How to Become a United States Border Patrol Agent

1) Your first step is to earn a Bachelor's or Master's Degree (required) to be hired at the GS-5 pay level. The most common degree for Border Patrol Agents is a Criminal Justice Degree.
2) Review the US Border Patrol Requirements below and make sure you qualify (the US Border Patrol is very strict with their requirements, be sure you don't waste your time or theirs)
3) View open positions and Apply online at USAJOBS.opm.gov

US Border Patrol Job Information

The United States Border Patrol is a federal agency that works closely with the US Customs and Border Protection agency. The US Border Patrol falls under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security. The primary duties for a Border Patrol Agent are to prevent the undocumented entrance of illegal aliens into the United States and apprehend those that have entered or are trying to enter the United States illegally. Also, with the increased presence of drug smuggling across US borders, the US Border Patrol has become the first line agency for detecting and preventing the illegal smuggling of drugs across any US Land border. With the arrival of terrorism on our country’s soil the newest and the most critical duty has presented itself, detecting and preventing terrorists and weapons of terror from entering the United States. There is a need for US Border Patrol Agents now and continued job growth in this field is expected.

Request free info from University of Phoenix to learn how a degree in criminal justice or related degree can help you succeed as an Border Patrol Agent.

US Border Patrol Job Requirements

Two of the most common degrees for a US Border Patrol Agent to possess are a Criminal Justice Degree and Homeland Security Degree. The United States Border Patrol job requirements are stringent and one of the critical factors considered is education. If one does not have substantial relevant work experience a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree is required to apply and become a GS-5. The best combination is a bachelor’s or master’s degree coupled with relevant work experience. Among other criteria the US Border Patrol requires applicants to be a US Citizen, have a driver's license, be under the age of 40 years, have no "class A" misdemeanor or felony, no "b class" misdemeanor in last 10 years and to pass an intense background investigation and physical testing. The schools affiliated with our site provide the educational criteria that a job with the US Border Patrol demands. Our schools provide fully accredited degree programs in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security. Many of the schools offer online and accelerated degree options so that working individuals can maintain their employment while completing the educational requirements for a US Border Patrol job.

Border Patrol Agent Job and Salary Expectations

Once selected for the US Border Patrol one can anticipate a salary of $34,966 to $39,797 based on their experience and education. (source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection website) Accelerated promotional opportunities are available.

The Border Patrol is not an easy or safe career. Many Agents have been killed or wounded. It takes a dedicated and disciplined individual with the passion to protect the United States and its people from the threats of terror our country faces and will continue to face. Are you up to the challenge? Request free information from the schools below and decide for yourself.

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