The First Line Investigator (For First Responders) Certificate is designed to give graduates a recognized credential that translates into greater knowledge and skills as an investigator. After completing the required courses offered through the Texas Forensic Science Academy graduates will have a fundamental and well-rounded understanding of front line investigative skills.

Required Courses

Once all courses have been completed, applicants should confirm they meet all certificate requirements using the First Line Investigator (For First Responders) Application (forthcoming) and return it to the TEEX Law Enforcement & Protective Services Excellence division. Eligibility of each candidate will be reviewed and email notification of decision will be sent.

Note: All courses must be taken within seven (7) years of the date of the application. Only one course from another provider will be accepted if the curriculum and hours match TEEX curriculum. TEEX will review your course equivalency request and make a determination on a case-by-case basis; additional information may be required from you.

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CategoryCourse #Course TitleDescriptionFunding Options & Delivery TypesDivisionLearn More Buttons
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA106Crime Scene Investigation
Proper crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and documentation are key components to any criminal investigation. This course provides participants with information, techniques, and methods for conducting investigations ranging from general crime scene investigations to death investigations. Course instruction is through lecture and case review with emphasis on practical application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Intermediate Crime Scene Course #2106. Participant Testimonials:”Excellent. The hands on is more than anywhere else I’ve seen. This class should be the standard.””I work patrol special assignments and investigations. What I learned in this class will improve my skills and abilities in the field.” Show less
Proper crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and documentation are key components to any criminal investigation. This course provides participants with information, techniques, and methods for conducting investigations ranging from general crime scene investigations to death… Show more

Face-to-Face
ILEPSELearn More about Crime Scene Investigation
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA113Basic Criminal Investigation (Online)
This online course prepares participants for their transition from a traditional patrol/traffic function to an investigative position, such as a detective. The Basic Criminal Investigation course is also appropriate for those agencies that require officers to perform both patrol and investigative functions. From the initial response to case prosecution, officers will learn how to manage a wide variety of common criminal investigations. Emphasis is placed on preparation of affidavits, procurement and execution of search and arrest warrants, interview and interrogation procedures, and rules governing the collection and preservation of evidence. Additionally, participants will learn case preparation techniques and unique aspects of special topic investigations, such as narcotics, property crimes, and crimes against persons. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Basic Criminal Investigation Course #40051. Participant Testimonials:”This training has helped me to see where I could have done a better job with past cases and prepared me for better case work in the future.” Show less
This online course prepares participants for their transition from a traditional patrol/traffic function to an investigative position, such as a detective. The Basic Criminal Investigation course is also appropriate for those agencies that require officers to perform both patrol and… Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Basic Criminal Investigation (Online)
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA116Foundations of Forensic Photography
Photography is a critical element in the documentation of criminal investigations. This online course addresses the basic concepts of photography and their application to professional investigative documentation. For the final project, participants have the opportunity to capture photographs at a simulated crime scene, acting in the traditional role of an investigator for the case. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Foundations of Forensic Photography course #667369. Show less
Photography is a critical element in the documentation of criminal investigations. This online course addresses the basic concepts of photography and their application to professional investigative documentation. For the final project, participants have the opportunity to capture photographs… Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Foundations of Forensic Photography
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA118Foundations of Courtroom Testimony
Those who conduct investigations or deal with evidence are expected to testify as expert witnesses. This means they must establish credibility the moment they enter the courtroom and proceed to the witness stand to present their testimony. This online course provides participants with an understanding of the basic factors that create effective courtroom testimony.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Courtroom Testimony course #40065.This online course, along with the 24-hour Face-to-Face FSA119 Courtroom Testimony Practical Applications, will meet the 40-hour Courtroom Testimony requirement for multiple Texas Forensic Science Academy Certificate Programs. Show less
Those who conduct investigations or deal with evidence are expected to testify as expert witnesses. This means they must establish credibility the moment they enter the courtroom and proceed to the witness stand to present their testimony. This online course provides participants with an… Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Foundations of Courtroom Testimony
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA119Courtroom Testimony Practical Applications
Crime scene investigators and peace officers are expected to be expert witnesses. To be perceived as experts, they must establish credibility from the moment they enter the courtroom and proceed to the witness stand to present their testimony. This course provides participants with practical activities to develop and enhance their ability to give effective courtroom testimony. Activities include communication skills evaluations, presenting expert witness credentials, and mock testimony in a simulated courtroom.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Courtroom Testimony Course #40067. Show less
Crime scene investigators and peace officers are expected to be expert witnesses. To be perceived as experts, they must establish credibility from the moment they enter the courtroom and proceed to the witness stand to present their testimony. This course provides participants with practical… Show more

