For high school students who are interested in taking “real” classes in Law Enforcement, Detective Investigation, Forensics, Law, or Criminal Justice for high school credit. (all online)

You can take 1 course or many – they are open to anyone. Students who complete the bundle of specific courses required by Texas A&M University will receive a certificate. (see credential lists at the bottom) Courses are all delivered online and require online attendance, homework, and passing quizzes/exams. The certificate can be used for high school credit, college application or resume, or personal interest, but this is not for college credit.

Course Number	Title	Cost	Time
FSA107	Basic Property Technician Collecting and storing evidence is a crucial aspect of an investigation. This online course will teach participants how to properly manage and store property and evidence for investigative purposes. Participants will also complete interactive scenarios	$55	16 hours
FSA113	Basic Criminal Investigation 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.	$75	40 hours
FSA114	Death Investigation From the moment a human body is discovered, there are many potential causes, factors, and circumstances that must be considered in completing a thorough criminal investigation and potential prosecution. This online course addresses the procedures for conducting investigations of various types of human death and the investigator’s role throughout the investigative process.	$95	40 hours
FSA122	Human Trafficking Human trafficking has been described as one of the most atrocious crimes against humanity. Human trafficking 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.	$45	8 hours
FSA115	Foundations of Fingerprint Comparison 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.	$55	16 hours
FSA116	Foundations of Forensic Photography Photography is a critical element in the documentation of criminal investigations. This 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.	$55	16 hours
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 course provides participants with an understanding of the basic factors that create effective courtroom testimony.	$55	16 hours
FSA300	Investigative Tools and Equipment 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.	$25	1 hour
FSA301	Scene Basics: Security, Searches, and Documentation 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.	$30	2 hours
FSA303	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.	$30	2 hours
FSA304	Fingerprint Processing on Difficult Surfaces 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.	$25	1 hour

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

Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level II

The Forensic and Investigative Sciences Level II 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 certificate and courses offered through the Texas Forensic Science Academy graduates will have an intermediate understanding of forensics topics. All courses are available online making this a unique certificate!