Employment of police and detectives is projected to grow 4 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations.
While a continued desire for public safety is expected to result in a need for more officers, demand for employment is expected to vary depending on location, driven largely by local and state budgets. Even with crime rates falling in the last few years, demand for police services to maintain and improve public safety is expected to continue.
Job Prospects
Overall job prospects are expected to be good. Applicants with a bachelor's degree and law enforcement or military experience, especially investigative experience, as well as those who speak more than one language, should have the best job opportunities.
Because the level of government spending determines the level of employment for police and detectives, the number of job opportunities can vary from year to year and from place to place.
Police and Detectives
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Total, all occupations
7%
Police and detectives
4%
Law enforcement workers
4%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
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