Public Safety
Exploring Careers & Training in Law & Public Safety
- Overall employment in protective service occupations is projected to grow slower than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034. Despite limited employment growth, about 423,600 openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations largely due to the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently.
- The median annual wage for this group was $50,580 in May 2024, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $49,500.
Careers in Public Safety
High School Diploma + Postsecondary Training / Certification
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - Requires completion of an EMT training program and certification.
Firefighter - A high school diploma is required, with additional training and certification needed.
Security Guard - Requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certification may be needed depending on the state or employer. Stadiums & reputable security companies are preferred places to look for work as a security guard.
Customs and Border Protection Officers - Investigate and inspect persons, common carriers, goods, and merchandise, arriving in or departing from the United States.
Corrections Officer - A high school diploma or GED is usually required, with on-the-job training provided.
Associate's Degree
Police Officer - Most departments require an associate’s degree in criminal justice, however some have a minimum of graduating police academy. Some departments have cadet / police aide programs students can apply for right after high school.
Criminal Justice Technician - An associate’s degree in criminal justice or a related field is often required.
Private Investigator - Some positions may require an associate’s degree in criminal justice or a related field, although licensing requirements vary by state.
Bachelor's Degree
Police Detective - Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field, along with significant law enforcement experience.
FBI Agent - Requires a bachelor’s degree, usually in criminal justice, law, or a related field, along with rigorous testing and background checks. The FBI has non-agent careers in many different fields (Cybersecurity, Education, Health, etc.)
Forensic Scientist - Requires a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Crime Scene Investigators will have on the job experience either as a police officer or related field work before they are qualified for a position.
Fire Chief - Usually requires a bachelor’s degree in fire science, public administration, or a related field, along with extensive experience.
Master's Degree or Higher
Judge - Requires a law degree (Juris Doctor) and typically several years of legal experience. Some judges may also hold a master’s degree in a related field.
Criminal Justice Professor - Requires a master's degree or higher in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.
Homeland Security Specialist - Often requires a master’s degree in homeland security, public administration, or a related field, especially for higher-level positions.
Correctional Counselor - Typically requires a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or a related field.
Occupational Profiles Show Us:
- Projected Employment
- Typical Wages
- Education, Certifications, Licensure & Apprenticeships
- Activities, Knowledge, Abilities & Skills
- Related Occupations
I am in High School. How Do I Get Started?
Enroll in a state-approved Career Tech Education (CTE) Program - To get started talk with your school counselor and review your school’s course guide to explore availability and enrollment requirements. Consider courses in Business, Web Design, Graphic Design, Art, Information Technology, and audio/video technology.
Check out this resource to see which CTE (Career Technical Education programs) your school district offers
Police Service Aide Programs
PSA (Police Service Aide) or Cadet positions are a fantastic opportunity for those interested in a law enforcement career. As a service aid, you'll gain valuable skills like communication, career-specific computer knowledge, and an understanding of the court process. If you're studying for a career in law enforcement, why not start now? This program offers hands-on experience, part-time pay, and a great way to get ahead while earning your degree.
Community College Programs in Wayne County
Community colleges are a great place to start your career in Public Safety. Whether studying an associates degree in Criminal Justice (to begin your studies to become a Police Officer, State Trooper, FBI Agent, Lawyer, Judge), Fire Safety, or Emergency Medical Technology (all Police Officers & Firefights must be trained in medical first response). Research the programs below by reviewing required classes and how you'll be prepared.
Community College Programs Outside Wayne County
University Public Safety Programs in Michigan
Most universities offer pubic safety programs. Look for majors in criminal justice, law, pre-law, fire safety, emergency medical responder/services, and other specialty programs. Here are a few university programs in Michigan to explore:
Locate additional In-State Education Programs
Applying for Financial Aid
- Obtain FSA ID
- Complete the FAFSA Form
- Add the FAFSA school code
More Helpful Financial Aid Resources
Scholarships & Grants for Students Pursuing Public Safety
This document includes just a sample of programs available in the Metro-Detroit area. Remember to check websites for program offerings. Your school’s career exploration tools will also highlight a variety of related careers and education and training institutions.
References: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook
Note: Inclusion of a program in our database does not indicate an endorsement by Wayne RESA. The database is for informational purposes only.
Educate.Equip.Elevate.
Department of Workforce Development, CTE, Adult Ed and Career Counseling
