How well educated are police officers in California?

What is it about?

This study examines higher education trends in police agencies throughout California, the most populated state in the United States. In addition to providing information about education policies and incentives, the study identifies the agency-level factors and practices that are associated with a higher prevalence of educated officers.

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Why is it important?

The study reveals that it is possible to get hired without a college degree but it is very difficult to promote past the rank of sergeant without a college degree. On average, 35% of California peace officers have a college-degree but this varies considerably by region and agency practices.