NCJ Number
208281
Journal
Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies and Management Volume: 27 Issue: 4 Dated: 2004 Pages: 469-486
Editor(s)
Lawrence R. Travis III
Date Published
2004
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the issue of whether a college education is necessary for today’s police officers, with a recommendation for required college education overtime.
Abstract
For many years, there has been a debate over whether a college education for police officers is desirable or even necessary. Today, this question has resurfaced with more intensity due to the ever-expanding complexity of the police role and the transition to community policing. This article focuses on the evolution of higher education in policing, the long-term debate over its importance, social and technological change, and the complexity of the contemporary police role. The article concludes by advocating a requirement for a bachelor’s degree for police officers and the implications associated with such a requirement. The final analysis indicates enough evidence to support a strong argument for a college-degree requirement for entry-level police officers. However, a graduated timetable is recommended. References