Special weapons and tactics. It's who the police call when they need advanced operational support. SWAT career requirements are stringent. But if you pass them, you'll be one of the key professionals that take down criminals, secure public areas, and save lives. Here's how you can be a part of it.
A Special Kind of Candidate
SWAT officers are identified for their intelligence, physical fitness, motivation, stability, and team spirit. Potential candidates must spend several years as a uniformed officer with a local police department before being considered for a SWAT appointment. Because SWAT career requirements feature a firm time and effort commitment, officers go through an intense interview process designed to gauge an applicants potential for confirmation. The stages of the consideration process include:- Written exam. Covering policies and procedures.
- Fitness test. With expected endurance benchmarks.
- Firearms test. Using a variety of weaponry.
- Review board. To measure intellectual aptitude.
- Psychological evaluation. To determine presence of mind.
Preparing to Apply
One of the more popular degree programs for potential SWAT team members is the criminal justice major. While not a requirement, employers look favorable on applicants who have a background in law enforcement in any field. Some departments will even pay a part or all of the tuition for their officers to complete a degree while they work. SWAT career requirements necessitate a diverse, successful track record in basic police work. Recommendations from your current and former employers will also serve to make you competitive.
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