Police Officer MBA Prospects
I'm beginning police academy in a large, metropolitan city in a few weeks. I recently graduated as an honors political science major from a target university with a decent (3.1) GPA and very strong extracurriculars. Serving as an officer would be a great way for me to perform a public service, gain a ton of discipline, and positively impact people's lives. The goal would be to achieve some form of rank (sgt, maybe lieut) and serve in a tactical specialized unit (such as homicide). I also hope to volunteer with nonprofits in the city in promoting community policing efforts. Edit: I'm also a minority (AA), unsure if that makes any difference here.
After a few years, I'd like to get an MBA and try to break into finance, getting some experience in IB or VC, with an end goal of working at an impact investment firm. I was wondering how my time as an officer would be perceived by MBA programs as work experience? Given that it's a paramilitary organization, I'd imagine it may be somewhat comparable to military experience. With a strong GMAT score, what are my chances of getting into a strong MBA program? Does anybody have any experience or advice on this?
MBA programs love unique stories. Being a cop or a detective is definitely more interesting than being finance male #36. With a solid GMAT, you could definitely have a shot.
Assuming you progress as you intend, I think your experience and especially the leadership component will be valued. A high GMAT will be very important given your undergrad GPA, which is low for top programs. In addition, poli sci doesn't demand a lot of math.
To address possible concerns about both your undergrad record and lack of quant skills, before you apply I suggest you take a few business related courses and earn A's in them. Courses like Statistics for Business, Accounting, Finance, Econ 1. A few programs like to see calculus.
For more suggestions on overcoming a low GPA, please see 5 A’s for Your Low GPA or for the summary, go to The 5 Steps for Dealing with a Low GPA Cheat Sheet.
I appreciate it. What type of programs would you suggest looking into? Local colleges perhaps, or some sort of notable online program? Also, since you're an admissions consultant, to what extent would my status as a minority help?
You would make a fantastic applicant and really stand out. While the GPA is lowish, it can definitely be offset by a strong GMAT + your experience, and I think you'd have a shot at plenty of great schools, including IB targets like Stern, Cornell, and UVA. Good luck on the force dude. Much respect.
Law enforcement experience for MBA? (Originally Posted: 10/14/2014)
How would t10 MBA adcomms view experience in a police force or U.S. Marshals? Assuming ~3.5 GPA and a solid GMAT.
Thanks man, I appreciate it. Given where I spent my undergrad, the effort I'm putting into studying for the GMAT, and the experience I'll gain from this amazing opportunity, I'm hoping it shakes out well in a few years.
Sounds amazing if you ask me. The more you "serve" others and the more off the wall it is, I would think it would be great, especially if you could show your teamwork and leadership skills busting balls and shooting at thugs.
If you wait till you’re an LT by that time it’s probably to late. You’d have close to 10 years on and half way to retirement. If the pension system is funded (prob not) then look for an out but if you’re going to do the MBA route don’t stay on the job more than 4 years.
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