If you're considering a career in law enforcement, getting a head start with online criminology study is a smart move. While you can't become a police officer entirely online, studying criminology with Online Courses Australia can give you the foundational knowledge needed to thrive before joining a Police Academy. Our flexible criminology courses fit around your schedule, and help set you up for success in this rewarding field.
What Does a Police Officer Do?
Police officers maintain public safety, respond to emergencies, enforce laws, and investigate crimes. They play a crucial role in building trust within the community while protecting citizens and property.
Read more: How an Online Criminology Course Can Kickstart Your New Career
Day in the Life of a Police Officer
- Patrolling neighbourhoods and responding to emergency calls
- Investigating crimes and interviewing witnesses
- Writing reports and maintaining accurate case records
- Making arrests and collecting evidence
- Building positive relationships with the community
Police Officer Skills
A career in law enforcement involves a blend of soft skills (skills you likely already have) and hard skills (skills you’d learn through an online course or other criminology career pathways).
Police Officer Soft Skills
- Strong communication skills
- Empathy and understanding
- Critical thinking
- Physical fitness
- Problem-solving abilities
Hard Skills for Police Officer
By undertaking a criminology course, you’ll equip yourself with the relevant practical skills to kick-start your Police Officer career. Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Criminal Law Knowledge: Understand the laws you'll enforce, including how to conduct arrests, gather evidence, and ensure due process.
- Investigation Techniques: Learn how to conduct effective investigations, including interviewing witnesses and suspects, and securing crime scenes.
- Report Writing: Develop skills to write clear, accurate reports that can hold up in court.
- Conflict Resolution: Master de-escalation tactics to resolve disputes peacefully and maintain order.
- Crime Prevention: Learn strategies to prevent crime by engaging with the community and understanding criminal behaviour patterns.
Read more: Criminal Psychology Course FAQS Answered
Police Officer Salary in Australia (2024)
According to Labour Market Insights, community and personal service workers (the overarching industry police officers work within) can earn an annual average salary of $113,776.
Police Officer Employment Outlook
Law enforcement is an incredibly stable career with numerous opportunities in Australia. With new challenges like cybercrime and changing community needs, police officers are needed in various areas, including patrol, investigations, and special units.
According to Jobs & Skills Australia, the job market for community and personal service workers has been steadily growing over the past five years, with the number of workers likely to reach 76,600 by 2026. This means there’s never been a better time to get started in this important community service industry.
How to Become a Police Officer
The requirements to become a police officer vary across Australian states and territories, so it's best to check with the police force in your region for specific details. Generally, Australian police officers must meet the following criteria:
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Citizenship or Permanent Residency Status
You must be an Australian citizen or hold permanent residency status. -
Education Requirements
A high school completion or equivalent may be required in certain states, especially if you're under 21. -
Driver's Licence
A full and valid driver’s licence is necessary. -
First Aid Training
You'll need to complete basic first aid training. -
Work Experience
Demonstrating prior relevant work experience is often helpful. -
Recruitment Process
The recruitment process includes passing an entrance exam, background checks, fitness and psychological tests, health assessments, and a final interview.
These steps are crucial to ensure you’re well-prepared for a career in law enforcement.
An online criminology course can give you a leg up during the application process. By understanding criminal behaviour, investigation techniques, and the justice system through online study, you can build a strong foundation that will help you stand out in testing and interviews.
Read more: Strategies to Succeed in an Online Criminology Course
Start Your Criminology Course Today
Give your policing career a head start by studying criminology online. Learn investigation techniques, criminal law, and crime prevention strategies right from home with Online Courses Australia.
A Curriculum that Works for You
Our courses cover the essentials, from criminal law to community engagement, so you're well-prepared to excel at the Police Academy.
Flexibility on Your Terms
Whether you're wanting to study part-time or full-time, our courses fit your schedule. Forget commuting or strict prerequisites—quality training is just a click away.
Kick-start your law enforcement journey today with Online Courses Australia.
Criminal Psychology Course Bundle Info Pack Download
If you have additional questions about our criminology courses or our full range of courses that cover more than 20 different professional industries:
- Call: 1300 611 404
- Email: [email protected]
- Book a career call
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