American Council on Education (ACE)

Network Assurance covers secure network practices necessary to protect networked systems against attacks and exploits. Network security administration topics include firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, common cryptographic ciphers, AAA (authentication, authorization, and accounting), server and client security, and secure policy generation. This course also includes information on securing cloud-based networks and applications.As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

This course covers investigative methods and standards for the acquisition, extraction, preservation, analysis and deposition of digital evidence from storage devices. This course offers a wide array of forensics situations that are applicable to the real world. Students will learn how to find traces of illegal or illicit activities left on disk with computer forensics tools and manual techniques, and how to recover data intentionally hidden or encrypted by perpetrators. As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

 Foundations of Cyber Crimes highlights a range of cyber crimes and the appropriate response by first responders and other local, state, and federal agencies that may encounter them. Participants will identify legislative, organizational, and suggested personal efforts to control or prevent cyber crimes. This course examines cyber and cyber facilitated non-violent white-collar crimes, fraud and financial crimes, and violent crimes. The broad landscape of the cyber crimes discussed in this course illustrates the fact that almost all crimes can either be directly committed or indirectly facilitated through the cyber domain-a result of society’s increasing integration and dependence on the Internet and computers into nearly every aspect of daily life.As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

Introduction to Cyber Incident Management provides practical guidelines on responding to incidents effectively and efficiently as part of an incident response program. Primary topics include detecting, analyzing, prioritizing, and handling cyber incidents. Participants will be presented with real-world examples and scenarios to help provide knowledge, understanding, and capacity for effective cyber incident analysis and response. As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

 Information Security Basics is designed to teach entry and mid-level IT workers the technological fundamentals of information security. The goal of this course is to provide students with some preliminary knowledge of computer security to help in identifying and stopping various cyber threats. In addition to introducing information assurance, students will also learn general concepts, an overview of TCP/IP, introductory network security, introductory operating system security, and basic cryptography.  As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

 This course covers standards and best practices for ethical computing. This course offers a wide array of situations that are applicable to the real world. Students will learn about privacy, intellectual property, professional practices, freedom of speech, and ethical hacking.? As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

Disaster Recovery for Information Systems is designed to teach business managers principles and practices of disaster recovery planning including: Overview of business continuity and disaster recovery planning Planning process and strategies Implementation and management of a disaster recovery plan Work around procedures  Technical vulnerabilities faced by organizations Legal issues that may confront an organization As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

This is an intermediate level course covering topics on information assets, identifying risks, and management processes highlighting best principles and practices. It will provide training in information risk-related tools and technologies (such as asset evaluation, business impact analysis, risk identification, risk quantification, risk response, security policies and compliance) for better understanding of potential threats and vulnerabilities in business online, and learning to adopt levels of security measures and best practices. As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

This course covers secure programming practices necessary to secure applications against attacks and exploits. Topics covered include fundamental concepts of secure software development, defensive programming techniques, secure design and testing, and secure development methodologies. Network security administration topics include firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, common cryptographic ciphers, AAA (authentication, authorization, and accounting), server and client security, and secure policy generation. As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

The use of computers and networked systems in the workplace has opened businesses and organizations to a variety of risks. Every employee using a computer connected to the organization’s network is a potential point of entry for a cyber attack. For this reason, cybersecurity and protecting the organization’s data/information is every employee’s responsibility. This course will help students understand the different types of cyber attacks their company may face, the type of information that is at risk, how to recognize cyber attacks, and why it is important for everyone in the organization to participate in cybersecurity.As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

The purpose of this course is to provide students a general understanding of cybersecurity risk and best practices for protecting themselves and their devices from cyber attacks. This course will introduce you to the basics of protecting your computer and the data it stores as well as protecting yourself when you are online, on social media, and while using your mobile or smart devices.As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

As computers and mobile devices become a part of most people’s everyday lives, the challenges of protecting computers and mobile devices and the data on them increases. Part of protecting computers and mobile devices is understanding how to recognize when they are compromised, the steps to take to respond to compromised computers and devices, and how to recover once they have been rid of any infection. This course will introduce students to various types of cyber attacks and how to detect and respond to them in order to protect their data and information.As part of a Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA) cooperative agreement training program, this course is available at no direct cost to state, county, and local government agencies. Show less

Physical evidence collected at the scene of a crime is often the single most critical element in criminal prosecution and conviction. This course provides participants with information, techniques, and methods for conducting crime scene investigations and processing crime scene evidence. Course instruction is through lecture and case review with emphasis on practical laboratory application, scenario-based practical application, and proper photography techniques. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Forensic Technician Course #40052 and Intermediate Crime Scene Search #2106. Participant Testimonials:”I have never had better hands on instruction. This was the best course I have ever taken. [I] should have completed the course years ago.””This class not only met my expectations but exceeded them. I look forward to returning to work and applying what I have learned now.” Show less

Capturing evidence and documenting the crime scene through skilled photography techniques is crucial to a proper criminal investigation. This course will address the basic concepts of photography and their application to professional crime scene documentation. Course instruction will be through lecture, case review, and practical exercises. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Forensic Photography Course #40053. Participant Testimonials:”I feel much more comfortable and confident with my camera and the knowledge I’ve obtained will help tremendously in the field.””I knew nothing of the camera I came in with other than to shoot in ‘auto’ mode. I can now use the camera correctly and efficiently.” Show less

