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Public Safety

Police Officer / Law Enforcement

Police officers protect life and property, respond to emergencies, enforce laws, and build community relationships. Florida's growing population — now 3rd largest in the nation — combined with high tourist volume sustains persistent officer demand across 67 counties and 400+ municipal departments. Officers who pursue degrees receive salary incentives under the Criminal Justice Incentive Program.

FL Median Salary
$68,240
Entry Salary
$47,160
Experienced
$111,190
FL Growth
N/A

Requirements & Training

  • Credential: FL Law Enforcement Officer Certification; ~770-hour CJSTC-approved Basic Recruit Training + State Officer Certification Exam
  • Florida license required: Yes (FL Criminal Justice Standards & Training Commission (CJSTC) / FL Dept. of Law Enforcement (FDLE))

Career Path

  1. Recruit
  2. Patrol Officer
  3. Senior Officer
  4. Detective/Sergeant
  5. Lieutenant
  6. Captain
  7. Chief of Police

Top Florida Employers

Miami-Dade PDBroward Sheriff's OfficePalm Beach County SheriffFDLEFlorida Highway PatrolOrlando PDJacksonville Sheriff's OfficeTampa PD

Related Programs

  • Criminal Justice AS/BS
  • Law Enforcement Academy Certificate
  • Public Safety AS
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Salary data sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics Florida Occupational Employment Statistics. School data from Florida Department of Education CIE database.

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