Train as a DEA Agent, Work at Keeping the Streets Free of Drugs
Drugs are a major problem in the US, and so the drug enforcement administration was established to keep the streets clean. A DEA agent is a necessary part of society, working at preventing the importing, exporting, manufacturing and selling of illegal drugs.
It is a dangerous position that requires flexibility to travel on short notice and perseverance, but knowing that you are playing a role in preventing the extensive circulation of narcotics is a very rewarding feeling.
Job Description
The war against drugs is ever-present, and the DEA is the front line in that war. They are the ones responsible for implementing the US federal drug laws and they control international drug investigations. They investigate and arrest anyone involved in terrorist acts, or the manufacturing and selling of illegal narcotics. They attack major drug trafficking organizations to try to bring an end to the distribution of drugs on the streets. Surveillance operations and even sometimes undercover jobs are necessary roles in the DEA.
Career Training
Becoming a DEA agent does require a certain level of education to be considered, as well as being a US citizen between 18 and 36. A 4 year bachelor's degree is necessary to be eligible, and although many majors are accepted, having a criminal justice degree or political science degree are the most recommended areas of study.
Other majors that are worthy of consideration are degrees in foreign languages, accounting, finance or economics, so you have many areas to choose from to find something that suits you best but is still appropriate. Online courses can be found for virtually any of the required majors, so look into schools like Kaplan University or Walden University Online if studying from home is appealing to you. Career Outlook
There is no guarantee that any government positions will see growth compared to other careers in criminal justice, and the existing spots are competitive, so it is best to ensure that you have the necessary qualifications, and even go over and above the requirements by obtaining a masters degree to secure yourself a position.
Having an advanced degree can also benefit you by making you eligible to be hired at a GS-9 level which will earn you about $40,000-50,000 a year versus a GS-7 level which makes around $35,000-45,000 a year. Also, there is a better chance to move up to a level GS-12 in only a few years which will again raise your salary.
So, if you're planning on becoming a DEA agent, do your research and see what availability there is and how to secure a spot in this exciting field.
