Detectives and investigators share similar goals but play different roles. Learn how their responsibilities, methods and work settings differ — and why both are essential in solving cases and uncovering the truth.
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While detectives and investigators both conduct investigations, their roles differ in several important ways. Detectives typically work within the criminal justice system at the federal, state or local level and focus on criminal cases. In contrast, private investigators are hired by private clients and may handle a broader range of issues, not limited to criminal matters. As a result, their responsibilities, authority and career paths can vary significantly.
If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in criminal justice, it can be helpful to learn more about the differences between a detective and an investigator. In this guide, you’ll explore the differences between the roles and career paths of investigators and detectives.
Either of these roles can offer a career you may find meaningful that allows you to help other people. To determine which path is right for you, consider your interests and career goals. If you would like to open your own business someday, consider becoming a private investigator. On the other hand, if you prefer the thought of rising through the ranks of a police department, then consider exploring the requirements to enter a police academy.
Before making your decision, it’s important to take a closer look at the differences between these two careers and what a typical day in the life of a detective vs. investigator might look like. Consider signing up for job shadowing opportunities or internships.
Another important step to take is to explore degree programs and certifications that could align with your career goals. Regardless of whether you decide to pursue a career in law enforcement or private investigations, a justice studies degree can provide a solid foundation in core concepts for these fields.
At Grand Canyon University, you can earn a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies degree. Explore competencies in criminology, analytical investigation techniques, victimology and more. Fill out the form on this page to speak with a university counselor about your options at GCU.
At larger law enforcement agencies, detectives may specialize according to the type of case they typically work on. For example, homicide detectives investigate murders.
Other types of detectives include:
As mentioned earlier, law enforcement agency detectives handle only criminal cases. In contrast, a private investigator (PI) can handle just about any kind of private investigation—from insurance claims to corporate fraud to infidelity. The possibilities include criminal and civil cases as well as personal matters, such as the following:
These are just a few examples of the variety of cases a PI may investigate. Private investigators may work for a PI agency or start their own agency.1
To do their job properly, private investigators can benefit from having a thorough understanding of investigation techniques, as well as skills like:3
Career requirements vary, but it’s common for employers to require a bachelor’s degree. Most states require private investigators to obtain a license, and licensure requirements vary by state. Many private investigators have prior experience in law enforcement or the military.3
There is a significant difference between law enforcement detectives and private investigators. However, keep in mind that sometimes criminal detectives are called investigators because they are investigating a crime. These criminal detectives may work on a variety of cases for law enforcement agencies, such as fraud and missing persons.
More often the job title investigator refers to a private investigator. There is a substantial difference between detectives and private investigators. A detective is employed by a law enforcement agency, such as a city police department. In contrast, a private investigator is hired privately by individuals and private companies to conduct investigations.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences between detectives vs. investigators:
A detective who works for a law enforcement agency at the local, state or federal level is typically a plainclothes officer (rather than a uniformed patrol officer) who is responsible for responding to crime scenes. The detective collects evidence, interviews witnesses and investigates suspects in an effort to solve crimes. Detectives also testify in court in support of cases they investigated.
Plainclothes detectives typically handle felony cases. For example, rather than investigating the shoplifting of a $10 item, they investigate more serious crimes, such as murder cases. A detective’s caseload might include the following types of cases:
In small police departments, detectives may handle quite a wide spectrum of cases. In larger departments, detectives typically specialize. For example, a detective who primarily investigates murder cases is a homicide detective.
The requirements to become a detective vary by jurisdiction. Some employers prefer detectives to hold a bachelor’s degree, such as a degree in criminal justice, although there are no specific degree requirements. Typically, future officers are required to complete a police officer training academy and then gain on-the-job experience before pursuing a position as a detective.2
