Certificate in Professional Investigation

The Boston University Certificate in Professional Investigation program is ideal for a range of individuals, including current investigative professionals or those in related fields, as well as those seeking to enter this exciting and rewarding field. This certificate program offers a unique course of study in the private investigation profession, and is taught by educators who are also experienced licensed private investigators. Designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working individuals, this comprehensive curriculum delivers over 160 hours of instruction in seven modules. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be awarded a Certificate in Professional Investigation from Boston University.

Who should attend

• Law enforcement professionals
• Career changers
• Paralegals
• Insurance adjusters
• Collections specialists
• Criminal justice and law students
• Private Investigators

Prerequisites
Students seeking to enroll in Professional Investigation courses must meet the following criteria:

• Have a High School Diploma or GED
• Have a solid command of the English language
• Possess basic computer skills, including a basic working knowledge of word processing programs and a web browser

Course materials
Students will be required to purchase textbooks, magazines, and other course materials that are not included in tuition costs. For the Investigative Surveillance module, students should also have access to or own a 35mm camera and a video camera.

This Cohort Program is held on 23 Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.  All students must enroll in the entire program and they take all courses together.

Learn more about the application process and download an application for admission to the Certificate in Professional Investigation Program.

Download the Professional Investigation brochure.
Download the Professional Investigation (Online) brochure.
Read about job prospects for PIs in 2009: "A Help-Wanted Sign for Fraud Investigators" (New York Times 3/21/09)
Read about the PI program in The Boston Globe feature article and in the Bostonia magazine article.
Read more in the Enterprise about PI students taking part in the search for a missing girl.
Download instructor information to learn more about our faculty.