- Page Content
- Should I Become a Detective in Georgia?
- Skills Required to Become a Private Detective
- Job Description of a Private Detective
- Best Schools in Georgia for Detectives
- Career Outlook for a Detective in Georgia
- Steps to Become a Detective in Georgia
- How Long Does It Take to Become a Detective in Georgia?
- What Are the Requirements to Become a Detective in Georgia?
- How Much Does a Detective Earn in Georgia?
Are you passionate about solving mysteries and catching criminals? Do you have a keen eye for detail and a strong sense of justice? If so, a career as a private detective in Georgia may be the perfect fit for you.
Featured Programs and Schools
Private detectives play a vital role in helping individuals and organizations with a wide range of investigations, from corporate fraud to missing persons cases. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to become a licensed private detective in Georgia, including the requirements, training, and licensing process.
Should I Become a Detective in Georgia?
- Education
- Area of Study/Major Requirement
- Licenses/Certifications
- Experience/Training
- Key Skills
- Annual Mean Salary (2021) – National
- Job Outlook (2021-2031) – National
- Annual Mean Salary (2021) -Georgia
- Job Outlook (2020-2030) – Georgia
- High School Diploma / General Educational Development (GED) Certificate.
*Higher qualifications are not compulsory but can help you get ahead in your career. - Criminal Justice, Crime Scene Analysis, Forensic Science, Criminal Law, Judicial Function, Human Relations, etc.
- N/A
- Required
- Management and Administration, Public Safety and Security, Monitoring and Coordination, Resource Management, Communication.
- $59,400 (Detectives and Criminal Investigators)
- 6% (Detectives and Criminal Investigators)
- $55,380 (Detectives and Criminal Investigators)
- 18%
Like most careers in law enforcement, the job of a detective carries considerable risk. Confrontations with criminals of all sorts are quite frequent. As a result, there is often a danger of injury and even death. Work hours are long too. However, overtime pay is usually provided.
Skills Required to Become a Private Detective
Private detectives, also known as private investigators, conduct investigations and gather information for individuals, businesses, and law firms. The skills required to become a private detective include:
- Analytical skills: Private detectives need to be able to analyze information and data to solve cases and draw conclusions.
- Communication skills: They must be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement personnel.
- Attention to detail: Private detectives must pay close attention to details to uncover important information.
- Problem-solving skills: They need to be able to think creatively and find solutions to complex problems.
- Discretion: Private detectives must be able to maintain confidentiality and work discreetly.
- Knowledge of laws: They need to have a solid understanding of federal, state, and local laws related to investigations.
- Technical skills: Private detectives need to be proficient in using various types of technology and software for surveillance and data analysis.
Job Description of a Private Detective
Private detectives, also known as private investigators, conduct investigations and gather information for individuals, businesses, and law firms. The skills required to become a private detective include:
- Analytical skills: Private detectives need to be able to analyze information and data to solve cases and draw conclusions.
- Communication skills: They must be able to communicate effectively with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement personnel.
- Attention to detail: Private detectives must pay close attention to details to uncover important information.
- Problem-solving skills: They need to be able to think creatively and find solutions to complex problems.
- Discretion: Private detectives must be able to maintain confidentiality and work discreetly.
- Knowledge of laws: They need to have a solid understanding of federal, state, and local laws related to investigations.
- Technical skills: Private detectives need to be proficient in using various types of technology and software for surveillance and data analysis.
Best Schools in Georgia for Detectives
The table below presents the names of the best schools in Georgia for detectives, along with the degrees offered, courses taught, credit hours, and duration:
| School Name | Degrees Offered
| Courses Taught | Credit Hours | Duration |
| Georgia State University | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees | Criminal Investigation, Criminalistics, Forensic Psychology | 120-126 credits (Bachelor’s), 30 credits (Master’s) | 4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| University of North Georgia | Bachelor’s Degree | Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Cybersecurity | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Mercer University | Bachelor’s Degree | Criminal Justice, Criminology, Forensic Science | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Kennesaw State University | Bachelor’s Degree | Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Digital Forensics | 120 credits | 4 years |
These degrees are important for aspiring private detectives because they provide students with a strong foundation in criminal justice, investigation, and forensic science. The courses taught in these programs cover topics such as crime scene investigation, evidence collection and analysis, criminal law, and forensic psychology. Additionally, the technical skills and knowledge of laws required for the job of a private detective are also taught in these programs. Obtaining a degree in this field can increase job prospects and enhance the skills required for success in this career.
Career Outlook
According to O*Net OnLine data, the career outlook for private detectives and investigators in Georgia is promising. The projected growth for this profession in Georgia between 2020 and 2030 is 18%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 6%. This growth is due to the increasing need for private detectives in various areas, including corporate security, insurance, and legal services.
Career growth opportunities for private detectives include advancement to supervisory positions or starting their own investigative agencies. Private detectives can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Private investigative agencies
- Insurance companies
- Legal firms
- Government agencies
- Corporations
Steps to Become a Detective in Georgia
Employment opportunities for Detectives and Criminal Investigators are projected to decline by -1% nationally from 2021 to 2031 (as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics). In Georgia, however, things are looking better. Detectives and Criminal Investigators are expected to enjoy 7% growth in job opportunities between 2020 and 2030 according to O*Net OnLine.
Education
To be eligible for employment with a Georgia police unit, you should have at least a High School Diploma or GED (General Educational Development) Certificate. Higher credentials may be required by some police departments in the state.
As an aspiring detective, attaining specialized post-secondary education will give you the edge over your peers. Therefore, if possible, you are advised to go for an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Judicial Function and Criminology, etc.
Initial Selection Procedure
When you apply for employment with any police department in Georgia, they conduct various tests to gauge your suitability. These usually include a written assessment, medical and physical examination, background checks, polygraph test and drug evaluation, etc.
Police Academy Training
After clearing the initial screening phase, you will undergo police academy training for about 6 months. Upon completion, you will be able to join the police force as a probationary officer.
Gain the Required Police Officer Experience
To be promoted to the rank of detective, you need to work as a police officer for a specified number of years. The requirement tends to vary for different police departments in the Empire State of the South.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Detective in Georgia?
It normally takes about 6 or so years to become a detective in Georgia. Of these, the first 1.5 to 2 years will be taken by the initial selection and training phase. The rest of the time will be spent working as a police officer.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Detective in Georgia?
Aspiring detectives in Georgia must fulfill the requirements listed below.
- Should be at least 20. Different police forces in the state may have different age requirements.
- Must be a lawful American citizen.
- Should possess at least a High School Diploma or a GED Certificate. Some police departments may demand higher educational credentials.
- Must not have any type of criminal record.
- Should have a legal Georgia driving license.
- Candidates with a background of military service must not have a dishonorable discharge against their name.
- Acquire the needed police officer experience.
How Much Can I Make After Becoming a Detective in Georgia?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for private detectives and investigators in Georgia was $55,380 in 2021. However, this can vary based on experience, location, and type of employer. Private detectives can also earn extra income through:
- Private contracting
- Providing expert testimony in court
- Security consulting
- Background checks and other services
Overall, becoming a private detective in Georgia can lead to a promising career with opportunities for career advancement and a good salary.