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FBI Agents

Education and Training Requirements

High School

A high school diploma, or its equivalent, is required. The FBI does not recommend specific courses for high school students. Rather, the bureau encourages students to do the best work they can. Since FBI agents perform a variety of work, numerous academic disciplines are needed. Useful classes include English, foreign languages, speech, writing, government, mathematics, and social studies.

Postsecondary Training

All special agent candidates must hold have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of full-time professional work experience, or have an advanced degree and at least one year of full-time professional work experience. They must have attended a college or university that is accredited by one of the regional or national institutional associations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The FBI is looking for candidates with a wide variety of backgrounds, not just law enforcement or military experience. According to its Web site, the FBI "seeks special agents with any occupation that requires a college degree. Specifically, we look for expertise in physical science, computer science, engineering, architecture, law, accounting, and other disciplines that require logical analysis and critical thinking. We’re also actively seeking special agents who are fluent in critical foreign languages, as well as those with experience in intelligence and counterterrorism work. Study a field you enjoy and, after that, obtain experiences that will demonstrate your ability to master the special agent core competencies, specifically: collaboration, communication, flexibility/adaptability, initiative, interpersonal ability, leadership, organizing/planning, and problem solving/judgment."

All candidates must complete a rigorous application process. For those who successfully complete the written tests and interview, the FBI conducts a thorough background investigation that includes credit and criminal record checks; interviews with associates; contact with personal and business references; interviews with past employers and neighbors; and verification of educational achievements. Drug testing and a physical examination are required. A polygraph examination is also required. The completed background investigation is then considered when the final hiring decision is made.

New hires train for 18 weeks at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Agent trainees study academic and investigative subjects, and trainees also focus on physical fitness, defensive tactics, and firearms training. Emphasis is placed on developing investigative techniques, as well as skills in interviewing, interrogation, and gathering intelligence information. Agent trainees are tested on their defensive tactics, firearms and weapon handling, physical fitness, and arrest techniques. They must also pass academic exams and obey certain rules and regulations during the training. If the trainees pass the tests at the academy and receive their credentials, they become special agents and are assigned to serve a two-year probationary period at an FBI field office.

During the first months of employment, the novice agent is guided by a veteran special agent who will help show how the lessons learned at the academy can be applied on the job. Assignments are determined by the individual's special skills and the current needs of the FBI. As a part of their duties, special agents may be required to relocate during their careers.

Other Education or Training

The education and training of FBI agents continue throughout their career. FBI agents are always expected to learn new techniques and better methods in criminal investigation, either through experience on the job, advanced study courses, in-service training, or special conferences. Many of these opportunities are provided by the FBI.

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