To work as a sketch artist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have many years of artistic training and practice;
• be skilled in interviewing techniques;
• be sensitive to people under stress;
• be creative; and
• have talent.

Education after high school

There are many ways to prepare for this occupation. Some sketch artists prepare through formal education and get a two- or four-year degree in fine art. Community colleges and universities offer these programs.

You can also prepare for this occupation by becoming a law enforcement officer. The education requirements for police recruits vary greatly. Some police agencies require only a high school diploma or equivalent. Others require one or two years of college. The FBI requires applicants to have a bachelor's degree. Check with the department or agency you are interested in to verify its requirements. A good way to prepare is to pursue a degree in law enforcement or criminal justice and take drawing classes.

All new officers must attend a law enforcement academy. Typical police academy programs are 18 to 30 weeks long. FBI agents receive 20 weeks of training.

Work experience

Look for opportunities to display your talent. Draw for your school paper or community paper. Create drawings for special events and enter contests.

On-the-job training

Many sketch artists complete specialized training program in forensic art. A few private schools offer these programs that last several weeks. The FBI also provides a training program. This is a three-week training program that covers two-dimensional and three-dimensional forensic art and facial reconstruction. You must wait three to five years to take this course once your name is on the waiting list.

Military training

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