Requirements to Become...
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What are the Requirements to Become a Security Guard?

Get a Great Job As a Security Guard

As concerns over theft, vandalism, and terrorism rise, the demand for professionals trained in crime-deterrence has escalated commensurately. Security guards patrol various types of property for signs of illegal activity, contacting law enforcement and emergency services as the situation dictates and oftentimes interviewing witnesses, preparing case reports, and testifying in court. While security officers' specific duties vary by location of employment (including everything from retail stores to nuclear power plants) and though they may be assigned to a static location or a mobile patrol route, all security guards devote their professional lives to the same objectives: protecting their employer's investments and ensuring people's safety.

Requirements to Become a Security Guard

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employers generally don't require specific educational attainments, but often prefer high school graduates or those who hold an equivalent certification. Other requirements to become a security guard typically include:
  • Licensure. Most states require security guards to obtain a license, the attainment of which necessitates a candidate over the age of eighteen who has passed a background check and completed courses in property rights, emergency procedure, and detention of suspected criminals.
  • Ongoing training. New trends make ongoing training in protection, public relations, report writing, crisis deterrence, and first aid mandatory in order to retain a license.
  • Successful completion of written or performance examination. The American Society of Industrial Security International proposes voluntary guidelines for regulating bodies that include tests designed to evaluate a security guard's proficiency in topics such as crime prevention, the use of force, and interpersonal relations.





The following colleges offer programs that can help you become qualified for a Security Guard career:
  University of Phoenix

With convenient class locations as well as online learning, University of Phoenix makes quality higher education highly accessible. Whether you’re seeking an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, we can help you reach your goal while you work—and much sooner than you might expect.

  Keiser University eCampus Online

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni. We research trends for growing fields and tailor our curriculum to prepare students for entry and advancement to rewarding careers.

  University of Phoenix

Founded in 1976, University of Phoenix is dedicated to meeting the needs of working students. Now the largest private university in North America, we have more than 190 campuses and learning centers as well as a flexible online learning format available in most countries around the world. Regardless of where or how you attend class, you'll receive a real-world education with real value.

  Virginia College

Ready to earn a well-respected degree? Need a flexible schedule? Virginia College can help. Become an office superstar with our business program. Or make a difference in your community by earning a paralegal or Criminal Justice degree. Can't get enough of your computer? Try our programs in Information Systems or Cybersecurity. No matter what program you choose, you'll get the top-quality education you deserve with an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree from Virginia College.

  Kaplan University

Kaplan University's accredited online degree programs allow you to earn the degree you need and advance your career without missing a day of work.

  American InterContinental University Online

At American InterContinental University, our educational approach is designed around the realities and challenges of today's busy lifestyles, and for over forty years, we have been helping students gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to pursue the next level of their professional development.



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