Security Guards

Education & Training

Preparation

To work as a security guard, you must:

• have a high school diploma or GED;
• pass a physical exam and background check;
• complete on-the-job training; and
• be in good health.

Work experience

For most jobs you do not need previous work experience in this area. However, some jobs require a background in security. For instance, security screeners at airports need one year of experience in security work or as an x-ray technician.

On-the-job training

Most security guards receive on-the-job training. However, the amount and type of training you receive varies. Guards who will not use guns may receive up to one month of training.

Guards receive training in protection, report writing, and first aid. You also receive specific training for your individual assignment. Armed guards receive formal training in controlling weapons. They also learn to avoid using weapons.

Guards who work at companies that require high security receive extensive formal training. For example, guards at nuclear power plants receive several months of training. In addition to the training listed above, you also learn about operating alarm systems and spotting and dealing with security problems. Airport security screeners get 40 hours of classroom training and 60 hours of on-the-job training.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be law enforcement and security specialists. Training lasts from five to 12 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)

Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.

• Law Enforcement and Police Science
• Security Studies

Level of Education

The table below lists the level of education attained by a subset of workers in this occupation. The workers surveyed were between age 25 and 44.

* National data

Helpful High School Courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:

• Community Protection
• Criminal Justice Assisting
• Criminology
• Physical Education

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.