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Published on Jul 15, 2019
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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has a mandate to uphold the U.S. Constitution and protect the American people. The agency accomplishes these goals with diverse teams of professionals from all sorts of backgrounds and with many different skillsets. From intelligence analysis to arts and communications, there is a varied range of opportunities available at the FBI. If you’re earning a BS in Justice Studies, you may find the following positions appealing.
The Special Agent is perhaps the best known career at the FBI. Special Agents are primarily responsible for enforcing federal statutes. They conduct criminal investigations, as well as investigations pertaining to national security. Periodically, Special Agents are required to testify in court.
Before applying, you should know that after your training you may be assigned to any of the agency’s 56 Field Offices or satellite offices. Flexibility is a key trait of successful agents. You should also know that Special Agents work a minimum of 50 hours per week and are on call 24/7/365. In addition, applicants must meet all eligibility requirements for the FBI in general and Special Agents in particular, including the following:
Intelligence Analysts work behind the scenes to keep the country safe. They analyze information, draw conclusions based on evidence and provide recommendations to decision makers. It’s the overarching goal of Intelligence Analysts to identify potential threats before they are brought to fruition. Effective Intelligence Analysts are those with solid collaboration and communication skills, as it’s necessary to maintain partnerships with local, state, federal and international contacts.
Intelligence Analysts should also develop a sharp understanding of the culture, language and history of the regions they focus on. Applicants are subject to automatic disqualifiers for FBI employment. For example, all applicants must be U.S. citizens who have not been convicted of a felony. In addition, all applicants must undergo the Intelligence Analyst Selection Process, which is a rigorous examination of critical thinking, writing and analytical skills.
If you’re thinking about going on to law school after you earn a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies, then you might want to consider a legal career at the FBI. Qualifying applicants must possess a J.D. and be an active member in good standing in the Bar.
Legal professionals who work at the FBI often fulfill advisory roles, providing consultancy on proposed investigations and operations. They work in close collaboration with other professional staff members, including Special Agents and Intelligence Analysts. Legal professionals may also work with international, federal, state and local partners in the intelligence community or in law enforcement.
The pathway toward pursuing your dream career in law enforcement starts with a degree from Grand Canyon University. Our College of Humanities and Social Sciences is pleased to offer the Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies, which focuses on topics such as threat assessment, criminal behavior and victimology. To learn more about the college and its programs, visit our website or click on the Request More Information button at the top of this page.
