Major: Law Enforcement Administration
Have you ever wondered what really goes on at the local police station -- the way it runs, day to day? Are you a “big picture” person with a managerial streak? If so, you may want to consider a major in law enforcement administration. You’ll get the lowdown on how law enforcement agencies operate, and learn what it takes to manage them, from budgeting to staffing.
Law enforcement administration majors learn how to manage and direct police departments, sheriff’s departments, and other law enforcement agencies and institutions.
“I like the challenge of balancing the needs and expectations of the staff, the community members, the city council, and the city manager.”
Lynne, Police Chief
Are You Ready To...?
- Study the way criminals behave
- Sharpen your managerial skills by leading in student government or another campus group
- Learn about budgets and schedules
- Study the U.S. Constitution
It Helps to Be...
The kind of person who likes to be in the director’s chair, not just a member of the crew. You’ll need to be a good problem solver, a clear communicator, and have great people skills. A desire to work within the legal system to see justice served is key.
College Checklist
- Will the department help you find internships with law enforcement agencies at various levels of government (local, county, state, federal)?
- Is there an active campus chapter of Lambda Alpha Epsilon, the American Criminal Justice Association?
- Does the college hold criminal justice job fairs or help students find work in other ways?
Did You Know?
- Crime control is more of a global issue than ever before, so learning a second language may give you an edge in the job market.
Course Spotlight
There’s a good chance that you’ll take an ethics class while working toward your degree. You’ll study the ethics surrounding typical law enforcement issues, such as the use of force and racial profiling. You’ll also learn how to use ethical tools to come up with smart solutions to policing problems. And get ready to do some serious research; you’ll probably be asked to write a paper that describes an ethics problem faced by a real police force and gives your opinion of the solution.
