How to Become a Cop in Kansas
According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the total crime rate in the state was 5.6% below the 10-year average in 2016. However, violent crimes rose 5.9% above the 10-year average and murders were an alarming 24.4% above the 10-year average. With such numbers, there is no denying the need for police officers in the state. The police officers in Kansas are already working as hard as they can to protect the citizens – if you want to join forces with them to bring this crime rate under control, the following information regarding requirements, career data and eligibility criteria would be of great use to you.
Featured Programs and Schools
Career Requirements
| Educational Requirements | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Experience/Training | Training from Police Academy, Moderate on-the-job training |
| Key Skills | Excellent Communication, Adaptability, Conflict Resolution, Integrity, Problem-Solving Skills, Sound Judgement, Courage, State Laws Knowledge, Assertiveness, Remaining Calm in Challenging Situations. |
| Annual Mean Salary – Kansas, KS (2021) | $52,010 |
| Job Outlook – Kansas, KS (2018-2028) | 2% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021) and O*Net Online
Steps for Becoming a Police Officer in Kansas
If you are looking for information on how to become a police officer in Kansas, the following steps will be an ideal guide. However, keep in mind that this is a general guide and you will have to check with individual jurisdictions or departments for detailed application process and information.
- Make sure you meet the Eligibility Criteria
- Submit the application
- Pass the Written Exam
- Pass the Physical Exam
- Clear the Polygraph test
- Pass the interviews phase
- Pass the psychological exam
- Pass the medical exam
- Clear a thorough background investigation
- Attend the police training academy
Requirements to Become a Police Officer in Kansas
Before you initiate the process for becoming a police officer in Kansas, you are advised to ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:
- All candidates must be citizens of the US
- All candidates must possess a valid driver’s license for the state of Kansas
- All applicants ought to be at least 21 years of age
- All candidates should be citizens of the US
- Candidates must not have any previous incidences of domestic violence
- Candidates should not have a history of felony convictions
- Candidates should have at least a high school diploma or a GED
- Candidates should have a correctable vision of at least 20/30
- Candidates ought to be residents of Kansas
How long does it take to become a Police Officer in Kansas?
To become a police officer in Kansas, you are looking at an approximate time investment of 1.5-2 years after you have completed your high school education. The application process takes a few weeks, and is followed by training at a police academy, which can last up to 6 months or more. You might also have to complete a probationary period before you can begin working as a permanent employee.
How much does a Police Officer make in Kansas?
Employment Projections
O*Net Online forecasts a 2% increase in employment opportunities for Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers in Kansas, KS between 2018 and 2028. The corresponding national average for this occupation is 7%. $52,010 was the mean annual salary of Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers in Kansas, KS as per BLS in 2021. Below are the top 5 highest paying states for this occupation in the US in 2021.
| State | Annual Mean Wage |
| California | $102,920 |
| Washington | $92,390 |
| New Jersey | $91,690 |
| Alaska | $87,510 |
| Illinois | $82,800 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)
Similarly, states with the highest employment level in police and sheriff’s patrol officers are also as follows:
| State | Employment |
| California | 70,050 |
| Texas | 60,440 |
| New York | 49,910 |
| Florida | 45,360 |
| Illinois | 30,640 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2021)