5 answers
Payton
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
2
Questions
Asked
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What are the prerequisites in order to become a Police Officer?
I am fairly certain that I need a 2 or 4 year degree but I don't really want to go to college.
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5 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Payton!
It's awesome that you're thinking about a career in law enforcement — that's a path that takes courage, heart, and a real commitment to helping others. The road to becoming a police officer can look a little different depending on where you are, but one thing that always matters is your dedication to serving your community.
In Minnesota, most departments do require at least a 2-year degree or military experience, but that doesn't mean you're out of options if college isn't your thing. Some states or smaller departments might not require college at all, and there’s always the possibility of requirements changing in the future. The best way to know for sure is to reach out to local police departments directly and ask what their current hiring process looks like.
Even if college isn't your first choice, I’d encourage you to think of it less like school and more like an investment in yourself and your future career. Many community colleges offer Criminal Justice programs that are hands-on and focused on exactly what you'll need to know as a police officer — not just textbooks and tests. Plus, having that degree could help you move up the ranks faster down the line.
If you're really set on skipping college, you could consider joining the military in a law enforcement specialty. That path could give you valuable experience, leadership skills, and even open the door to becoming a police officer without needing a degree.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you're following a career where you can make a difference. Whether that means going to college, joining the military, or finding another way in — there's always a path forward for people who truly want to serve.
Wishing you all the best, future officer! 🚓💪
It's awesome that you're thinking about a career in law enforcement — that's a path that takes courage, heart, and a real commitment to helping others. The road to becoming a police officer can look a little different depending on where you are, but one thing that always matters is your dedication to serving your community.
In Minnesota, most departments do require at least a 2-year degree or military experience, but that doesn't mean you're out of options if college isn't your thing. Some states or smaller departments might not require college at all, and there’s always the possibility of requirements changing in the future. The best way to know for sure is to reach out to local police departments directly and ask what their current hiring process looks like.
Even if college isn't your first choice, I’d encourage you to think of it less like school and more like an investment in yourself and your future career. Many community colleges offer Criminal Justice programs that are hands-on and focused on exactly what you'll need to know as a police officer — not just textbooks and tests. Plus, having that degree could help you move up the ranks faster down the line.
If you're really set on skipping college, you could consider joining the military in a law enforcement specialty. That path could give you valuable experience, leadership skills, and even open the door to becoming a police officer without needing a degree.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you're following a career where you can make a difference. Whether that means going to college, joining the military, or finding another way in — there's always a path forward for people who truly want to serve.
Wishing you all the best, future officer! 🚓💪
Loved reading this, thanks!
Archived
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Girls
Payton, Dr. H's advice is solid: if you're not keen on college, don't worry—some police departments might not require a degree. You can still get your foot in the door with military experience in law enforcement. It’s a great way to gain valuable skills and leadership experience. Stay committed, and always keep your eyes on the bigger picture: serving your community. There's always a path forward.
Mr. Trish
You're very welcome Hanna! Andthank you Mr. Trish, you have gavin some wisdom, down-to-earth advice too. Sometimes the best path forward isn’t the one you expect, but with determination and a focus on your goals, you'll find your way. Everything you do shapes your future!
Dr H
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1831
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Yikes!
I'm not sure what the others are looking at. but it appears to me that the state of MN requires a minimum of a 2-year degree.
https://mn.gov/post/applicants/generalinformation/get-started/hihgschool/wdinbpo/
These are the places to get that degree
https://mn.gov/post/applicants/generalinformation/get-started/hihgschool/professionalpeaceofficereducation/index-high-school.jsp
There appear to be alternatives, especially if you have prior military experience IN A LAW ENFORCEMENT OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY
"OR
Meet the requirements for military reciprocity which are:
Have four years of cumulative experience in a law enforcement occupational specialty, or
Possess a post-secondary from a regionally accredited school and have at least two years cumulative experience in a law enforcement occupational specialty."
https://mn.gov/post/applicants/applyingforexam/military-reciprocity.jsp
College or military? Which do you prefer? Or, option 3, move to a state that does not require college?
It's been pretty common for some time to require college, however, given the public sentiment against law enforcement, it is difficult to find enough qualified applicants. This MAY result in a swing back towards accepting applicants without a degree. Some depts will hire you without it, but, then require you to get it within a certain amount of time, or else lose your job.
"I don't want to . . . ." is different than not having the means to be able to do so. Law enforcement is a quasi-military environment, and there's not a lot of room for "I don't want to. . . " I didn't want to arrest the guy who was trying to go to his father's funeral, or the teen who was trafficking drugs to pay her college tuition. I didn't want to stand outside at 2 a.m. in the dead of winter for "traffic control" when there was no traffic. I didn't want to have to supervise an officer who was friends with the chief. . . and the list goes on. You will always have to do something you don't want to do, now's as good a time as any to start learning to do those things (with a smile on your face!) to the best of your ability.
