We all demand security in one form or another. Our society has become more security-conscious in recent years due to an increased crime rate and rising internal security threats. The homeland security sector has taken law enforcement to a new level. Nowadays, the demand for security experts, police officers, state troopers and FBI agents is at an all-time high. Individuals who have the passion to serve their nation and protect their fellow citizens from criminal offenses can expect to go far in the law enforcement field. Technology has also pushed the need for skilled law enforcement professionals in recent years. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment options for police officers are expected to grow at a rate of 7% in the coming years.
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Law Enforcement Continuing Education
When it comes to law enforcement education, there are many different programs to choose from. You can opt for degrees at undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate levels. In the category of non-degree programs, certificate courses, diplomas and continuing education programs are also in high demand. Many professionals who are already working in the field go for continuing education programs to help update their skills and knowledge. Continuing education programs are designed for individuals who were unable to complete their college education. Today's highly competitive market has encouraged many professionals to seek continuing education and increase their credentials.
There are many different continuing education programs available in the field of law enforcement. Whether you want to join the police force, or wish to enter the fire protection service, you can opt for relevant educational programs and acquire the necessary skills.
The curriculum of continuing education programs is career-oriented. You will be required to study a variety of subjects relevant to your specialization area. For example, if you enroll in a police training program, some of the subjects covered will include firearms, crime prevention techniques, physical fitness, criminal prosecution, homeland security, and defense tactics. Some of the coursework will focus on training, during which you will develop necessary skills.
In a law enforcement continuing education program, you can also earn credit hours for your previous work experience. Now it is possible to enroll in continuing education programs online as well. Those who do not have the time to take campus-based classes due to work commitments can still pursue college education through online programs.
Careers
There are many different law enforcement careers you can choose from. Police officers, FBI agents, forensic scientists, investigators, detectives, probation officers, border patrol agent, and customs agents are a few of them. All these law enforcement professionals work towards one goal, protecting the nation from crime and illegal activities. The work of such law professionals may be physically demanding and risky. Apart from the right set of qualifications and skills, you need to have other qualities such as devotion, passion, and patriotism. If we take a look at the income level in law enforcement careers, police officers are currently making a median annual salary of $55,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This income level is expected to increase with more experience and qualifications.