Forensic Investigator I

The Forensic Investigator I Certificate is designed to give graduates a recognized credential that can translate into greater recognition within their respective field. After completing the required courses offered through the Texas Forensic Science Academy graduates will have a basic understanding of criminal investigation from capturing evidence and properly documenting a crime scene to understanding the basic factors that create an effective courtroom testimony.

Required Courses

Foundations of Forensic Photography
Forensic Photography I
Foundations of Courtroom Testimony
Courtroom Testimony Practical Applications
Basic Criminal Investigation (Classroom or Online)
Pick one of the following options:
- Forensic Technician OR
- Crime Scene Investigation and Latent Print Processing

Once all TEEX courses have been completed, applicants should confirm they meet all certificate requirements using the Forensic Investigator 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 the application. Only one course from another training provider will be accepted if the curriculum and hours match TEEX curriculum. To submit training for TEEX course equivalency review/consideration, please submit the following:

Copy of the course syllabus
Copy of the certificate of completion
Details of the training event
- Dates of training
- Format of training (in person, online, webinar, other)

TEEX’s approval decision is based on equivalency of course content, activities, and duration. TEEX will review your course equivalency request and make a determination on a case-by-case basis; additional information may be required from you.

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

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

Texas Forensic Science Academy Merchandise

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Category	Course #	Course Title	Description	Funding Options & Delivery Types	Division	Learn More Buttons
Forensic Investigator I	FSA101	Forensic Photography I	Capturing evidence and documenting the crime scene through skilled photography techniques is crucial to a proper criminal investigation. This course will address the basic concepts of photography and their application to professional crime scene documentation. Course instruction will be through lecture, case review, and practical exercises. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Forensic Photography Course #40053. Participant Testimonials:”I feel much more comfortable and confident with my camera and the knowledge I’ve obtained will help tremendously in the field.””I knew nothing of the camera I came in with other than to shoot in ‘auto’ mode. I can now use the camera correctly and efficiently.” Show less Capturing evidence and documenting the crime scene through skilled photography techniques is crucial to a proper criminal investigation. This course will address the basic concepts of photography and their application to professional crime scene documentation. Course instruction will be… Show more	Face-to-Face	LAW	Learn More about Forensic Photography I
Forensic Investigator I	FSA104	Latent Print Processing	Even with the advent of DNA and other forensic technologies, fingerprints continue to be one of the single most important methods for biometric identification and criminal investigation. During this course, participants will receive information and learn techniques and methods for processing latent fingerprints. Participants will learn how to enhance visible fingerprints from crime scenes, as well as from physical evidence. Course instruction is through lecture and practical laboratory application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Latent Print Processing Course #40055. Participant Testimonials:”This course is absolutely the most relevant course I have taken. I feel like I will be prepared when I enter into my internship.””The course exceeded my expectations. I have been working in this field for quite some time and did not expect to learn so much. The information gained was very applicable to my job duties.” Show less Even with the advent of DNA and other forensic technologies, fingerprints continue to be one of the single most important methods for biometric identification and criminal investigation. During this course, participants will receive information and learn techniques and methods for processing… Show more	Face-to-Face	LAW	Learn More about Latent Print Processing
Forensic Investigator I	FSA105	Basic Criminal Investigation	This 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:”I am so much more confident in the ability to do my job after taking this course.””Both a new investigator and a seasoned investigator could benefit from this class.” Show less This 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… Show more	Face-to-Face	LAW	Learn More about Basic Criminal Investigation
Forensic Investigator I	FSA106	Crime 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	LAW	Learn More about Crime Scene Investigation
Forensic Investigator I	FSA113	Basic 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	LAW	Learn More about Basic Criminal Investigation (Online)
Forensic Investigator 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 Investigator 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 Investigator I	FSA119	Courtroom 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	LAW	Learn More about Courtroom Testimony Practical Applications