How do I become an investigator?

Question

I have completed an online study course with Education Direct and have recieved my certificate of completion in the field of private investigations. My only problem is that I cannot work on my own without many years of futher training or internship, and there are very few in this field in the state of Michigan. In the study guides, it said there was manythings I could use my this education for, such as crime scene photographer, arson investigator and many other jobs in law enforcement without being an actual police officer. However, after much looking online and even going to the local police departments, no one seems to know where to go or who to talk to to start in these jobs. Any information you could give me would be helpful. I live in Muskegon,, MI, and would prefer to remain in the general vicinity.

Answer 1

I am in the same situation (here in San Francisco). I completed an online study course (graduated with Highest Honors, too) and like you, I cannot afford to due a lenghty internship on little to no pay until I can take the state exam for my license. You might want to check with various attorneys....they may, from time to time, need the assistance of a fledgling PI for some of their cases. If you could align yourself with a few of them, that could not only get your foot in the door, but get your field experience and other contacts, as well. Good luck and best wishes....I hope you reach that dream!!!!

Answer 2

Most paranormal investigators accomplish that out of thier possess pocket as a interest. It isnt fairly a profession area. If you wish to ultimately make it right into a profession, here's what you have to do. Start investigating paranormal claims. Really assess, do not simply anticipate everyones declare is paranormal. Also, do not get into pseudo-clinical ideas like unmeasurable power fields, vibrations, chakras and so forth. These ideas are in general spent and most effective enchantment to very ignorant new agers. Then if in case you have a host of investigations underneath your belt and a few cool fabric, write a booklet. Selling the booklet is wherein your revenue will come from. If its intelligently written and also you fairly investigated the web sites and claims, it will have to be very exciting and effortless to promote. Good good fortune.

Answer 3

It depends on where you want to work. Different states have different requirements. Also, there are different types of investigators. To become a private investigator, you need a license in most states. However, you can work for a private investigator without a license.

You usually don't need a college degree to become a private investigator. Many private investigators have a college degree, and some firms might require their investigators to have a degree. College courses in criminal justice and political science can be helpful to aspiring private investigators. Although previous work experience is generally required, some people enter the occupation directly after graduating from college with a two or 4 year degree in criminal justice or police science.

There are different types of private investigators. Some are general investigators and some specialize in a particular area or area. Consider what type of investigations you might want to conduct. Corporate investigators typically need a 4 year degree. Coursework in finance, accounting, and business is often preferred. Because many financial investigators have an accountant’s background, they typically have a 4 year degree in accounting or a related field. Many computer forensics investigators need a 4 yeard degree in a field such as computer science or criminal justice. Many colleges and universities now offer certificate programs and degrees in computer forensics. Because computer forensics specialists need both computer skills and investigative skills, extensive training may be required if you want to become a private investigator of this type. Many computer forensic investigators learn their trade while working for a law enforcement agency, where they are taught how to gather evidence and to spot computer-related crimes. Many people enter law enforcement to get this training and to establish a reputation and make contacts before moving on to the private sector.

Private investigators typically have previous work experience. Some have worked for insurance or collections companies, as paralegals, in finance, or in accounting. Again, many private investigators enter the field after serving in law enforcement, the military, or federal intelligence jobs. These people, who frequently are able to retire after 25 years of service, often become private investigators as a second career. Having law enforcement experience can help.

Answer 4

Call some lawyers that handle divorces, they often need PI's. Ask who they use. If there's no one around your area, that's good. Call the people they use and talk about opening a branch office. You'd have the best of both worlds, working on your own with established offices giving you guidance and business.