Proper schooling for prospective FBI agents is important due to the nature of the job. FBI agents are the investigators of the government, ensuring national the security of the nation. FBI agents inspect violations of federal laws, such as major theft and violent crimes. They also examine white collar crimes and organized crime. FBI agents need the proper background and schooling to work in counterterrorism, intelligence, cyber security and civil rights.
To enter the FBI, you must be between 23 and 36 years of age. For this reason, there is plenty of time to complete schooling requirements. You must obtain a college education to be considered. FBI agents are required to have, at minimum, their bachelor’s degree. Obtaining a master’s degree in a specialized field will also increase your chances of being accepted. You must earn a degree in a relevant field to be considered for the FBI.
Prospective FBI agents should major in fields, such as criminal justice, forensics, information security, computer crimes or the physical sciences, such as biology, chemistry or physics. Other classes and concentrations that will improve your chances include engineering, accounting and finance or foreign languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish and Vietnamese. It is also important to take classes in law, law enforcement and investigation.
In addition to a college education with the proper concentration, prospective FBI agents are required to have at least three to five years of work experience in a related field. Those wishing to work in the investigative side of the FBI should consider working in law enforcement, other areas of criminal justice or gaining military experience. If your goal is to investigate white collar and financial crimes, you must gain experience in the financial sector.
To become an FBI agent, your schooling does not end with your degree. If you are accepted into the FBI’s rigorous training program, you will undergo 850 hours of instruction during a 20 week training process. Instruction will focus on four major areas, including academics, case exercises, firearms training and operational skills. You will also study ethics, techniques for investigation and the operations of the bureau. Prospective agents also undergo examinations, including written, oral, medical and physical, as well as psychological assessments and extensive background checks.