college-educated officers were less likely to use force, had fewer disciplinary actions, and received fewer complaints from the public compared to their less-educated counterparts.
These findings suggest that higher education contributes to more professional and effective policing, ultimately enhancing public trust and safety.
Encouraging Higher Education in Law Enforcement
Recognizing the importance of higher education, many law enforcement agencies and organizations are actively encouraging officers to pursue college degrees.
Some agencies offer tuition reimbursement programs, allowing officers to continue their education while working.
Additionally, partnerships between police departments and educational institutions have been established to provide accessible and affordable pathways for officers to obtain degrees.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has also advocated for higher education in law enforcement.
The IACP’s Educational Standards for Law Enforcement Leaders recommend that all new officers possess at least an associate degree, with a bachelor’s degree preferred for those seeking leadership positions.
These standards highlight the growing recognition of the value of higher education in law enforcement.
Related Articles
This is What Police Academy Training is Like? (Pro Guide)
What does CODE 3 mean in Police Terminology? (Explained)
The Vital Skills and Qualities Every Good Police Officer Needs
About the Author
Brian Humenuk isn't just an entrepreneur in eCommerce, he is also an informed leader whose experience provides followers and visitors with a look into current and past police issues making headlines in the United States.
Brian has earned three degrees in Criminal Justice with the last, a Masters of Science in Criminal Justice Administration.
Brian extends his training, education, and experience to the officers just now getting into the field so that they may become more informed police officers and stay clear of police misconduct and corruption.
You can find out more about Brian and the COPJOT story on the ABOUT US page.
Affiliate Disclosure
COPJOT is supported by its audience. If you make a purchase through links on this site I may earn a small affiliate commission. Enough to buy myself a small coffee and I want to thank you in advance.
More Information
Are you a Police Officer, Sheriff or State Trooper, Law Enforcement family member or friend check out our Custom Police Notebooks and Metal Police Uniform Pens here on our main website.
