Find out everything you need to know about becoming a Police Officer.

Job Title – Police Officer

Description

A Police Officer maintains law and order, prevents crime, investigates offences and preserves internal security. 

Typical Job Activities

Interviews suspected criminals
Takes statements
Writes crime reports
Deals with paperwork
Gathers prosecution evidence
Gives evidence in court
Fosters good relationships with the public
Patrols areas by foot and car
Makes and processing arrests
Searches suspects
Responds to emergencies
Offers advice and reassurance to the public
Controls traffic/crowds
Keeps the peace/mediating in tense situations

Does this sound like a career for you? Browse jobs in the government and parastatals industry here.

Related Occupations

Bodyguard
Ambulance and Emergency care worker
Detective
Lifeguard Police officer
Security officer
Traffic officer
Watchman

Educational Requirements

Senior Certificate with matric exemption

Compulsory subjects: None
Recommended subjects: None

Entry to Work Place

College:
The police student receives training at the following South African police training colleges: Pretoria, Hammanskraal, Bishop Lavis, Wentworth
The training lasts 6 months. The training period for graduates is approximately 3 months

Additional Requirements

The prospective police officer must
- undergo a strict selection procedure
- be a South African citizen
- be between 18 - 25 years of age (men)
- be between 18 - 35 years of age (women)
- have no criminal record
- be in possession of a 08-driver’s licence
- speak English and at least one more language
- take the oath of office

What natural skills and/or aptitudes do I need for this occupation?

Be open-mindedness
Have resilience
Have assertiveness
Have maturity
Be able to handle responsibility
Be able to remain calm in challenging or dangerous situations
Have good interpersonal skills
Have communication skills
Have teamworking skills
Have problem solving skills
Have negotiating skills

Udemy has over 24 000 interesting and inexpensive courses available to start right now.

Employment Opportunities 

High

Market Competitiveness

High

Income Potential

Moderate

Self-Employment Opportunities

Low

International Employment Opportunities

Moderate

Possible Employers

South Africa Police Services

Browse companies hiring now.

Relevant Contact Details

South African Police Service Academy Paarl
https://www.saps.gov.za/paarl/index.php

Career Progress and Path

Experience in specific field
Work performance

Possible Career Paths

Specialist career in the specific field
Management positions in the specific field

Employment Stability

Very stable

Reasons to consider this career

I can be of service to people
I can work with people
I can apply my special skills
I can communicate and interact with people
I am very interested in the specific subject or field