Roger
New Member
Posts: 1
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Post by Roger on Nov 13, 2001 4:08:56 GMT -5
In the next few months I will be starting graduate school and I am really confused to which program I should pursue. I have applied to a Masters in Criminal Justice and Masters in Sociology with a Crime, Law, and Deviance emphasis. I assume that Criminal Justice would be the best way to go but if I pursue the Masters in Sociology I may have an oppertunity to obtain a PHD. What would you guys think would be most beneficial in a career in law enforcement.
any kind of advice will be greatly appreciated Thankyou
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Post by 'Guest' on Nov 13, 2001 11:56:33 GMT -5
I don't know what your career intentions are, but, I would not assume that more education equals better job prospects. From what I understand, for police agencies, is that a highly educated applicant is like a catch 22; they are more than smart enough for the job, but they tend to get bored with policing earlier than others. I know of a situation where a lawyer, an anthropoligist, and even a medical doctor were hired by an agency where I live. All three were gone in three years, and I think that's what some agencies are afraid of. I am not saying limit your educational potential, but I think that is largely the reality. Good work in the school end of it!
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Post by Charlie on Nov 17, 2001 11:53:15 GMT -5
Roger--I am by no means an education or employment expert. But I am willing to present my personal view and opinion concerning your dilema. First and foremost, one's education level is an important consideration when it comes to assessing one's overall qualifications. Obviously, it is likely someone with a higher level of education is preferred over someone with less. As for which field is better of the two that you've given, I think part of the answer is WHAT sort of career you you plan on getting into? if you are strictly looking at a LE career, than either field of study should be OK. On the other ahnd, i would say the Sociology major would be preferred because of the greater flexibility it affords towards a variety of other career fields outside of law enforcement. Bottom line equates to what do YOU want to do specifically. Figure that out but no matter what you decide, my vote is the Sociology degree will do you justice (greater flexibility) in or outside the LE profession. Especially since you can obtain a PhD. Down the road, I suspect you could utilize the degree you've earned to become some sort of forensic expert with a given LE agency. I think the Feds would love to have you if you have a PhD.  No matter what you decide, good luck! Charlie |
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Post by 'Guest' on Nov 23, 2001 19:09:02 GMT -5
Go for It! But in all honesty, I hope you're looking for an investigative agency or to teach, more so than just being a patrol officer!Most Police officers range from H.S. Grad w/ military to Assoc. Degrees or Bachelors degrees. The M.A. or M.S. Degree is good only above the Sgts. level, as most officers promote to Lt. or Capt level.That is expected as it is a mgm't level in which you'll be expected to write policy, confer with gov't entities and officials,etc.I won't go into the education vs. experience issue which has raged off and on on the site before, but realize this-you'll probably be interviewed by officers/detectives/sgts with maybe just 2 yr degrees and some may judge you as " overeducated" to be out a 3am picking drunks up from side walks or wrestling around with gangmembers!Nothing is wrong with advancing your education, but make sure the "knowledge" fits the usage
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