LAW, public safety and security

Whether you dream of becoming a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, or emergency dispatcher, you'll be part of a team dedicated to keeping others safe during times of crisis. From responding to emergencies and saving lives, to preventing crime and promoting public health, the work is challenging, rewarding, and essential. So, if you're someone who thrives in high-pressure situations, values teamwork, and wants to make a positive impact, a career in public safety could be your calling!

Questions
  • Are you calm under pressure and able to make quick decisions?
  • Do you value helping others?
  • Do you possess strong values?
Career Pathways

Law and public safety have five career pathways:

  • Law Enforcement: Individuals who fight crime and maintain public safety, such as police officers.
  • Legal Services: Individuals who work with the law, such as judges, lawyers, and assistants at various levels.
  • Emergency and Fire Management: Individuals who respond to emergencies or natural disasters, such as paramedics or firefighters.
  • Correction Services: Individuals who work with law enforcement with a focus on those who have broken the law, such as a correction officer or probation officer.
  • Security and Protection Services: Individuals who protect buildings or people, such as security guards or life guards.
What It Takes
A flexed bicep
Physical Fitness
An award ribbon
Dependability
Two speech bubbles with lines instead of text
Communication Skills
Four hands overlapping
Teamwork & Coordination
A pair of hands holding a heart
Empathy
Education-Career-Income: Law, Public Safety & Security
occupation
required education
Salary Range
Attorney
Doctorate Degree
$61,230 - $116,020
Emergency Management Director
Bachelor's Degree
$73,030 - $126,050
Occupational Health & Safety Specialists
Bachelor's Degree
$51,580 - $88,340
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
Bachelor's Degree
$64,925 - $113,475
Crime Scene/Forensic Science Technician
Bachelor's Degree
$35,110 - $63,630
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Associate Degree
$39,774 - $65,091
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Associate Degree
$47,789 - $86,125
Records Clerk
Associate Degree
$40,040 - $61,340
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)
Associate Degree
$30,700 - $38,610
Firefighters
Certificate
$36,200 - $66,742
Correctional Officer
High School
$38,730 - $55,740
Other Protective Service Workers
High School
$30,510 - $40,620
Dispatcher
High School
$35,290 - $44,050
Security Guard
High School
$27,140 - $34,520
Source: 2024 Florida CareerSource
For more information, visit Florida Department of Education CTE Frameworks