If you're interested in a career in law enforcement, becoming a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) special agent might be a dream job for you.
FBI agents are responsible for investigating a wide range of federal crimes. These investigations may include terrorism, organized crime, cybercrime, and white-collar crime, among many others.
How to Become a Criminal Investigator for the FBI
Becoming an FBI agent is a highly competitive process and the application process can be challenging, according to the FBI. This agency has rigorous standards for FBI employees, especially when it comes to protecting national security.
Before applying, FBI candidates must meet all the basic requirements for employment, such as:
- Being a United States citizen
- Being between 23 and 36 years of age
- Holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
- Having at least two years of full-time work experience
- Passing a physical fitness test (PFT) and submitting medical documentation to prove your physical fitness
- Having no felonies
- Being up to date on your financial obligations (child support payments, taxes, and student loan repayments)
- Possessing a valid driver's license
- Being registered with the Selective Service (males only)
An FBI special agent position involves a four-step application process:
- Applying for the position
- Undergoing the Special Agent Selection System (SASS) process, which involves multiple phases
- Getting the conditional appointment offer
- Completing the Basic Field Training Course (BFTC)
Also, aspiring special agents must pass a background investigation in order to obtain a top secret Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (SCI) clearance.
Other Specialized Skills Typically Needed to Become an FBI Agent
Once candidates complete the intensive training and the rest of the application process, they are normally assigned to a Federal Bureau of Investigation field office to begin working as a special agent. From there, they have the opportunity to work on developing additional skills that are commonly needed need to investigate complicated crimes. In addition to meeting the FBI's basic qualifications, there are several other skills special agent applicants must possess.
Strong Analytical Skills
In a special agent position, an FBI agent is responsible for investigating complex crimes. This duty involves the ability to analyze large amounts of information to identify patterns and trends.
In addition to analyzing data and identifying patterns, FBI agents with strong analytical skills can also draw inferences and conclusions from their findings, helping to solve crimes and prevent future criminal activity. The ability to think critically and analytically is essential for special agents in carrying out their duties to the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is critical for special agents as they work to gather and analyze evidence, build cases, and identify potential suspects.
Investigating a crime often involves sifting through large volumes of data, documents, and physical evidence. It may also include identifying small details that may be overlooked by other people.
FBI agents with strong attention to detail are able to connect the dots between seemingly unrelated pieces of information, helping to solve crimes and bring perpetrators to justice. The ability to pay close attention to even the smallest detail or piece of evidence is an essential skill for FBI special agents. For instance, a set of tiny fibers proved to be vital evidence in solving a Virginia serial killer case, according to ABC News.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for special agents, who must convey complex information in a clear and concise manner. It may also be helpful if aspiring special agents have the ability to speak a foreign language, such as Spanish, Russian, or Arabic.
An FBI agent needs to communicate effectively with a variety of people. For instance, an agent may need to talk with fellow agents, law enforcement partners, and members of the public.
Additionally, an FBI agent may need to obtain information from victims, witnesses, suspects, and attorneys. FBI special agents must be able to adapt their communication style to different situations and audiences.
In addition to verbal communication, FBI agents must be skilled in written communication. For instance, they are often required to write reports or other documents as a part of their investigations.
Adaptability
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is responsible for investigating a wide range of crimes in different locations and environments. The ability to adapt to new situations and environments is essential for FBI agents, since that will impact their ability to carry out their duties.
For instance, agents may need work in different jurisdictions, collaborate with different law enforcement partners, and use a variety of investigative techniques. In a different environment, agents will use their skills and knowledge to analyze evidence and identify potential suspects.
Integrity
As an FBI special agent, you'll be responsible for upholding the law and maintaining the highest ethical standards.
Integrity is a core value of the FBI. Special agents are expected to uphold the highest standards of honesty, fairness, and impartiality in their work.
FBI special agents must be committed to protecting the civil liberties of all individuals. Ideally, they should have a strong sense of personal integrity and a willingness to do the right thing, even when it may be difficult or unpopular.
How FBI Agents Contribute to Crime Prevention
In addition to investigating crimes, special agents also play a crucial role in preventing crimes before they occur. For instance, they identify potential national security threats and collaborate with other law enforcement agencies to disrupt criminal organizations and networks.
Criminal Investigating for the FBI
To become an FBI criminal investigator, a good understanding of law enforcement techniques is often required, such as processing and documenting crime scenes, collecting evidence, and writing investigative reports. You may also need to be able to interpret evidence, give testimony in court, and reconstruct events to aid others in apprehending criminals.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement Partners
If you become an FBI special agent, you may have the opportunity to work on a wide range of cases and work with law enforcement partners nationally and internationally. You could also have the opportunity to participate in specialized training programs to improve your knowledge.
