TJ.

Actually, every person I have in my network that are in Law Enforcement highly reccomend you do not get a degree in Criminal Justice or LE due to the fact everyone already has a Criminal Justice degree and with something such as Business, IT Networking, Forestry, etc the Department can use you as an asset having knowledge in one of those fields if an issue arises. Also, they will train you to there standards in the academy therefore your CJ degree isn't that crazy. Just gives you an advantage in the field when it comes to case law.

Hi all! Figured I'd share some great information to you all pertaining to Illinois and how to become a Peace Officer in that state. Currently, I'm active duty military about ready to discharge under honorable conditions in September and I plan on following my childhood dream of becoming a Peace Officer. For those of you from the State of Illinois, you already know that the state is a huge pain in the rear with all the legaility issues when it comes to anything. But here is what I've learned so far. You cannot attend a Police Academy with your own money, you have to be hired, and sponsored by a Police Department prior to going. Law Enforcement jobs in IL. are at a low right now. You need to be somewhat in-shape and pass the P.O.W.E.R. Test. If you live near the Missouri border, you can attend a Missouri Police Academy WITHOUT being hired, or sponsored by a Police Department. You also do not need to be an Missouri resident to attend these academies. The only requirements are a valid drivers license, and of the age of 21. If you do go through a Missouri Police academy, you can transfer your certification to Illinois by taking a 4 hour firearms course, Police and Law online course, and passing a 200 question certification test by the State of Illinois. (Got this answer from the Illinois Director of Training and Standards himself) That's just some stuff I've learned if any of you are from that area, I can answer alot of questions in regards to Illinois Law Enforcement if you all have any questions. The hardest part about becoming a Police Officer in the State of Illinois is getting the initial hire from a Police Department which could be challenging as most well-paying Departments require a Bachelors degree, however, if you have served 4 years of active duty service, a college education is generally waived, just read the fine print! If you all have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I can get the answers you need especially to any of my fellow veterans on here in regards to the GI Bill. Thanks! TJ.