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Homicide Detective Job Description & Career Outlook

The job of a homicide detective is to investigate deaths caused by overt criminal activities and deaths with unknown causes to rule out criminal activity. Homicide detectives are sworn law enforcement officers.

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Responsibilities of a homicide detective include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, conducting background checks on victims and possible suspects, identifying the responsible party, preparing cases for court and assisting in the successful prosecution of offenders. Working conditions vary greatly depending on the nature of the current investigation. A homicide detective must be prepared to work under any conditions.

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Homicide detectives are employed by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies throughout the United States. Depending on the size and geographic location of the agency, the detective’s jurisdiction may cover the entire agency’s geographical jurisdiction or a sector or portion of the area under that agency’s scope. The nature of the work can be very dangerous and stressful, so the detective must also be mentally and physically prepared for the tasks performed.

How to Become a Homicide Detective

The minimum education requirements to become a homicide detective are a high school diploma, law enforcement certification, and experience as a sworn law enforcement officer. Many agencies, however, require that homicide detectives have at least a two- or four-year degree in criminal justice, forensic science or a related field and experience as a sworn law enforcement officer.

CJDS FACT: If you have no experience in law enforcement and want to be a homicide detective, you have to be realistic and work your way up the ranks in a department. CJDS suggests you review careers that can springboard you to be a homicide detective including police officer, deputy or crime scene investigator. The schools listed below will also help get you there.

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