Crime and Intelligence Analysis Program

Certificate Program

This program introduces students to the field of crime analysis, including five steps in the data analysis process: data collection, collation, analysis, dissemination, and feedback/evaluation. Learners will be introduced to sources of criminal justice information and an understanding of how to collect general and specific crime data; create data tracking matrices; use data to determine the emergence of new crime problems; and prepare basic charts, graphs, and crime and intelligence analysis reports. Students will also learn techniques to properly communicate findings to law enforcement agencies.

This program will help prepare students for internships and entry-level positions in both the public and private sectors. Courses within this program meet law enforcement analyst training standards as established by the International Association of Crime Analysts and the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts. The curriculum integrates hands-on exercises, practical applications, and experiences that closely mimic law enforcement settings. It will provide students with a toolbox of strategies, skill sets, experiences, and sample products that will allow them to hit the ground running at an investigative agency. These include an introduction to standard law enforcement software programs that aid in crime-solving, linking crimes together, knowledge of criminal behavior, and problem-solving methods.

Classes are taught by a cadre of experienced crime analysts, supervising crime analysts, criminal justice professors, and other law enforcement professionals knowledgeable in the fields of crime analysis, policing, and criminology. Many instructors are also part of the California Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) in CSULB's Crime Analysis Core Course. The Certificate curriculum is also based on the CA POST Crime and Intelligence Analysis curriculum delivered by the Center for Criminal Justice Research and Training at CSULB.

  • Law enforcement employees (both sworn and professional staff) who want to leverage data or assist in investigations.
  • Those looking for a career in law enforcement (not including peace officers).
  • Those looking for Crime and Intelligence Analysis positions in the private sector.
  • How to articulate and demonstrate the necessary skill set and job functions as an entry-level employee or intern in a crime analysis or investigative support unit