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This program is offered in the classroom as well as in a degree completion format 100% online.

Uncover Your Calling: Become a Private Investigator at Madonna University

The comprehensive Private Investigator Certificate program equips you with the essential skills and knowledge you need to thrive in the dynamic world of private investigations, while respecting legal boundaries and ethical standards. 

Private Investigation Needs You!

3,800

Job openings are projected each year, on average, in private investigation. 

6%

Growth rate is expected in the industry, annually

$52,120

Is the median annual wage for private investigators in Michigan

Elevate Your Criminal Justice Career

This certificate complements your bachelor's or associate's degree in criminal justice, allowing you to deepen your expertise in a crucial field. You'll gain valuable knowledge in: 

  • The American Judicial Process: Understand the legal framework within which private investigators operate, navigating courts and legal procedures. 
  • Criminal Investigation: Learn evidence collection, interviewing techniques, crime scene preservation, and effective courtroom collaboration. 
  • Interviewing & Investigative Report Writing: Master the art of extracting information and translating it into clear, concise reports that meet professional standards. 
  • Private Investigation: Explore the industry, ethics, methodologies, and technology essential for successful investigations. 
An icon of a courthouse with text that says "the american judicial process" in blue
an icon of a book with handcuffs overtop with text that says "criminal investigation"
an icon of two people talking at a table with text that says "interviewing and investigative report writing"

 

Unlock Career Opportunities

Your skills as a private investigator are highly sought-after by private firms, offering diverse opportunities to utilize your expertise in various sectors:

  • Corporate Security: Conduct internal investigations, uncover employee misconduct, and protect company assets from fraud, theft, and espionage. 
  • Insurance Fraud: Investigate suspicious claims, gather evidence, and expose fraudulent activities to safeguard the integrity of the insurance industry. 
  • Asset Recovery: Locate and secure missing or stolen assets for individuals, businesses, and legal entities, employing creative strategies and meticulous research. 
  • Loss Prevention: Partner with retailers and businesses to investigate retail theft, shrinkage, and fraud, implementing preventative measures and deterring criminal activity. 
  • Family Law: Assist lawyers in gathering evidence related to child custody battles, infidelity investigations, and asset tracing to provide comprehensive legal support. 

Private investigation firms offer a dynamic and challenging environment where your investigative skills can make a real difference across diverse industries. You'll navigate complex cases, uncover hidden truths, and play a crucial role in protecting businesses, individuals, and legal interests. 

Livonia Police Officer smiles for the camera on Madonna's campus standing with his police vehicle in uniform

Start Your Private Investigation Journey Today

Whether you're a criminal justice student looking to specialize in private investigation or a criminal justice professional seeking a career change or advancement, Madonna University's Certificate in Private Investigation offers the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. 

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MORE INFORMATION

 

Student Success

Scott Jackson

Scott Jackson

Scott Jackson started at Madonna University in the fall of 2012 as a criminal justice major. He participated in two professional internships. His dream of becoming a police officer was realized when he was hired by the Michigan State Police in 2014. As an alumnus, he continues to support and mentor students.

 

Faculty Bios

Tara Kane, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Program Director, Master of Science Criminal Justice Leadership and Intelligence

Master of Science & Leadership Studies, Madonna University

Bachelor of Science, Madonna University

tmkane@madonna.edu 

734-432-5429, 2208

Tara Kane, Ph.D.

Ms. Tara Kane joined the full-time faculty in 2013 coming from the West Bloomfield Police Department. She retired as a Detective/Sergeant of Investigations. She completed her M.S.B.A. in 2008 and her B.S. in 2002, both from Madonna University.

She teaches in the area of criminology and special topics, with subject matter concentration on vulnerable populations and sexual assault. Her interests include the suspected abuse and neglect of children, domestic violence and sexual assault. She is actively engaged in Title IX initiatives related to sexual assault on college campuses, as well as community engagement with partners combating Human Trafficking.

She serves as one of the faculty advisory board members for the student group Stop A.V.T. (Stop all Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking).  She is a faculty advising fellow, committed to the Appreciative Advising model approach.  She believes that by addressing students’ dreams and goals from day one equals the best recipe for future success- academically and professionally.

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Victor LauriaAssistant Professor, Interim Department Chair,
Program Director, Emergency Management, Fire Science and Occupational Safety and Health

M.S.-T.C. Eastern Michigan University

B.S. Northern Michigan University

Assistant Chief of Police (Ret.) Novi Police Department

Graduate FBI National Academy – Session #250

vlauria@madonna.edu

734-432-5438, 2418

Victor Lauria

Victor Lauria is an Assistant Professor in the Criminal Justice Department. He joined the full time faculty of Madonna University in 2015. Prior to joining Madonna, he served as an Assistant Chief of Police with the City of Novi. During his 28-year law enforcement career, Victor served in a wide variety of positions. He worked as a patrol officer, undercover narcotics officer, a K-9 handler, and detective, as well as numerous supervisory positions. His work has been recognized by the International Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association, National Retail Federation and the Michigan Association of Private Investigators. The National Geographic Channel profiled one of Victor's cases in the documentary film "The Science of Interrogation."

 His favorite subjects to teach are interview and interrogation, and ethics.

 In his free time, Victor enjoys spending time with his wife, Sherie, and their three children as well as hunting and fishing.

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Robert GreenwoodAssistant Professor

Master of Public Administration - Western Michigan University

Bachelor of Arts - Concordia University 

Parole/Probation Manager (Ret.) Michigan Department of Corrections

Graduate MDOC Corrections and Parole/Probation Officer Academy

rgreenwood@madonna.edu

734-432-5439, 2422

Robert Greenwood

Robert is an assistant professor in the Criminal Justice Department. He began teaching at Madonna in 2004 as an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice Department before joining as a full-time faculty member in 2019.

Robert has 35 years of experience working for the Michigan Department of Corrections in community corrections and at several state correctional/mental health facilities. He has worked as a corrections officer, parole officer, and probation officer for the 38th Circuit Court. Robert has served in a supervisory capacity in the Michigan Department of Corrections and Community Health, as an Assistant Resident Unit Supervisor, Captain, Deputy Director of Safety and Security and retiring as a Parole/Probation Manager.

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