Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I

The Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I Certificate is designed to give graduates a recognized credential that can translate into greater recognition in a future career in forensics. After completing the required courses offered through the Texas Forensic Science Academy graduates will have a foundational understanding of forensics topics. All courses are available online making this a unique certificate!

Required Courses

Once all courses have been completed, applicants should confirm they meet all certificate requirements using the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I Application and return it to the TEEX Law Enforcement & Protective Services division. Eligibility of each candidate will be reviewed and email notification of decision will be sent.

Effective September 1, 2024, the unit price fee for the standard certificate will increase from $37 to $50. This fee change will apply for all applications received on or after this date.

Note: All courses must be taken within seven (7) years of the date of application. Only one course from another provider will be accepted if the curriculum and hours match TEEX curriculum.

Upon successful completion of the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I Certificate, continue your education with the Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level II Certificate.

CTISP Male Student in Laboratory

Texas Forensic Science Academy is now selling t-shirts! Order yours at the following link: bit.ly/teexstore

Texas Forensic Science Academy Merchandise


Category Course # Course Title Description Funding Options & Delivery Types Division Learn More Buttons
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA115 Foundations of Fingerprint Comparison
Identification of suspects through fingerprint comparison is critical for many investigators. This online course teaches participants the fundamental principles of fingerprint comparison while guiding them through the ACE-V Methodology (Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification). Participants will be provided with the history and science of fingerprint analysis and comparison while simulating the role of an expert witness in court.
This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Foundations of Fingerprint Comparison course #40063. Show less
Identification of suspects through fingerprint comparison is critical for many investigators. This online course teaches participants the fundamental principles of fingerprint comparison while guiding them through the ACE-V Methodology (Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification)….
Show more
Online LAW Learn More about Foundations of Fingerprint Comparison
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA116 Foundations 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 LAW Learn More about Foundations of Forensic Photography
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA118 Foundations 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 LAW Learn More about Foundations of Courtroom Testimony
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA300 Investigative 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 LAW Learn More about Investigative Tools and Equipment
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA301 Scene 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 LAW Learn More about Scene Basics: Security, Searches, and Documentation
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA303 Basic 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 LAW Learn More about Basic Fingerprint Processing
Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level I FSA304 Fingerprint Processing on Difficult Surfaces
This online course prepares participants to be able to identify and select proper fingerprint processing techniques for difficult surfaces encountered in the field. Participants will learn about the three types of difficult surfaces and the associated processing techniques. All information will be tied together in a final activity whereby the participant will simulate the collection of a fingerprint from a piece of evidence identified as a difficult surface.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Fingerprint Processing  on Difficult Surfaces course #78051. Show less
This online course prepares participants to be able to identify and select proper fingerprint processing techniques for difficult surfaces encountered in the field. Participants will learn about the three types of difficult surfaces and the associated processing techniques. All information…
Show more
Online LAW Learn More about Fingerprint Processing on Difficult Surfaces