What is a Border Patrol Agent?
Border patrol agents are the gatekeepers of the country. Since the
events of 9/11, their jobs have become even more important. They are
charged with the following:
1. Preventing illegal aliens from entering the country
2. Preventing illegal drug smuggling
3. Preventing human trafficking
4. Preventing terrorists and weapons of terror from entering the country
5. And More
As you can see, this is not the job for the faint at heart. The responsibility is so serious that the border patrol agency has been put under the Department of Homeland Security. This is the department that was created after the 9/11 events.
Border patrol agents cover about 11,000 miles of land and see
borders of the United States. For this, they must work closely with
customs agents.
How to Become a Border Patrol Agent:
To become a border patrol agent, you must pass entry exams. You will
need good reasoning and language skills to pass these exams. The agency
will also require that you have the ability to work under pressure. Make
no mistake about it, this is a high pressure job. New people entering
the profession are required to be under 40 years old.
If you really want to improve your chance of being a border
patrol agent, you will need a degree in Homeland Security or Criminal
Justice. These degrees will equip you with what you need to be
successful in the profession, not to mention help your chances of
advancement. You can expect to take classes in the following:
a. Criminal Justice
b. Civil Justice
c. Emergency Planning
d. Security Measures
e. Principles, Planning and Procedures of Safety
f. Tactical Communications
g. Domestic and International Terrorism
h. Etc.
The border patrol agents job will be perfect for someone that loves the
outdoors. This is not by any means an office job. Those that attain
supervisory positions may be able to sit in the office. This will take a
college degree and/or years of experience.
Border Patrol Agent Salary:
These agents that patrol the border can expect to be paid handsomely for
their trouble. It is not uncommon to see them make about $35,000.00 per
year to start. And they can expect a progressive raise in salary as
they attain more experience.
Like we said above, those that get college degrees stand a better chance of getting promoted. You can even become an agent while you work on your degree part time. This way you can be earning money while getting the college degree that will be you move up in your field.
Border Patrol Agent School:
We recommend the schools below for degrees in homeland security and
criminal justice. You can request for their free information by clicking
the following link.
Request free Kaplan University Online information here
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