HOW MANY YEARS OF COLLEGE DO I NEED TO BECOME A HOMICIDE DETECTIVE?
Are you ready to find your fit?
A homicide detective has a very interesting yet challenging law enforcement career. This job typically entails spending time at a crime scene, collecting physical evidence and coordinating an investigation. Being a detective working homicides usually involves interviewing witnesses, gathering information about suspects, and performing data research.
See our ranking of the 50 Best Value Colleges for a Criminal Justice Degree.
The Internal Path to This Career
In order to become eligible for work as a detective specializing in homicides, a person must first put in at least three years as a police officer. There is a competitive exam to pass, which will then provide the choice of becoming either a sergeant or detective.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
Educational Requirements
The first step to a career as a homicide detective is to become a police officer. A potential police officer must hold, at the minimum, a high school diploma or its equivalent. Those who feel confident that they wish to pursue a career in detective work have a better chance at succeeding if they have completed some college courses or, preferably, have a criminal justice degree.
Criminal justice degree programs get students ready for their police academy training and the subsequent work involved in becoming a murder investigator. Some of the types of courses offered in a criminal justice or law enforcement program may include:
- Criminology
- Legal procedures
- Forensics
- Corrections
- Criminal law
- Legal research
- Court systems
- Investigative techniques
It typically takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Working for the federal government in this capacity requires a bachelor’s degree. Many law enforcement agencies now also require a bachelor’s degree, though for some, an associate degree is sufficient. An associate degree entails at least two years of coursework. Other bachelor’s or associate degrees that may be acceptable (other than criminal justice) are in related fields, such as forensic science.
Jobs Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, police and detective employment rates are projected to increase 7 percent over the next eight years, resulting in 53,400 new jobs by the year 2026. The median annual salary for detectives and criminal investigators is currently $79,970. Job benefits are usually extensive, with an option to retire at an age earlier than the common retirement age for most other workers. Having a college degree can mean a higher salary and better job opportunities in many police departments. Most police officers and detectives also belong to a strong union that offers more benefits and job protection. A detective working on homicide cases mostly find employment within their local police departments, though there is also work on the state or federal government levels, too.
Other helpful skills and experience that a homicide investigator should possess include good communication skills, having an objective point of view and the patience to work through the sometimes long and emotional process of solving a murder. Having a four-year criminal justice degree gives most patrol officers a strong advantage when a promotion to homicide detective is desired.
Get prepared for your next steps
Use articles and resources to uncover answers to common questions, get guidance on your goals, and learn about applying to schools.

Resources for Students with a Learning Disability
The transition from high school student to college student should be exciting. Going from life in a high school to living and learning on a college campus can mean more freedom, more responsibility, and more fun. That transition isn’t always easy for students with learning disabilities, though, as they may feel more anxious about this […]

What Can You Do With a Masters in Psychology?
Wondering what can you do with a master’s in psychology? A master’s degree in psychology typically prepares people to enter counseling professions and pass state licensure requirements. It also opens...

Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Programs 2021
A child development degree trains students to support children and young learners as they grow. With a degree in child development, professionals can pursue careers as preschool directors, child life specialists, and kindergarten teachers. Earning a child development degree generally takes four years of full-time study. Learners typically study topics like infant and toddler development, […]
Discover a program that is right for you.
Explore different options for you based on your degree interests.