Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
individual
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Anna Brumfield, Freshman
Lead Presenter's Name
Anna Brumfield
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Ibrahim Kocaman
Abstract
How does earning a 4-year degree affect promotion rates among municipal police officers? The importance of a 4-year degree for law enforcement officers has been a topic of interest in a number of studies throughout the recent decades; however, significantly less research has been conducted to understand the relationship between earning a degree and the possibility of career advancement in municipal police officers. In the past, the need for higher education in this field was considered negligible; but studies have been conducted that point to the possible value of college experience and more specifically a 4-year degree. This value has been seen in the improved critical thinking and decision-making skills of officers that have a background in college (Costantino, 2014). Though it is an agency decision whether or not to mandate any specific amount of post-secondary education, having a degree has shown in some cases to improve the possibility of promotion in the career of a law enforcement officer (Gardiner, 2021). This study will introduce evidence to better understand the implications of possessing a 4-year degree on the promotional opportunities among municipal police officers. The findings will enhance the knowledge of this subject and create a better understanding of future career aspirations and opportunities for law enforcement officers.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Included in
Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons, Performance Management Commons, Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Commons
How does earning a 4-year degree affect promotion rates among municipal police officers?
How does earning a 4-year degree affect promotion rates among municipal police officers? The importance of a 4-year degree for law enforcement officers has been a topic of interest in a number of studies throughout the recent decades; however, significantly less research has been conducted to understand the relationship between earning a degree and the possibility of career advancement in municipal police officers. In the past, the need for higher education in this field was considered negligible; but studies have been conducted that point to the possible value of college experience and more specifically a 4-year degree. This value has been seen in the improved critical thinking and decision-making skills of officers that have a background in college (Costantino, 2014). Though it is an agency decision whether or not to mandate any specific amount of post-secondary education, having a degree has shown in some cases to improve the possibility of promotion in the career of a law enforcement officer (Gardiner, 2021). This study will introduce evidence to better understand the implications of possessing a 4-year degree on the promotional opportunities among municipal police officers. The findings will enhance the knowledge of this subject and create a better understanding of future career aspirations and opportunities for law enforcement officers.