Degree Overview: Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) Degree in Police Science
Majors Overview March 24, 2014Those working in corrections and law enforcement should look into the practical skills and advanced education that a Bachelor of Professional Studies (B.P.S.) in Police Science program can offer. Those that graduate will be prepared for jobs as parole officers, detectives, DEA agents and police officers.
B.P.S. Programs in Police Science
Working professionals can enroll in a bachelor’s degree program in Police Science to prepare for the challenges that plague the law enforcement field. Students are taught how to prevent, investigate and fight crime, using current methods. The program also involves exploration of leadership skills and strategic procedures necessary in the management of government and local law enforcement resources. To make the program convenient for working professionals, schools typically offer distance, weekend and night courses.
Education Requirements
Proof of employment as a police professional and letters of recommendation are required to be provided by incoming students who need to have two years of relevant work experience. Completion of college-level English classes is a requirement though a prior college degree is not insisted on.
Coursework
Coursework includes every facet of police work; students are provided with solid peacekeeping, management and leadership skills. Coursework also incorporates classes in international affairs, public health and sociology and may include topic areas such as:
•Terrorism
•Domestic violence
•Emergency planning
•Resource management
•Public health concerns
•Crisis management
•Behavioral science
•Criminal justice
•Crisis communications and public relations
•Police systems comparison
Career Choices
The bachelor’s degree program is devised to equip graduates with the technical experience and advanced knowledge needed to seek various jobs in law enforcement and related fields. They can choose from career options such as:
•Highway patrol officer
•Parole officer
•DEA agent
•Police officer
•Corrections officer
Job and Wage Outlook
A slower-than-average job growth rate of 5% has been predicted for police officers and detectives over the 2012-2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)). In May 2012, police and sheriff’s patrol officers earned an average annual salary of $57,770 (BLS); while the least-paid 10% of these professionals took home an average annual wage of $32,350, the corresponding figure for the highest paid 10% was $89,310.
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates of a bachelor’s degree program in Police Science may choose to join the workforce or opt for continued education by earning a master’s degree. They can choose from many available options based on their area of interest. A master’s degree in Criminal Justice is best suited for those interested in academic or supervisory pursuits, in law enforcement. Earning a master’s degree in Law Studies would be suitable for those who want to become an attorney.
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