The academic-related and other requirements to join a law enforcement agency and position yourself to potentially pursue advancement opportunities vary considerably from one jurisdiction and level of law enforcement to the next. Since there are no universal requirements, individuals seeking leadership positions should explore the criteria for the specific position they desire in their agency.
No matter which positions you’re seeking or the agency you work for, there are potential benefits of graduate education to consider. These may include:3
- Opportunities to develop advanced or specialized knowledge in law enforcement
- Potential to develop one’s leadership style and skills
- Examination of the latest policing trends, policy changes and technological developments
In addition to the opportunity to examine the criminal justice system at the graduate level, a master’s degree may be intended to help prepare you to seek specific roles. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that applicants who hope to become an FBI special agent may demonstrate less work experience if they also hold a master’s or doctoral degree.4
Graduate Degree Options
There are a few different graduate degree options that you might consider earning if you’re interested in examining advanced topics in law enforcement, such as police leadership styles. For example, you might consider earning a master’s degree in justice studies or a general Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice degree. Depending on the university you choose, you might have the option to choose an emphasis or specialization, such as an MS in Criminal Justice with an Emphasis in Law Enforcement.
At Grand Canyon University, our master’s degree in criminal justice with an emphasis in law enforcement focuses on the key issues facing law enforcement leaders in modern times. It examines the intersection of socioeconomic issues with the law enforcement function and the most effective law enforcement management practices. The curriculum for this degree even takes a look at the intersection of psychology and criminal justice, covering topics such as psychopathology, criminal profiling and crisis intervention.
Additional concepts and competencies taught include:
- Analysis of criminal behavior
- Crime prevention strategies
- Public relationship development
- Organizational planning for law enforcement leaders
- Leadership styles and skills, including conflict management and decision-making
At GCU, all our degree programs emphasize the importance of professional ethics and integrity. We strive to graduate servant leaders who are prepared to make a positive difference not only in the workplace but in the larger community.
Learners who earn a master’s in criminal justice may emerge feeling better prepared to position themselves to potentially pursue career advancement. Some examples of higher-level roles that you might want to consider could include:
- Police supervisor
- Detective supervisor
- Warden
- Correctional officer supervisor
- Probation manager
- Border patrol supervisor
- Manager of juvenile corrections
- Federal agent