Face-to-Face
ILEPSELearn More about Courtroom Testimony Practical Applications
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA122Human Trafficking
Human trafficking has been described as one of the most atrocious crimes against humanity and is essentially a form of slave labor or involuntary servitude which involves the exploitation of humans for the sexual gratification of others and/or the exploitation of humans for any form of labor. Law enforcement, non-governmental agency personnel, and victim service providers all play a critical role in combating human trafficking in the state, the nation, and beyond. This online course is a required course and was established by the legislature mandate 81R-HB4009. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Human Trafficking Course #3270 and Advanced Human Trafficking Course #3271. Show less
Human trafficking has been described as one of the most atrocious crimes against humanity and is essentially a form of slave labor or involuntary servitude which involves the exploitation of humans for the sexual gratification of others and/or the exploitation of humans for any form of labor…. Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Human Trafficking
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA300Investigative Tools and Equipment
This online course prepares participants to be able to identify and select proper tools and equipment used by different law enforcement personnel. Participants will learn about the twelve different equipment categories, how to properly clean and store equipment, and how to use personal protection equipment to protect against biological hazards while tying together all information into practical activities. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Tools and Equipment course #667370. Show less
This online course prepares participants to be able to identify and select proper tools and equipment used by different law enforcement personnel. Participants will learn about the twelve different equipment categories, how to properly clean and store equipment, and how to use personal… Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Investigative Tools and Equipment
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA301Scene Basics: Security, Searches, and Documentation
This online course prepares participants to establish and secure scene boundaries, utilize proper search methods, and scene documentation. Participants will learn case documentation techniques, such as note taking, videography, photography, sketches, and reports while tying together all information into practical activities.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Scene Basics course #2210. Show less
This online course prepares participants to establish and secure scene boundaries, utilize proper search methods, and scene documentation. Participants will learn case documentation techniques, such as note taking, videography, photography, sketches, and reports while tying together all… Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Scene Basics: Security, Searches, and Documentation
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA303Basic Fingerprint Processing
This online course prepares participants for basic fingerprint processing. Participants will learn about the powders, brushes, tape, and cards used for developing prints, and how to locate, process, and document prints while tying together all information into practical activities.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Basic Fingerprint Processing course #3999. Show less
This online course prepares participants for basic fingerprint processing. Participants will learn about the powders, brushes, tape, and cards used for developing prints, and how to locate, process, and document prints while tying together all information into practical activities.This course… Show more

Online
ILEPSELearn More about Basic Fingerprint Processing
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA403Photography for Patrol
In this hands-on course, law enforcement personnel will be able to demonstrate their ability to capture quality photographs in the field and while on patrol. Participants will learn how to operate their camera while exploring the implications of light, depth of field, and common issues and errors while capturing quality photographs. Progression levels of photographs and their proper sequence will be covered in the context of scenes encountered by the call responsive patrol officer. Photographs as digital evidence will also be addressed. Course instruction is through lecture and application exercises.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Photography for Patrol Course #667372.   Show less
In this hands-on course, law enforcement personnel will be able to demonstrate their ability to capture quality photographs in the field and while on patrol. Participants will learn how to operate their camera while exploring the implications of light, depth of field, and common issues and… Show more

Face-to-Face
ILEPSELearn More about Photography for Patrol
First Line Investigator (For First Responders)FSA404Fingerprint Processing for Patrol
In this hands-on course, call responsive law enforcement personnel will be able to demonstrate their ability to develop and lift fingerprints using conventional and magnetic powder. Participants will learn the value of fingerprint evidence, how transfer occurs, and how to properly use various powders to develop and subsequently lift prints from multiple surface types. Course instruction is through lecture and application exercises.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Fingerprint Processing for Patrol Course #667373. Show less
In this hands-on course, call responsive law enforcement personnel will be able to demonstrate their ability to develop and lift fingerprints using conventional and magnetic powder. Participants will learn the value of fingerprint evidence, how transfer occurs, and how to properly use various… Show more

Face-to-Face
ILEPSELearn More about Fingerprint Processing for Patrol
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