Online Certificate Program in Financial Crime Investigation

Program Title: Financial Crimes Investigator Certificate

Description: Financial crimes constitute a major portion of the total crime index in the U.S. These include corporate fraud, health industry frauds, mortgage, identity & insurance frauds and money laundering. The certificate course teaches the various techniques, tips and concepts that are essential to investigate the complex financial and economic crimes. Students will learn about locating, identifying and analyzing evidence. They will also be taught about forensic sciences, fingerprints, identifiable material and so on. The program includes advanced studies to improve learning, communication skills, critical reasoning and technical knowledge. This is a well-paying and well-regarded profession.

Syllabus: Besides the basic topics, specialized subjects are also included to make the curriculum more comprehensive. Some of the topics are:

• Consumer fraud
• Kickbacks & Bid rigging
• Inflated invoices
• Inventory theft
• Third Party Takeover
• Travel and subsistence claims
• Ghost employees
• Misappropriation schemes
• Computer-related crime
• Financial statement fraud
• Document Search Warrant
• Source and Application of Funds
• Document Search Warrant

Accreditation: The Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Format of Education: Online Course

Language: English 

Job Opportunities: Successful graduates can find employment with financial institutions, commercial banks, government agencies, insurance companies, accounting firms, corporate houses, private loan agencies, savings and loan associations, securities dealers, public accounting firms and mortgage companies. They can be employed as forensic science consultants, fingerprint technicians, print experts, evidence examiners and so on. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, jobs for Investigators will grow by 25% by 2012. Starting salaries are around $20,000 to $25,000 annually. Experienced & self-employed professionals can earn up to $100,000 a year.

University / Institutes:

Utica College: Utica College is a financially independent institution founded by Syracuse University in 1946. The college provides bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees in a wide variety of courses. The curriculum is comprehensive and industry-based. Students from more than 46 different countries are a part of Utica College. Each student receives individual attention from highly qualified and dedicated faculty.