When you work as a state trooper, you will be given the important duty to protect members of society. This may require pulling drunk drivers over to the side of the road, or it may involve making house calls to frightened individuals in the midst of a robbery. You may need to gather evidence at the scene of a crime. You will always have to respond to dispatch calls that you receive from a local law enforcement agency. Maybe you have wondered, “How do I become a state trooper?” When you want to become a state trooper, it is essential for you to obtain a college degree.
What’s it like to be a state trooper?
When you become a state trooper, you will have the opportunity to protect vulnerable people in society. It will be your job to be on the watch for any suspicious behavior of individuals in public areas. You may need to confront individuals who exhibit suspicious behavior. You should have a confident demeanor if you want to become a state trooper. You should also have the ability to work well with conflicting personalities. When you become a state trooper, you should have the ability to diffuse suspects who are angry and defensive. You may find that people become very confrontational upon being arrested for a crime. You should know how to deal with these sorts of situations. As a state trooper, you may be called upon to work late hours every now and then. You may be the only officer who is on duty and can report to the scene of a crime.
Education Requirements
To become a state trooper, you should obtain a four-year bachelor’s degree. It is essential for you to study a subject like criminal justice or legal studies. You should try to learn as much about the law enforcement process as possible during your time in college. You may also need to receive training from a police academy. You should check the laws of your state to determine whether you will need to receive additional training. Most states require that you undergo a rigorous police training program at the local law enforcement agency. While you are completing the training requirements, you may need to live on the site of the training center. You will then need to pass the state exam in order to receive your license to become a state trooper.
When you want to become a state trooper, it is also a good idea to contact a human resources department to understand what the requirements for the position are. Law enforcement agencies may have different requirements for a state trooper position. There also may be degrees that certain law enforcement agencies prefer that you obtain during your years in college. You should always inquire about these types of degrees.
Salary & How to Get a Job
The average salary of a state trooper is about $55,000 a year. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for state troopers will be slow in the next ten years, individuals who are currently in these positions enjoy great job security. There will only be a 7 percent increase in the demand for state troopers. If you want to obtain a position as a state trooper, it is a good idea to participate in an internship program within a law enforcement agency. This can give you the opportunity to network with individuals who may be in a position to hire you later down the road.
Overall, becoming a state trooper can be a wise decision for individuals who are deeply committed to protecting the best interests of society.
References:
1. http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Protective-Service/Police-and-detectives.htm
2. http://www.ehow.com/how_2289740_become-state-trooper.html