HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A common path is to finish secondary school, then begin as a police constable or in another police role and build experience in law enforcement. Some people later move into senior leadership after many years on the job, showing strong judgment, fairness, and leadership. Depending on the employer or province, post-secondary study in criminal justice, policing, public administration, or a related field may help. Early experience with community service, teamwork, and investigation work can also be useful. Requirements can vary by police service and role, so local hiring standards should be checked.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the activities of a police force or division of a police force
- Develop and implement police force policies and procedures
- Oversee police investigations and ensure that procedures are conducted in accordance with laws and regulations
- Assess performance of subordinates and authorize promotions, transfers and disciplinary actions.