Law Enforcement Careers
Exploring Careers in Law Enforcement
Careers in law enforcement offer a variety of paths, from traditional roles like police officers and detectives to specialized areas like forensic science and cybersecurity. Many opportunities exist within local, state, and federal agencies, as well as within private security and investigations.
Public administration is a critical component of law enforcement careers as it focuses on effectively managing programs, delivering services to constituents, and optimizing the allocation of resources.
Education and Training for Law Enforcement Careers
Rutgers SPAA offers Degree and Certificate Programs that provide current and future law enforcement professionals with competencies in important elements of public administration and management, such as leadership, budgeting, grants, resource development, and more taught by experts in the field.
- The undergraduate Major in Public Administration, offered in person or online, prepares students for management and leadership roles across a wide range of careers spanning all levels of law enforcement.
- Courses such as Leadership in Public Service help students develop leadership skills that include communication, conflict resolution, change management, adaptability, problem solving, and team building in the context of public and nonprofit organizations.
- The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, offered in person or online, provides the cutting-edge knowledge and professional skills needed for successful careers in government, the nonprofit sector, international organizations, and even the corporate world.
- Certificates and Training Programs provide opportunities for working professionals seeking to learn a specific topic or skill, or those looking to enhance their expertise without committing to a full academic degree program.
Connect with Rutgers SPAA Alumni in Law Enforcement
Learn how SPAA alumni are serving in law enforcement and what you can do with a degree from Rutgers SPAA.

Jamie Hendrix (MPA'14)
Lieutenant, Institutional Planning and Operations, University Public Safety, Rutgers University–Newark