My recommendation is to consider military service, in the required Law Enforcement Occupational Specialty. (see link above for list of accepted specialties). You will learn a lot, and military experience looks good on a resume. Additionally, you could start exploring which states do not require a college degree. But, keep in mind, even though the state doesn't mandate it, agencies within the state are free to have higher standards, so if you find states that don't require degrees, look at agencies within the state and see if the do or don't.
Best of luck to you!
Kim
I'm not sure what the others are looking at. but it appears to me that the state of MN requires a minimum of a 2-year degree.
https://mn.gov/post/applicants/generalinformation/get-started/hihgschool/wdinbpo/
These are the places to get that degree
https://mn.gov/post/applicants/generalinformation/get-started/hihgschool/professionalpeaceofficereducation/index-high-school.jsp
There appear to be alternatives, especially if you have prior military experience IN A LAW ENFORCEMENT OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY
"OR
Meet the requirements for military reciprocity which are:
Have four years of cumulative experience in a law enforcement occupational specialty, or
Possess a post-secondary from a regionally accredited school and have at least two years cumulative experience in a law enforcement occupational specialty."
https://mn.gov/post/applicants/applyingforexam/military-reciprocity.jsp
College or military? Which do you prefer? Or, option 3, move to a state that does not require college?
It's been pretty common for some time to require college, however, given the public sentiment against law enforcement, it is difficult to find enough qualified applicants. This MAY result in a swing back towards accepting applicants without a degree. Some depts will hire you without it, but, then require you to get it within a certain amount of time, or else lose your job.
"I don't want to . . . ." is different than not having the means to be able to do so. Law enforcement is a quasi-military environment, and there's not a lot of room for "I don't want to. . . " I didn't want to arrest the guy who was trying to go to his father's funeral, or the teen who was trafficking drugs to pay her college tuition. I didn't want to stand outside at 2 a.m. in the dead of winter for "traffic control" when there was no traffic. I didn't want to have to supervise an officer who was friends with the chief. . . and the list goes on. You will always have to do something you don't want to do, now's as good a time as any to start learning to do those things (with a smile on your face!) to the best of your ability.
My recommendation is to consider military service, in the required Law Enforcement Occupational Specialty. (see link above for list of accepted specialties). You will learn a lot, and military experience looks good on a resume. Additionally, you could start exploring which states do not require a college degree. But, keep in mind, even though the state doesn't mandate it, agencies within the state are free to have higher standards, so if you find states that don't require degrees, look at agencies within the state and see if the do or don't.
Best of luck to you!
Kim
Your advice was so helpful!
Archived
Thanks for the advice.
Girls
Kim's advice is practical and straight to the point. She highlights that while a degree is often required, military service in a law enforcement specialty can be a strong alternative. It's also smart to consider departments in states with less rigid educational requirements.
Mr. Trish
Mr. Trish
12
Answers
Updated
Mr.’s Answer
Hey Payton! It’s awesome that you're looking into a career in law enforcement! You’re right to want to know the prerequisites before diving in. Here’s the scoop:
In Minnesota (and many other places), you don’t necessarily need a 4-year degree to become a police officer. A high school diploma or GED is the basic requirement, but there are some additional qualifications to keep in mind. Some departments may require at least a 2-year degree, especially in criminal justice, or some prior military experience. But if you’re not keen on college, you can also look into joining the military in a law enforcement specialty, which could give you some relevant experience and skills to transition into law enforcement.
If you do decide to skip the college route, keep in mind that some departments may still require you to get a degree after being hired, or they may have other pathways like academy training. If you’re determined to bypass school altogether, it’s a good idea to research local police departments to see what their specific requirements are, as these can vary.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the best path that suits you and your goals. Whether it’s joining the military, looking into community college programs that focus on criminal justice, or finding a state or department that doesn’t require a degree right off the bat, there are plenty of ways to get there!
Hope that helps, and good luck as you pursue this career! 🚓
In Minnesota (and many other places), you don’t necessarily need a 4-year degree to become a police officer. A high school diploma or GED is the basic requirement, but there are some additional qualifications to keep in mind. Some departments may require at least a 2-year degree, especially in criminal justice, or some prior military experience. But if you’re not keen on college, you can also look into joining the military in a law enforcement specialty, which could give you some relevant experience and skills to transition into law enforcement.
If you do decide to skip the college route, keep in mind that some departments may still require you to get a degree after being hired, or they may have other pathways like academy training. If you’re determined to bypass school altogether, it’s a good idea to research local police departments to see what their specific requirements are, as these can vary.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the best path that suits you and your goals. Whether it’s joining the military, looking into community college programs that focus on criminal justice, or finding a state or department that doesn’t require a degree right off the bat, there are plenty of ways to get there!
Hope that helps, and good luck as you pursue this career! 🚓
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Actually Payton, only a high school diploma or GED equivalency is required to become a police officer, although some agencies may require additional college credits or a full degree depending on the jurisdiction and desired position within the department; meaning a higher education can be beneficial for career advancement.
ADDITIONAL MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Additional minimum requirements in becoming a police officer include minimum age, citizenship or residency and education, passing required examinations, completing basic training and choosing a specific area of specialty like state trooper or county sheriff.
