American College of Forensic Examiners International^SM

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The World's First Open Source, Peer-Reviewed Credential!

About the Registered Investigator, RI^® program

The Registered Investigator, RI program instructs, measures, and assesses knowledge and competency of investigators in both the public and private sectors. Providing a foundation of forensics basics, this course creates a measure of standardization in the field of investigation. As the National Academy of Sciences’ report on the Forensic Sciences reflects, certification for investigators is more crucial than ever before to fill the gaps in the field. The RI course will cover the following topics: 

• » Investigation types
• » Promoting your case 
• » Sources 
• » Evidence 
• » Crime scene processing 
• » Interrogations and interviews 
• » Homicide  
• » Trial

 

»  Click here to download the application.

»  Apply Online Now

»  CLICK HERE to visit a preview of the RI course site.

Learning Objectives

1. Define and give examples of different types of investigations. 
2. List the different types of sources used in an investigation. 
3. Describe how to use physical evidence.  Identify how to process a crime scene. 
4. Explain the differences between interrogations and interviews. 
5. Explain how a polygraph test works. 
6. Define how notes, photographs, and sketches are used during investigations. 
7. Identify why people may become violent. 
8. List the four forms of abuse. 
9. Use proper investigation terminology and definitions relating to investigation.

»  CLICK HERE to access the RI Frequently Asked Questions

Requirements

By Examination

• » Send us the completed application at this link or online.
• » Provide documentation of at least two years of related working experience. 
• » Provide copies any degrees, licenses, certificates, and/or commissions.  
• » Provide a résumé/curriculum vitae. 
• » Provide a copy of your driver’s license. 
• » At least 21 years of age.
• » Proof of resident status or legal alien.*
• » Pass the RI exam.   

 

By Portfolio Review

• » Send us the completed application at this link or online.
• » Provide an updated résumé/curriculum vitae, including at least 10 years of law enforcement/private sector (investigative) experience (no gaps).
• » Provide copies of any degrees, licenses, certificates, and/or commissions. 
• » Provide a copy of your driver’s license. 
• » At least 21 years of age.
• » Proof of resident status or legal alien.*
• » Provide at least two letters of recommendation from a high-ranking individual in the law enforcement/private sector.

*International candidates may participate in the Registered Investigator program by passing the Registered Investigator exam only. International candidates must also provide documentation of current country of residence.

Intensive Background Check, Due Diligence, Advisory Board and CEO Peer Review
Please note that all portfolio applications will undergo an intensive background check and peer-reviewed due diligence as set forth by the American Board of Registered Investigators. This background check will relate to the applicant’s respective education, skill, knowledge, training, and experience.  All portfolios will also be peer reviewed personally by the president and CEO of the American College of Forensic Examiners InstituteSM before being considered to be qualified to achieve the RI certification credential. Furthermore, all applicants for RI certification agree that the decision by the American Board of Registered Investigators Advisory Board and/or its president and CEO will be final and binding.

For more information call toll free (800) 423-9737.