NCTC Polygraph Program

Course Description:

This course provides American Polygraph Association-accredited training in the field of forensic psychophysiology using polygraph techniques. The course provides current state-of-the-art training by practicing professionals and researchers in the forensic psychophysiological detection of deception field. The course is recognized by the American Association of Police Polygraphists and the National Polygraph Association, and exceeds the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the field of forensic psychophysiological detection of deception
2. Use the latest major polygraph techniques being taught and used in the profession, particularly in the areas of drug/narcotics investigation, asset forfeiture testing, and testing to identify potential terrorists and prevent terrorist activities
3. Use state-of-the-art computerized polygraph instrumentation
4. Use test data analysis techniques, particularly in the area of identification of sophisticated use of countermeasures and the application of anti- and counter-countermeasure procedures
5. Use basic and advanced information and practice in productive communication, interviewing, and interrogation methods
6. Conduct a professional and ethical forensic psychophysiological detection of deception exam
7. Perform in both an academic setting and as a practicing law enforcement polygraphist

Prerequisites: Must be a sworn law enforcement officer and sponsored by your agency; no criminal convictions for any moral turpitude crimes or any crimes above a summary/petty offense level; knowledge and proficiency with Windows computer operating system; five years of full-time street or criminal investigative experience with a public law enforcement agency or military police unit. Additionally, students must have successfully completed 60 college credits from a state/government-licensed institution (not including developmental courses)—official transcripts required. With less than 60 credits or five years’ experience, applicants will be evaluated by the selection board using 45 clock hours of documented, formal, law enforcement classroom training to equate one three-credit college course, with 900 clock hours required to equate to 60 college credits.

Course Length: 12 weeks / 480 hours

Who May Attend: Law enforcement officers assigned to drug law enforcement, intelligence gathering, and/or investigation and suppression of terrorist activities

Internship: An internship [Cooperative Education CFR21.4233(a)] will be required for final graduation
and certification of the participant. The internship [Cooperative Education CFR21.4233(a)] will require the completion of a minimum of 30 polygraph examinations within a 12-month period following the academic phase of the program, regardless of any state licensing requirements. This would be completed during your regular employment as a polygraphist with your law enforcement agency. The internship [Cooperative Education CFR21.4233(a)] must be completed through NCTC to receive certification even if an internship [Cooperative Education CFR21.4233(a)] is required for state licensing. They may run concurrently.