• Be at least 21 years old
• United States citizenship or residency
• Pass reading and writing assessment
• Pass oral communication assessment
• Pass FBI finger printing
• Pass advanced background check
• Complete and pass medical and psychological evaluations by a licensed physician and psychologist that the police department employees.
PASS REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS
There are exams in the minimum requirements section, but there are other exams for an individual to pass to go onto basic training, during and after you earn the role. Once you apply to the police department, they can schedule an interview time with you to ask you questions while assessing your moral answers to the questions. This can give them an indication of if you have good moral character.
COMPLETE BASIC TRAINING
Once you pass the exams, you can enroll in basic training. Depending on the police department you apply to work at, they may hire you and then enroll you in basic training within their organization. Other departments may send you to an outsourced organization to complete your basic training. During your basic training programs, you learn a variety of knowledge and skills required to do your job well and keep yourself and others safe.
TIME COMMITMENT
can take anywhere between six months to a year to complete the hiring process. Completing a basic police academy prior to your hiring is dependent on the agency you apply to. Some will only hire upon completion of the academy; others hire you and then send you through the academy afterward. Check with the agency you’re applying to for further information.
POLICE OFFICER TRAINING
Once trainees have graduated from the police academy, you can begin working for the police force on a conditional basis. New officers are placed on a 12-month probationary period in which they work as a police officer but receive continuous training from more experienced officers on a daily basis. After your probationary period, you can take on a permanent position. Depending on the department you have chosen to work for, you may also be able to obtain additional training, acquire new skills and receive performance reviews that can help you advance your way into higher-ranking positions and police specialties.
CONCLUSION
After a probationary period, most officers can advance based on job performance and scores on written examinations. Individuals might be required to have a bachelor’s degree to qualify for some promotions. Career advancement might involve work in specialized areas, such as homicide or juveniles.
Hope this was helpful Payton
ADDITIONAL MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Additional minimum requirements in becoming a police officer include minimum age, citizenship or residency and education, passing required examinations, completing basic training and choosing a specific area of specialty like state trooper or county sheriff.
• Be at least 21 years old
• United States citizenship or residency
• Pass reading and writing assessment
• Pass oral communication assessment
• Pass FBI finger printing
• Pass advanced background check
• Complete and pass medical and psychological evaluations by a licensed physician and psychologist that the police department employees.
PASS REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS
There are exams in the minimum requirements section, but there are other exams for an individual to pass to go onto basic training, during and after you earn the role. Once you apply to the police department, they can schedule an interview time with you to ask you questions while assessing your moral answers to the questions. This can give them an indication of if you have good moral character.
COMPLETE BASIC TRAINING
Once you pass the exams, you can enroll in basic training. Depending on the police department you apply to work at, they may hire you and then enroll you in basic training within their organization. Other departments may send you to an outsourced organization to complete your basic training. During your basic training programs, you learn a variety of knowledge and skills required to do your job well and keep yourself and others safe.
TIME COMMITMENT
can take anywhere between six months to a year to complete the hiring process. Completing a basic police academy prior to your hiring is dependent on the agency you apply to. Some will only hire upon completion of the academy; others hire you and then send you through the academy afterward. Check with the agency you’re applying to for further information.
POLICE OFFICER TRAINING
Once trainees have graduated from the police academy, you can begin working for the police force on a conditional basis. New officers are placed on a 12-month probationary period in which they work as a police officer but receive continuous training from more experienced officers on a daily basis. After your probationary period, you can take on a permanent position. Depending on the department you have chosen to work for, you may also be able to obtain additional training, acquire new skills and receive performance reviews that can help you advance your way into higher-ranking positions and police specialties.
CONCLUSION
After a probationary period, most officers can advance based on job performance and scores on written examinations. Individuals might be required to have a bachelor’s degree to qualify for some promotions. Career advancement might involve work in specialized areas, such as homicide or juveniles.
Hope this was helpful Payton
Thank you for the advice.
Archived
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Payton !
You will not need a college degree in order to become a police officer. Those that do enter with a Bachelors Degree do have an edge for promotions as well as having certain classwork waived at the Police Academy.
In your state of Minnesota, it will take 14-16 weeks training at the Police Academy. After training at the Police Academy, you will have a five month Field Training. College is not needed but you will benefit greatly if you decide to attend college for a degree in Administration of Justice.
You will not need a college degree in order to become a police officer. Those that do enter with a Bachelors Degree do have an edge for promotions as well as having certain classwork waived at the Police Academy.
In your state of Minnesota, it will take 14-16 weeks training at the Police Academy. After training at the Police Academy, you will have a five month Field Training. College is not needed but you will benefit greatly if you decide to attend college for a degree in Administration of Justice.
Thank you!
Girls
Hello, Payton - I am sorry that I advised that you didn't need a college degree to be a police officer in your town, it turns out that you do. I always encourage getting a degree for anyone going into to the Administration of Justice.
Michelle M.