Detectives

There are few means of exploring the field of detective work, and acquiring actual experience in the field prior to employment is unlikely. Some police departments, however, do hire teenagers for positions as police trainees and interns. Additionally, those who are in sixth grade through age 20 can participate in the Learning for Life program (www.exploring.org), which is affiliated with the Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America). Participants in its Law Enforcement Exploring program learn about policing through classroom training and hands-on activities. Both young men and women may participate.

If you are interested in becoming a detective, you should talk with your school counselor, your local police department, local private detective agencies, a private investigation school, or a college or university offering police science, criminal justice, or law enforcement courses. In addition, the FBI operates an Honors Internship Program (https://fbijobs.gov/students-and-graduates) for undergraduate and graduate students that introduces interns to a variety of investigative techniques. Finally, check out PI Magazine (http://www.pimagazine.com) to learn more about a career as a private investigator.