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From Police Officer to Part-Time Professor: Making the Leap Into the College Classroom

NCJ Number
218070
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 76 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2007 Pages: 14-19
Author(s)
Tracey G. Gove MPA
Date Published
April 2007
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article provides the rationale for and guidance in how to pursue a part-time teaching position for police officers in local colleges.
Abstract
There are many responsibilities in the course of a law enforcement career that prepare officers to be teachers/instructors. These include conducting educational sessions for neighborhood groups, youth organizations, and civic associations, as well as teaching classes as part of the responsibilities of a school resource officer or a member of the staff of a citizen police academy. Obtaining a part-time position as an adjunct faculty member at a local college offers not only prestige but a variety of benefits. Teaching enhances personal development and knowledge and promotes the professionalism of the employing police agency. In addition to extra compensation, it expands an officer’s personal resume for current and future job opportunities. This article provides practical guidance in finding and applying for a teaching position. It focuses on the search, the qualifications commonly required for an adjunct teaching position in a college, the application process, and online opportunities. Advice is then provided on how to prepare for the first class, followed by guidance on improving teaching competency. 47 notes