How To Become A Svu Detective

The first step to becoming a SVU detective is to apply for the position. You can do this by going to the NYPD website and clicking on the “careers” button. From there, you will be able to fill out an application and submit it online. After submitting your application, you will be contacted within two weeks with more information about how to proceed.

Once you have been contacted by the NYPD, they will give you an assessment test to determine whether or not you are qualified for the job. If you pass this test, then they will schedule an interview with one of their detectives who can explain more about the position and help guide your application process.

Once you have been hired as a member of the NYPD’s Special Victims Unit (SVU), then it is up to you whether or not you want to stay there or move on elsewhere in law enforcement after working for awhile under their guidance first

How To Become A Svu Detective

1. Earn a high school diploma

Most police departments require you to have at least a high school diploma to join the force. Some may also accept a GED certificate. It’s important to develop an understanding of basic math principles, and it may be helpful to complete introductory courses in subjects like sociology and psychology.

Related: FAQ: Do You Need a Degree To Be a Cop?

2. Consider attending college

Each department has unique education requirements, and some may prefer candidates who have a college degree. Earning an associate or bachelor’s degree may demonstrate your relevant knowledge and distinguish you from other candidates when applying to become a detective. Some majors to consider include criminal justice, forensic science or law enforcement. Aim to complete coursework in areas like:

• Criminal law and investigations
• Criminology
• Ethics
• Forensic evidence
• Intercultural relations
• Psychology
• Report writing
• Sociology
• Victimology

Related: 10 Types of Criminal Justice Majors and Related Jobs

3. Apply to become a police officer

Working as an SVU detective requires becoming a police officer first. Research positions available in your area, and apply for them. While the requirements vary by department, most departments require you to be at least 21 years old, complete interviews and pass a background check, polygraph test, drug screening, physical fitness test and written exam.

Read more: How To Become a Police Officer

4. Attend the police academy

After you accept a position with a police department, attend the department’s academy. Each academy is different, but most last for several months and include a combination of classroom and practical training. Your police academy training may teach you about topics like:

• Arrest tactics
• Drug and alcohol abuse
• First aid
• Interviewing and reporting
• Local, state and federal laws
• Police vehicle operation
• Protocol for using firearms
• Self-defense

Read more: FAQ: What Do You Do in the Police Academy?

5. Gain experience as an officer

While exact requirements may vary, most departments require you to work as a police officer for a few years before you can become a detective. Some departments may also allow officers who have college degrees to work fewer years before applying for this promotion. During your time as an officer, develop your investigative skills and become more comfortable working on different types of cases. It may also be helpful to ask detectives about their jobs and inquire about having one mentor you.

Related: What’s It Like Being a Cop? Job Responsibilities and Skills

6. Pursue the promotion

Departments may offer general promotions for police officers to become detectives. Requirements to receive these promotions vary by department, but many require you to pass civil service exams that evaluate your skills, training and experience. Some departments may also have interviews. Once you receive your promotion, you may request a transfer to work in the SVU specifically.

Related: 9 Tips To Get Promoted at Work

7. Complete additional training

Many departments offer specific training for working in the SVU to better prepare you for what working in this unit requires. Length of training may vary, and departments may require you to participate in ongoing training to ensure professionalism. Advanced SVU training may help you learn about topics like:

• Child development
• Domestic violence
• Elder abuse
• Medical evaluations
• Sexual assault and crimes
• Techniques for interviewing children
• Victimology