faq

How long have you been conducting investigative training?

We have been training investigators for nearly 25 years. Our curriculum has been developed by industry professionals including attorneys, veteran investigators, an ex-Secret Service Agent and former Federal Law Enforcement Officers. back to top

How is your training different?

SIU’s Training Program sets the industry standard. It is considered the gold standard in the industry. In a word it is: “comprehensive”. Our graduates are expertly trained in every vital aspect of investigations. Not just mere theoretical training which is so prevalent in the industry, but rather real-world hands-on field training. We start at the beginning then build layer upon layer of knowledge and skill to produce a graduate who is fully prepared to successfully embark in an investigative career in a wide variety of areas of expertise within the industry. From understanding the legal and ethical aspects of this industry, to locating and profiling targets, to videography and producing court-ready packages, to covert surveillance and mobile surveillance, our comprehensive training program produces the most professionally prepared investigators. back to top

What type of equipment do I need to begin the SIU Training Program?

If you’re reading this, you already have the primary equipment necessary for you to begin an exciting training adventure with SIU: a computer, internet access, and a desire to train with the best in the industry. back to top

How many hours are included in the complete SIU Training Program?

The complete Online/Field Training Program includes 960 contact hours. The online portion of training may be scheduled according to the student’s preferences. The SIU Field Training Portion is taught onsite at your location by an SIU Certified Instructor and is scheduled in a cooperative manner. back to top

What topics are taught in the online training courses?

SIU’s Online Training Program is geared to teach you all the legal, administrative, and technical skills required for a winning career in investigations: law and ethics, industry history, profiling and backgrounding, covert tactics, video documentation/editing, and effective report writing for court-ready packages. SIU’s Online Training Program provides the critical foundation necessary to pursue many types of investigative positions throughout the industry. back to top

During the Online Training Program, how often will I interact directly with my Instructors?

SIU’s Online Training Program has been developed to make our program available to every one who is interested in gaining a foundation to join the investigative industry. We have achieved this goal by creating Independent Study courses that you can schedule around your busy life. We’ve combined this flexibility with Instructor Support. All of your homework assignments and tests are personally corrected by your Instructor and returned to you. Electronic communication is encouraged and Instructors also set specific hours for both course conference hours and office hours, to address emergent situations. SIU’s Certified Instructors are committed to your success. back to top

What will I learn in Field Training?

Successful completion of SIU’s Online Training Program is generally the pre-requisite to continuing on to SIU’s Field Training Program; however, SIU will consider waiving that pre-requisite on a case-by-case basis. SIU’s Field Training is a hands-on program taught by an SIU Certified Instructor and provided at your location. SIU’s Field Training not only reinforces the foundational Online Training Program but continues to build the student’s real-world investigative skills. SIU’s Field Training includes but is not limited to area profiling, locating and confirming targets in the field, static and mobile surveillance techniques, covert and overt interviewing, gaining court-ready video (using video-cameras and micro-cams), and blending into every environment. (see SIU Field Training Curriculum) back to top

What if I only want to take specific courses?

Like CEUs, some of our students may choose to attend specific classes without completing the entire training program; however, we do have some prerequisite classes that must be satisfied. (see the SIU Online Training Curriculum for clarification). back to top

Will I get a job immediately after graduation?

Although we cannot promise that you will gain immediate employment, SIU graduates are better prepared to succeed in the workforce in many divisions of the investigative industry. As an SIU grad, your professional prospects are greatly enhanced and you will have proof of your superior skills (i.e. court-ready reports and video authored by you!). back to top

Does SIU offer Management courses or any kind of advanced training?

SIU offers advanced training in leadership and management. Some of the courses include Stream-lining Administrative Functions, Mentoring/Supervising New Employees, Managing the Supervisors, Expanding Your Investigative Business, and the list goes on. (see Advanced Training Curriculum) back to top

Will you travel to provide training to a group?

SIU is happy to coordinate a complete Online and Field Training Program at your location. Upon mutual agreement of all the program details, SIU will provide a Certified Instructor and all necessary training materials. back to top