However, a college degree isn't the only way you can show a future employer that you have similar qualities. But law enforcement recruiters also know that applicants who've had college experience are going to be better equipped to handle growth and change as law enforcement become more and more sophisticated in its strategies, methods, and technologies. A group of officers across the nation have formed a nonprofit organization known as the American Police Association, a professional organization for college-educated officers. Many police employers will add a bonus to starting base salaries, usually after you successfully complete academy training. When you contact your local agency, you can ask the recruiter about this type of bonus.
Many departments offer a tuition reimbursement program as well.
Some departments make it even easier to attend college by permitting supervisors to adjust your work shifts and schedules so that you can attend classes. Other agencies offer scholarships or other financial incentives not only for college classes, but also for advanced state certification courses and certain in-service training programs. However and whenever you can manage it, your best chance to stay competitive for the best jobs and promotions in law enforcement is to get a quality education.