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Police officer

A police officer is responsible for safety on streets, in neighborhoods and on the roads. Officers help people in trouble, calm down conflicts, investigate thefts and other crimes and keep order at public events. If fairness matters to you, you keep your word and you stay steady when things get tense, this kind of service might be a good fit for you.

Police officer

The police has many different paths: district inspectors, patrol police, investigators, detectives, juvenile affairs officers, forensic experts. Some spend most of their time out on the streets, others work with case files and evidence. The job demands discipline, good physical shape and sometimes irregular hours. In return, you see every day that your work really protects people.

What the job involves

  • Patrols the streets and keeps public order
  • Takes reports from citizens and responds to calls
  • Interviews witnesses and collects evidence
  • Writes up reports and official paperwork
  • Runs prevention talks, including with school students

Skills you need

  • Integrity and responsibility

    Police officers are trusted with authority and weapons, so they must act strictly within the law.

  • Physical fitness

    You need stamina to stay on your feet for hours and to stop an offender if needed.

  • Composure

    In a conflict it is vital to stay calm and make well-judged decisions.

  • Knowledge of the law

    Every action an officer takes must rest on legal rules and respect for human rights.

  • Communication

    Many situations can be solved by talking if you find the right tone with a person.

Who it suits

Personality types

Strong intelligences

  • Bodily-kinesthetic
  • Interpersonal
  • Intrapersonal

UNT subjects to take

Where to study

The main route is an academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, with academies in cities such as Almaty, Karaganda and Kostanay. Besides UNT results, applicants pass a medical check, physical fitness tests and psychological screening. A bachelor's program usually takes four years, and cadets follow a strict daily routine and wear uniform.

There is another route too: joining the police after army service, college or a civilian university and then completing initial professional training. Selection rules and requirements for candidates change from time to time, so it is best to check the current rules with the police department in your region or on the ministry's website.

Outlook

The police works in every city and district of Kazakhstan, so officers are needed across the country. Graduates serve in patrol and local police, investigation and detective units, the migration service, juvenile police, K-9 and forensic departments. With good service there are real chances to move up and receive higher ranks.

Frequently asked questions

Which UNT subjects do I need for a police academy?

Law enforcement programs usually take world history and fundamentals of law as profile subjects. On top of the UNT, you need to pass a medical check, fitness tests and psychological screening.

Do girls get accepted into the police?

Yes, women serve in the police as investigators, juvenile affairs officers, patrol officers, experts and in many other roles. The physical fitness standards for them are set separately.

What can I do at school to prepare?

Play sports, look after your health and prepare well in history and law. Your record matters too: a criminal record or serious offenses can stop you from being accepted into the service.

Is this career right for you?

Take the MBTI and Gardner tests: the report shows which directions fit you personally.

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