Community Police Officer

Education Requirements

Some Employers Require

A bachelor's degree in any subject.

Some Employers Prefer

Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Criminology, Criminal Justice, Law, Law and Security, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology or other Social Science subject.

Career Pathway Advice

Before Graduation

• Gain Work Experiences. (e.g., Co-op Education, Internships, Work Integrated Learning).
• Be Curious. Ask questions about the work environment and day-to-day tasks of a job. This includes reaching out to professionals in the field, faculty, counsellors/advisors, neighbours and friends.
• Develop Power Skills. (e.g., oral and written communication, teamwork & leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation & creativity, and engaging diversity).
• Know Your Transferable Skills. Understand how the skills you are learning in your program meet or transfer to the requirements of your intended job.
• Develop Digital Literacy. Be able to find, communicate, create, and edit files online (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe).
• Be Grade Point Average (GPA) Aware. This means knowing that future employers care about the GPA of students they plan to invest their resources in.
• Pursue Mentorship and Network Opportunities. (e.g., information interviews, developing relationships with someone working in the field, joining professional organizations, job shadowing, or volunteering).
• Prepare Your Job Search Documents. (e.g., LinkedIn profile, CV/Resume, cover letter, and portfolio).
• Practice your Interview Skills. Research common interview questions employers use, develop short stories you can use to demonstrate your skills and experience, and seek help from a career centre, family, or friends to do mock interviews.

After Graduation

• Show enthusiasm and drive for further formal training needed by your employer. This may take the form of a structured training program or courses that leads to an industry credential.
• Seek mentorship from co-workers and supervisors.
• Build network relationships with other industry professionals.
• Keep your jobs search documents updated.
• Build your brand by using social media, LinkedIn and professional membership or associations.

Spotlight Requirements

• Completion of police officer training is needed. This training is typically between three to six months.
• Extensive experience, specialized training and/or certification may be needed for certain areas of policing.

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