How to Become an FBI Agent
The FBI has more than 30,000 employees spread throughout the country with 13,500 special agents and 20,000 support professionals.
Overview & Salaries
| FBI Linguists | $51,500 |
| FBI Special Agent | $51,043 |
| Hostage Rescue Team | $55,760 |
| Intelligence Analysis | $70,000 |
| Information Technology | $71,300 |
| FBI Police | $58,000 |
| Investigative Support & Surveillance | $42,500 (starting salary) |
| Professional Staff | $34,000 |
Places to Work
The FBI operates in every state in the country and demand for agents are heaviest where crime and trafficking peak. The agency’s employees work on local, state and federal levels.
Why Federal Bureau of Investigation
A career with perhaps the most famous law enforcement agency in the world is a pretty tempting option for those hoping to make a career in law enforcement. However, competition for positions is tight. The FBI has more than 30,000 employees spread throughout the country with 13,500 special agents and 20,000 support professionals including intelligence analysts, language and information technology specialists, among many other professionals.
Recommended Federal Bureau of Investigation Courses
- Criminalistics
- Fingerprints Classification & Latents
- Criminal Law
- Cyber Crime/Criminal & Civil
- Introduction to Networking/Security
- Intro to Forensic Science with Lab
- Crime Scene Photography
- Biological Evidence
- Fire Investigation
- Crime Scene Dynamics
- Technology Crimes
- Current Issues in Criminal Justice
Degrees for Federal Bureau of Investigation Careers
Once hired by the FBI, you’ll need to maintain your eligibility for a Top Secret security clearance and undergo a background check every five years. This includes submitting to random drug tests throughout your career. In addition, candidates must be at least 23-years old, but younger than 37 upon your appointment as a Special Agent.
Bachelor’s Degree
A four-year bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for FBI candidates. In addition, candidates will also need at least three years of professional work experience and a valid driver’s license.
Master’s Degree
A master’s degree in criminal justice allow for many concentrations from forensic psychology, to international crime and justice to protection management. This advanced two-year degree is ideal for mid-career professionals seeking to expand their skills while advancing their careers.