Some criminal justice positions (sworn and civilian) may require a professional certification from a related organization. Certifications for entry level positions are normally not required before employment, but advanced employment may require a certification prior to application. A few examples are:
Advanced education is not a requirement at every law enforcement agency; however, some require upper level education in order to be considered for employment. This site can help the user find other degree options, if interested in programs outside of UMUC. It also links to police certifications for various states, where requirements may be vastly different.
(IF) - Certified fingerprint examiner
(IF) – Certified questioned document examiner
(IF) - Certified footwear & tire track examiner
(IF) – Certified biologist (for forensics)
(IF) – Certified chemist (for forensics)
(IF) – Certified firearms examiner
American Board for Certification in Homeland Security: ABCHS provides professionals who have experience in areas that work with homeland security the opportunity to apply for certification in homeland security. Some of the career areas include emergency management, communications, transportation, firefighting, rescue, hazardous materials response, and public safety and security. Membership in ABCHS includes active and retired military, law enforcement and security experts, first responders, and others dedicated to the important mission of protecting our nation.
http://www.abchs.com/
There are multiple levels of homeland security certification. The goal of each program is to validate the professional knowledge and skills of certified individuals in a particular area related to homeland security. There are costs associated with attaining these certifications. Where available, GI bill funds may be applied toward these costs; check with the Veterans Administration for determination and availability of benefits in a particular case. For details, visit http://www.gibill.va.gov/.
Certification in Homeland Security (CHS) I, II, and III
The first three levels of homeland security certification are all built around homework and tests. Level I is designed to provide a beginner overview of manmade and natural disasters and hazards. Participants will also begin to cover the vocabulary associated with homeland security. Certification is awarded after successful completion of a 50-question test. Level II provides an overview of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism itself and possible weapons that may be used in the event of an attack. Certification is awarded after the successful completion of a 75-question test. Level III introduces participants into procedures for large-scale responses and requirements for multijurisdictional efforts. Students learn about the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the National Response Framework (NRF), as well as the Incident Command System (ICS). Successful completion of a 75-question test is required to receive level III certification.
CHS Advanced Levels IV and V
Once you have successfully earned the first three certifications, you are eligible to move on to level IV. There are three required courses for this level: an introduction to the incident command system, an introduction to NIMS and an introduction to NRF. Level V coursework covers chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosives preparedness. These courses and the corresponding exams are offered in a classroom setting at the annual Certified in Homeland Security National Conference, as well as online.
Continuing Education
Those who hold certifications in homeland security are advised to take 15 credits of continuing education every year. This is possible through participation in seminars and events at CHS national or regional events, as well as through self-education via homeland security journals and publications.
http://www.abchs.com/
University of Maryland University College Certificate in Homeland Security Management: UMUC’s certificate in Homeland Security Management is designed to provide the technical and management skills necessary for individuals to manage and prepare response systems to a wide range of threats and vulnerabilities at the federal, state, and local level. The certificate requires successful completion of 15 credits.
http://www.umgc.edu/grad/gradcertificates/its_hsm.cfm
The National Sheriffs’ Association and the National Domestic Preparedness Coalition established two certification programs: Certified Homeland Protection Professional (CHPP) and Certified Homeland Protection Associate (CHPA). Each certification requires completion of course work and a certification exam. This certification is for both sworn and civilian personnel.
http://ndpci.us/certification/
The Disaster Recovery Institute offers various levels of certification for business continuity planners.
https://www.drii.org/
The Business Continuity Institute also offers various levels of certification for business continuity planners.
http://www.thebci.org/
International Association of Emergency Managers: IAEM offers various levels of certification for emergency managers.
www.iaem.com