DEA Special Agents are specifically trained officers dedicated to enforcing the Controlled Substances Act. They work on high profile drug cases, including drug trafficking, illegal smuggling and more. This job can be a very dangerous one, and DEA Special Agents are trained to use weapons, make arrests, conduct raids and defend themselves and the public against violent criminals. Other duties include conducting surveillance and managing investigations that can last a very long time and require travel. Surveillance may be conducted by using computer software, Internet programs, telephone monitoring, cameras and other techniques. Skills useful to quality DEA Special Agents include proficiency in at least one foreign language, like Chinese, Russian, French, Spanish, and Arabic, as well as knowledge of maritime and aerial operations, which can be analyzed to predict drug smuggling schedules and methods and apprehend criminals. DEA Special Agents who have a solid understanding of accounting and finance can also help the department evaluate transactions, audits and other financial actions which can be traced back to criminal behavior. DEA Special Agents work in extremely stressful, intense situations and must be able to think clearly and make good judgments even in these dangerous conditions. Agents must also work irregular hours and overtime sometimes to complete a case, give their testimony or make a raid at a time that is most favorable to the investigation.

DEA Special Agents can expect to earn between $36,870 and $75,025. They may have to relocate according to the needs of the federal agency. Benefits include eligibility to enroll in the Federal Employee Health Benefits program, the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance program and Federal Employees Retirement System. Agents also receive paid training, sick leave and vacation days.

One of the chief ways that DEA Special Agent applicants are evaluated is by testing their knowledge of law enforcement. A degree in criminal justice, especially a graduate level degree, can be very helpful in passing this part of the evaluation. Law enforcement programs will cover topics in criminal behavior, the legal system, making arrests, terrorism, border patrol and homeland security, the corrections system, surveillance and much more.

Top 10 Criminal Justice Colleges

Search our rankings of the 10 top criminal justice colleges in the US below and request free information packets directly from the top criminal justice degree programs for your needs.

 
1.
University of Phoenix - Master's Degree. University of Phoenix provides highly rated resources that fosters independent learning and enables the student for success. University of Phoenix graduates have shown a history of success by having long careers in the field of Criminal Justice.
 
2.
Everest University Online - Master's Degree. With a career-oriented focus, a student graduating with a M.S. in Criminal Justice from Everest University Online will have the skills necessary to pursue numerous careers upon graduation.
 
3.
Walden University - Master's Degree. At Walden University, the Master's Degree in Criminal Justice degree plan can be completed completely online and at the convenience of the student. Walden University is the premiere online college for students interested in pursuing a degree in the legal and justice field.
 
4.
Colorado Technical University - Master's Degree. The university's Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Criminal Justice is designed to prepare individuals for roles in the emerging administrative and leadership sectors in the criminal justice system. Students are offered flexible courses online, allowing them to pursue this prestigious degree while maintaining other priorities in their lives as well.
 
5.
Kaplan University - Master's Degree. The wide variety of courses and flexible time schedules make Kaplan University a top rated Masters in Criminal Justice school with the following options: Master’s of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Law, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Global Issues in Criminal Justice.
 
6.
Capella University - Master's Degree. Capella University Online’s top ranked job placement statistics make it a top choice by any student who wants a future in criminal justice. A Masters of Science in Public Safety - Criminal Justice, is offered.
 
7.
Saint Joesph's University - Master's Degree. Saint Joesph's University Master's in Criminal Justice program is at the forefront of education in providing a dynamic curriculum to every student. Saint Joesph's makes it easy to obtain a Criminal Justice degree online affordably and from the comfort of home.
 
8.
Virginia College - Master's Degree - At Virginia College, students are equipped with proper skills and training before graduation in order to succeed in their career of choice. Their Master's in Criminal Justice degree will prepare students for mid to upper-level management positions in the legal field.
 
9.
University of Cincinnati - Master's Degree - This highly regarded criminal justice department prepares the student with a well respected faculty, a quick degree plan, and the choice to move on to get a Doctorate. Options include M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice (1 Year Program).
 
10.
Bowling Green State University - Master's Degree. Bowling Green State University’s Criminal Justice school provides students with excellent academic training and experience. The department offers both a Masters of Science (MS) degree in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelors of Science (BS) degree in Criminal Justice.
 
11.
South University - Master's Degree. The South University Masters in Criminal Justice department allows you the option of specializing in Homeland Security. The school offers two masters options: Masters of Science( M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security.
 

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