Being a law enforcement officer presents a range of challenges and dangers. Though the police are often scorned by lawbreakers, they keep communities safe. Without them, societies will dissolve to vigilantism, crime, and chaos. They are the force that separates law or order from lawlessness. They are an essential part of a civilized world. If you want to pursue a degree in law enforcement, policing, and investigation, you should enroll in an online college that offers these courses.

Many law enforcement agencies accept people with high school diplomas. But if you want to take your career further, it is important to complete a Bachelor’s Degree. Basically, the higher level of education you have, the better your position becomes.

Online Degrees in Law Enforcement, Policing, & Investigation

Law Enforcement, Policing, & Investigation is a specialty under Criminal Justice. You can get an Associates, Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate degree in this field. Having a higher degree qualifies you for a career as a US Marshal, FBI agent, US Secret Service, or even a Customs agent. Supervisory roles are also given to people with the most education and/or experience.

Career Outlook

There are many opportunities available in the fields of Law Enforcement, Policing, & Investigation. In fact, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the job market will grow by 11% through 2016. Meanwhile, the demand for private detectives will increase by 18%.

Salary-wise, many Law Enforcement, Policing, & Investigation graduates earn around $47,000 while their supervisors have a median salary of $69,000. Criminal investigators have a salary of around $58,000.