If you are considering becoming a detective, you may be wondering what the benefits are. If you find satisfaction in solving little mysteries detective work may be captivating. Being involved in solving cases and tracking individuals can also be thrilling. You may be searching online for information or you may track people and take part in stakeouts, which some people only see in the movies. With population growth and more crimes happening daily, you would be choosing a career that is growing. New agencies are set up all the time and require many different skills.
The career also has room for advancement, especially in law enforcement detective jobs. Many positions held in the investigative field require some type of experience. You may start as a police officer, then work as a department investigator, and eventually be promoted to a special agent if you work hard. You may from there even enter the FBI or CIA as a special detective. This can mean more money and the great possibility of relocating if that works for you. Seeking Justice can be highly rewarding for detectives both private and involved in law enforcement. The feeling of helping others is enough for many detectives. If you are a private detective, a benefit can be choosing your own cases. You may want to choose by the amount of compensation or level of your own personal interest.
What are the downsides of becoming a detective?
Being a detective in law enforcement or as a private detective can be very time-consuming. While some jobs are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, detective work can be 24 hours a day. When you aren’t working you may find yourself thinking of experiences from your job. You may end up working on holidays and weekends and very long shifts. Sometimes the stresses from work can carry over into your personal life, making even time off seem like it isn’t.
Being a detective keeps you in close contact with many criminals, making the job dangerous. Many high-speed chases, stakeouts, and shootings may occur during your time as a detective. You may witness murders and other terrible events. Law enforcement detectives are usually equipped with protection provided by their job though. That and special training can help avoid dangerous situations and even defuse angry criminals. Private detectives must obtain a license to carry weapons if they are looking at keeping a gun with them, and may want to consider this.
What kind of training is required to become a detective?
This is one of the most important questions to ask when researching how to become a detective. The requirements to become a detective may vary by state, type of detective you want to become, and current job position. To start you would want to make sure you have a high school diploma or GED. In some states and law enforcement agencies, you may be required to hold either a bachelor’s or associate’s degree. Federal and State departments generally require a 4 to 6-year college degree, or must previously be employed in law enforcement for a minimum of 2 years with a clean record. Many law enforcement detective positions are acquired with time. Some of the positions may also require different mental health and physical health exams.
To become a private detective you can attend college or get an online degree. Most degrees are 2-4 years or based on the hours of schooling you take. Once you have graduated you can apply in your state, or states you would like to work in for a Private Detective license. This will allow you to legally work and also allow you to get things such as insurance and other licenses, including one to carry a firearm for protection.