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careertrend Detectives in California work within a specialized unit of the police department, investigating crimes. Detectives spend most of their time collecting and analyzing evidence, conducting interviews of witnesses and interrogating suspects and piecing together information to solve a crime. Requirements for detectives in California usually vary among city and local police departments, however most require a college degree, experience as a patrol officer, passing a written exam and accepting a transfer to a unit with a detective slot. Work as a police officer. All departments in California usually require a detective to have anywhere from three to five years experience as a police officer, before he or she may transfer to or apply for a detective slot. Candidates will need to get hired as a police officer through the individual department's selection process, which usually includes passing a variety of tests that may include a written exam, physical-fitness test, medical check-up, psychological exam and graduation from the department's police academy. All departments have varying requirements and selection processes, therefore candidates must contact the department they want to work for and inquire. Graduate with a college education while working as a police officer by attending classes while not at work or by taking distance education courses. Some detective units require candidates to have at least 60 hours of college credit, preferably in criminal justice or forensic science before they will consider an application. Other units may require all detectives to have a bachelor’s degree. Police officers should inquire within their individual department regarding requirements to become a detective. Apply for an open position or request a transfer to an open detective slot. Most police departments seek to promote officers to detective internally, rather than seeking detectives from other forces. In order to transfer, most departments will request the officer to write a letter of intent and submit to the detective unit he or she intends on transferring. When a slot becomes available, the police may then undergo the selection process for detective, which usually requires passing a written exam, retaking the physical fitness and medical test and taking a psychological test. Upon completing and passing all tests according to the department and unit standards, the police officer may then be transferred. TipIn addition to solving crimes, detectives may also find themselves speaking to the public in schools and other public forums to educate the public about crime and crime prevention. When attending college, students should take public speaking courses in anticipation of this part of the job. References Tips
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Download Article Download Article Are you ready to become a detective or start a career in private investigation? Detective work can be exciting, but it also requires discipline, perseverance, and long hours spent following leads and waiting for developments. Here, we'll review the requirements for the two main types of detectives: police detectives and private detectives. If you want to fight crime and solve cases, read our guide on how to prepare for your future as a detective. Things You Should Know
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See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement ReferencesAbout This ArticleArticle SummaryX To be a good police detective, focus on developing the characteristics of a good detective, such as excellent communication skills and the ability to notice small details. Then, work as a police officer to get hands-on experience and develop your investigating skills. Additionally, stay physically fit and up-to-date on the latest forensics techniques so that you’re ready to take the detective test as soon as a position opens up. You should also consider learning another language, such as Spanish, that would be helpful in the community you want to work in. For advice on how to become a private detective without being a police officer first, read on! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 478,689 times. Reader Success Stories
Did this article help you?How long does it take to become a detective at LA?Police Officers are eligible to compete in the Police Sergeant or Police Detective examinations after four years of service. Promotion from Police Officer may be either to Police Detective or to Police Sergeant. A promotion may also be accomplished between Detective and Sergeant.
How do you become a California detective?Requirements for Licensure. Be 18 or older.. Undergo a criminal history background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). ... . Have at least three years (2,000 hours each year, totaling 6,000 hours) of compensated experience in investigative work;. How hard is it to be a detective?It is fairly difficult to become a detective. While the path to becoming a police detective may vary, generally, after obtaining a high school diploma or GED, it can take anywhere from five to eight years to be promoted from a police officer to a detective.
Can you become a detective straight away?Overview. Joining us on our Degree Holder Entry Programme provides you with a direct route in to a career as a detective constable, without first undertaking a role in uniform policing. As a detective you will deal with serious and complex investigations, uncovering the truth and analysing evidence on cases.
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