How do I get into law enforcement without being a uniform cop?

Is there any way to get into law enforcement without starting out as a uniform cop? I.E. How can I start out in a suit and tie or street clothes? I would imagine I have to go through the academy, but will a college degree help me at all? Thanks.

I think in general you have to work your way up in the force and yes a college degree is always a help if you have more ambition.

You've got to work your way up. Those guys in suits are there because of their experience and their maturity in the job. Its not something that you just step into. It's like anything else in life, if you want it you have to work for it. I know guys with Masters Degrees in Crim that are still in uniform. I've almost finished my Bachelors Degree in Crim (May 09) and I've been in plain clothes since 2001 but it took me 17 years to get there.

No, unless you happen to get into an agency that has no uniform division, such as alcoholic beverage control, and they prefer prior experience. There is no FBI uniform, but somehow I just don't think you're FBI material. Not any kind of L.E. material, for that matter.

There are a few federal jobs that do not require a uniform, unless you think a suit and tie are uniforms. But as to a local law enforcement agency, no, you have to be a uniformed cop for a period of time.