College paths for FBI agents

Hello, I'm super interested in a career with the FBI. Just curious, where do most FBI agents go to college? Are there certain degrees that are more common among agents?

There isn't a specific pathway for becoming an FBI agent, but several colleges and degrees are commonly associated with a career in the FBI. These typically fall into fields such as criminal justice, cyber security, law enforcement, international studies, and more.

Fordham University and George Washington University, known for their strong programs in international studies and political science, are popular choices. These schools are located in major cities—New York City and Washington D.C. respectively—where many federal government operations are based. However, do note that the FBI recruits from a wide array of institutions and studying at these schools isn't a prerequisite for a career in the FBI.

As for degrees, many FBI special agents hold degrees in Criminal Justice or similar fields. However, the FBI's hiring needs are diverse and they often hire people with unique skills, such as proficiency in certain languages, expertise in cybersecurity, or a background in accounting. Therefore, degrees in areas like Cybersecurity, Forensic Science, Accounting, Foreign Language and many more can also be beneficial.

Essentially, it's more about the skills you can bring to the table and less about the specific school or degree. However, plan on at least a bachelor’s degree, and consider that many FBI roles require further education, such as a Juris Doctor (law degree). A master's degree or even a doctorate could be advantageous, depending on your career goals within the bureau.

It's also worth remembering that the FBI looks for evidence of leadership and teamwork skills. Thus, involvement in extracurricular activities while in college, especially those where leadership and ethics are emphasized, can boost a potential candidate's profile.

Finally, the FBI also has stringent entry requirements beyond education—including age, citizenship, and physical fitness requirements, among others. It's wise to familiarize yourself with these as early as possible to enable you to plan effectively.