Helpful High School Courses for FBI Agents

Have you ever wanted to join the elite FBI as an agent? Many students aspire to become an agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). FBI agents protect the United States from domestic and international threats. In addition, FBI agents work in tandem with other branches of government to protect citizens and uphold the law. Because there are many areas of specialization at the FBI, high school students can prepare for a career as an agent by maintaining strong grades across the curriculum. In addition, due to the physical and fitness requirements and training, high school students should stay fit by taking gym classes and engaging in different sports.

Applicant Requirements and Special Agent Entry Programs

In order to appropriately prepare, high school students should research the FBI application requirements and the different entry programs. All FBI agents are required to be U.S. citizens who have a four-year degree from an accredited college. In addition, applicants must be at least 23 years old and have three years of prior work experience. Finally, students should take high school classes to prepare for the different FBI special agent entry programs.

FBI Special Agent Program Entry

These program areas include: accounting, computer science/technology, language, law and diversified. Within those program areas, agents are then prioritized by their critical skills in the following areas: foreign language proficiency, finance, engineering, accounting, intelligence, law enforcement, investigative, physical science expertise, military expertise, law experience and diversified experience.

Math and Technology Courses

If you are interested in applying to the specific accounting or computer science/technology entry of the FBI, you should focus on high school math and technology classes. The FBI is made up Many high schools offer math courses that might include math courses like algebra, calculus and geometry which are all relevant fields of study for FBI acceptance. Advanced placement math courses offer further high school challenges in these STEM fields. Focusing on math may provide an important foundation for an accounting degree, which could be used to investigate white collar crimes at the FBI. In addition, due to widespread computer crimes both domestically and internationally, the FBI often seeks applicants who are well-versed in computer science and technology. Signing up for computer classes, workshops and clubs throughout your high school career can be done not only through your high school campus but also with community STEM options, community college courses and dual enrollment opportunities.

Foreign Language Courses and the Humanities

The Federal Bureau of Investigation also seeks lawyers to guide the agency’s effort to uphold the law. In order to prepare for college and law school, high school students should focus on humanities courses that require a great deal of reading and writing. In addition, the FBI also employs agents who are fluent in several languages. Many high schools offer a range of language courses. Take advantage of the foreign language opportunities at your school; look for online language courses and workshops as well as foreign language courses offered at your local community college.

Special Agent Physical Requirements

FBI agents maintaining physically fit lifestyles helps them excel in the often-dangerous situations and environments of the career. The FBI physical fitness test includes timed sit-ups and push-ups, a 300 meter sprint and a timed 1.5 mile run. High school students can prepare for the physical requirements of the FBI by engaging in school sports, taking additional gym courses and working out at the school gym.