Investigating High-Profile Crimes
If you're interested in becoming a Federal Bureau of Investigation special agent, it's important to remember that the work can be demanding. You'll be responsible for investigating some of the most complex and high-profile crimes in the country, and your work will have a direct impact on the safety and security of the United States.
Teamwork Is Essential For an FBI Agent
One of the key skills that FBI special agents need to possess is the ability to work as part of a team. FBI investigations often involve multiple agents, supervisory special agents, law enforcement partners, and people from other federal government agencies, so the ability to collaborate with others is essential. For instance, an FBI special agent might work with a behavioral science specialist to better understand a terrorist's motivations.
Working Independently and Taking Initiative
In addition to teamwork, FBI special agents also need to work independently and take the initiative when it becomes necessary. An ability to think critically and creatively is essential.
For instance, FBI investigations often require an FBI agent to look at evidence from multiple angles. Agents should be able to identify patterns and connections that may not be immediately apparent to other people.
Physical Fitness Is Critical
Physical fitness is one of the basic eligibility requirements of an FBI job. An FBI special agent must maintain constant physical fitness to handle the physical requirements of the job, such as running, jumping, and climbing.
FBI agents may also need to use physical force in certain situations, such as restraining suspects. As a result, agent trainees are not only required to maintain a high level of physical fitness, but they must also pass a drug test.
Stress and Working Under Pressure as an FBI Agent
FBI special agents must be able to manage a high amount of stress and work effectively under pressure. FBI investigations can be high-pressure situations, especially if they involve weapons of mass destruction or terrorist threats. Consequently, special agents need to stay calm and focused on their work, even in the midst of chaos.
Where to Start? The FBI Academy and the Basic Field Training Course
If you're selected to become an FBI agent, you'll be required to attend the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, for 20 weeks of basic training. The training at the academy includes both classroom instruction and practical exercises, such as defensive tactics and firearms training. You'll also need to complete a rigorous physical fitness test (PFT), take a writing assessment, participate in a structured interview, and undergo other assessments to ensure you have the right operational skills for becoming an FBI agent.
FBI Specialized Training Programs
Once you've completed your first basic field training course, you'll be assigned to a field office and begin working as a special agent. However, your training won't end there. The FBI offers a variety of specialized training programs to help agents develop the skills they need to investigate complex crimes.
For example, the FBI's New Agent Training program is designed to provide new agents with the skills they need to investigate national security threats and other complex crimes. This program includes specialized training in areas such as cybercrime, counterterrorism, and intelligence gathering.
FBI Conditional Appointment Offer
If you successfully complete all of the required training and meet all of the FBI's standards, you'll receive a conditional appointment offer. This offer is contingent on your successful completion of the FBI's background investigation process.
The background investigation involves a comprehensive process that includes a review of your employment history, financial history, and criminal record. The FBI will also interview your friends, family members, and neighbors to gather information about your character and background.
If you pass the background investigation, you'll receive a final appointment offer and become an agent for the FBI.
American Public University's Online Format Provides Convenience for Students
American Public University's online format also makes our academic programs an excellent choice for anyone who is currently working or has other obligations that make attending classes on a traditional campus difficult. Students can complete coursework on their own schedule, allowing them to balance their education with work, family, and other commitments.
Bachelor's Degrees in Criminal Justice at American Public University
American Public University offers both a bachelor of arts in criminal justice and a bachelor of science in criminal justice. The B.A. degree concerns the U.S. law enforcement, criminology, investigations, law, and community relations, while the B.S. degree focuses on the study of crime, criminal behavior, and digital forensics.
Both degrees are an excellent choice. These programs offer a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system, including courses in law enforcement, courts, and corrections. In addition, they have specialized courses in areas such as criminal investigation, forensics, forensic science, and intelligence analysis.
Bachelor's Degree Courses Include Crime Scene Investigation and Criminal Law
In addition to providing students with a solid foundation in criminal justice theory and practice, the courses in these programs also emphasizes the development of practical skills that are essential for aspiring agents. Classes in areas such as report writing, crime scene investigation, and criminal law provide students with the skills and knowledge often required in the field of law enforcement.
A Solid Foundation
The bachelor's degree programs offer students the chance to learn various skills such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. The program also enables students to learn the basics of criminal justice theory and practice, as well as other practical skills that are often useful in the law enforcement field.
American Public University's Master's Degree in Criminal Justice
The online master's degree in criminal justice at American Public University is a graduate degree ideal for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of criminal law, juvenile and delinquent behavior, security, and terrorism. This academic program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, including the social, political, and legal factors that influence it.
In addition to building on the foundational knowledge, core competencies, and skills gained through a bachelor's in criminal justice, the master's program has advanced coursework in areas such as research methods, criminal justice policy, leadership skills, and management. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as criminal investigation, homeland security, and public administration, depending on their professional goals and interests.
