Detectives and Criminal Investigators

This career isn’t as exciting as it is on TV, it can have its moments. Detectives investigate crimes and search and apprehend criminals. Detectives spend their days following up on crimes that have already been committed. Detectives do a crime scene investigation; they collect evidence, witness interviews, report writing, record keeping, courtroom testimonies, arrest criminals and etc.  Detectives can work every day depending on the agency; they don’t have shifts like police officers do. Detectives specialize in specific crimes including crimes against a person, property crimes, homicide, sex crimes and white collar crimes.

Many agencies only require a high school diploma, others may insist you to have an associate’s degree or some college, maybe even a bachelor’s degree. There are many degrees that can help prepare you for this career but the most common ones are criminology and criminal justice.  You have to get hired as a police officer and then later get a promotion or transfer to become a detective.

By 2018, the bureau anticipates there will be around 130,000 detectives employed

Detectives make about $36,500-$97,000

The salaries depend on the location and the agency. Detectives with more experience usually make more than the younger ones.  

Reflection:

I'm really interested in this career. Ive wanted to be a criminal investigator since i was a kid. I watch shows that have to do with this career and i feel like this career is for me. I really want to help make a difference in the world. With this job, i bet i can help people a little everyday. I have the urge to help people, i feel like i have to do it.