Testimonial - Jim Deater, Bachelor’s Degree student, Intelligence Studies

Jim Deater, at just 37 years old, is already preparing for a second career. In 2011, he plans to retire from the Maryland State Police, after serving 22 years. His service has been exemplary, earning him the department’s 2007 Non-commissioned Officer of the Year award. During that year alone, he supervised 94 undercover drug investigations and 57 search and seizure warrants.

In addition to his demanding job, irregular work hours and short-notice travel, Deater is a father of three. That’s a challenging mix for someone who needs to find time to earn his bachelor’s degree.

“I knew a traditional university would never work for me,” says Deater. He thought online learning was the answer, but wanted to make sure the school was accredited.

The caliber of the courses was also important, since he already had field experience. Deater felt that American Military University, with its regional and national accreditation and career-relevant courses, was a match for him.

He began his intelligence studies program in 2007 and hopes to graduate in 2010. Then he plans to study for a Master’s in Strategic Intelligence.

“The courses are outstanding. You can tell that the professors have lived it and done it,” he says. “I’ve been doing police work for 20 years, but I’m still learning from AMU.”

“AMU requires a great deal of report writing and research,” says Deater. “I’ve learned new research methods, which I currently use at work."

“I am often called to testify as an expert witness in large complex court cases. This requires me to prepare a detailed written ‘opinion’ to provide to the defense, prosecution and the jury,” says Deater. “AMU professors have taken the time to assist me in refining and perfecting my report writing skills. The research methods have assisted me becoming a better supervisor and investigator.”

Deater adds that the intelligence courses have helped him with his current job assignment. He’s learned new ways to gather needed intelligence and new avenues to investigate.

Deater values the perspectives offered by his military classmates.

“They bring something into the discussion that we just don’t see,” he says.

In fact, Deater is such a fan of AMU, he’s convinced his wife, Jennifer, his brother, and two colleagues to enroll.

Deater admits it’s not easy to combine studies with his schedule. He and Jennifer have a firm schedule of devoting Sundays to homework, each studying at a computer in the home office. Deater also sets aside time each day for homework, even if it’s at 2 a.m.

“My wife and children are my motivation. I will not quit, which would promote a bad example. My kids always know I have finished whatever I have started. I do not want to show them any other example,” says Deater.

Eventually, Deater would like to work in intelligence, preferably in counter-drug and counter-terrorism. Earning his bachelor’s degree is a personal goal.

“I wanted to show my children the importance of a college education.”

Fast Facts:

►Residence:  Thurmont, MD

►Occupation:  Sergeant with the Maryland State Police

►Degree path: Pursuing his Bachelor's Degree in Intelligence Studies

►Career goal: Earn a position with the Department of Homeland Security after retiring