The science of bloodstain pattern analysis can assist investigators in making determinations, such as, relative positions of the victim or suspect, the nature of the force and weapon used, and the approximate number of blows struck during an assault. This course is designed for those who investigate crime scenes containing blood evidence, such as assaults and death investigation, as well as those who process bloodstained evidentiary items. Participants will learn the basic knowledge of bloodstain pattern analysis, including methods and skills for the scientific interpretation of bloodstain evidence at crime scenes and on evidentiary items. Course instruction is through lecture and case review with emphasis on experiments and practical application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Course #40057. Participant Testimonials:”One of the best classes I’ve been to!! I was very impressed with the knowledge and teaching skills of the instructors. Great course.””The instructors took the time to make sure every student understood the material. Very impressed!” Show less

Even with the advent of DNA and other forensic technologies, fingerprints continue to be one of the single most important methods for biometric identification and criminal investigation. During this course, participants will receive information and learn techniques and methods for processing latent fingerprints. Participants will learn how to enhance visible fingerprints from crime scenes, as well as from physical evidence. Course instruction is through lecture and practical laboratory application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Latent Print Processing Course #40055. Participant Testimonials:”This course is absolutely the most relevant course I have taken. I feel like I will be prepared when I enter into my internship.””The course exceeded my expectations. I have been working in this field for quite some time and did not expect to learn so much. The information gained was very applicable to my job duties.” Show less

This course prepares participants for their transition from a traditional patrol/traffic function to an investigative position, such as a detective. The Basic Criminal Investigation course is also appropriate for those agencies that require officers to perform both patrol and investigative functions. From the initial response to case prosecution, officers will learn how to manage a wide variety of common criminal investigations. Emphasis is placed on preparation of affidavits, procurement and execution of search and arrest warrants, interview and interrogation procedures, and rules governing the collection and preservation of evidence. Additionally, participants will learn case preparation techniques and unique aspects of special topic investigations, such as narcotics, property crimes, and crimes against persons. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Basic Criminal Investigation Course #40051. Participant Testimonials:”I am so much more confident in the ability to do my job after taking this course.””Both a new investigator and a seasoned investigator could benefit from this class.” Show less

Proper crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and documentation are key components to any criminal investigation. This course provides participants with information, techniques, and methods for conducting investigations ranging from general crime scene investigations to death investigations. Course instruction is through lecture and case review with emphasis on practical application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Intermediate Crime Scene Course #2106. Participant Testimonials:”Excellent. The hands on is more than anywhere else I’ve seen. This class should be the standard.””I work patrol special assignments and investigations. What I learned in this class will improve my skills and abilities in the field.” Show less

Collecting and storing evidence is a crucial aspect of an investigation. This online course will teach participants how to properly manage and store property and evidence for investigative purposes. Participants will also complete interactive scenarios by applying Texas law and proven practices developed by the Texas Association of Property and Evidence Inventory Technicians (TAPEIT). The practices learned in this course may be superseded by your agency departmental policy. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Basic Property Technician Course #40062. Show less

Biological evidence resulting from violent crime presents unique and challenging issues for crime scene investigators. This course provides participants with information, techniques, and methods for processing and documenting violent crime scenes. Participants will learn how to assess assaults, sexual crimes, and homicides, as well as the physical evidence from such scenes. Course instruction is through lecture, case review, and practical application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Processing Evidence of Violent Crimes Course #40058. Participant Testimonials:”This was a very good training! I loved the hands on aspect.””The instructors were awesome and provided great insight of the crime scene applications and fundamentals.” Show less

Clandestine burial sites and scattered human remains pose serious issues for criminal investigators. This course is designed for those responsible for death investigations, including cold case death investigations dealing with skeletal remains. Participants will be introduced to the field of forensic anthropology and receive instruction in the recovery and analysis of human remains. Participants will have the unique opportunity to excavate a cadaver while at the body farm at Texas State’s Freeman Ranch. Course instruction is through lecture, case review, and field application. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Skeletal Death Investigation Course #40060. Participant Testimonials:”Excellent class for law enforcement personnel tasked with criminal investigations.” Show less

From the moment a human body is discovered, there are many potential causes, factors, and circumstances that must be considered in completing a thorough criminal investigation and potential prosecution. This course addresses the procedures for conducting investigations of various types of human death and the investigator’s role throughout the investigative process. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Death Investigation Course #40059. Participant Testimonials:”The objectives are realistic for an investigator without any death investigation training.””I think that regardless of one’s training this course can benefit any death investigator. Very applicable to our job as detectives.” Show less

Once an investigator has mastered basic forensic photography, there are advanced skills and techniques that can allow for greater effectiveness in documenting crime scenes and physical evidence.  Participants will learn photographic techniques such as low light/nighttime, ultraviolet, infrared, and laser photography. Course instruction is through lecture, case review, and application exercises. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Forensic Photography II Course #40054. Participant Testimonials:”15 years CSI and still learned many new techniques.””They had great hands-on activities and materials which aided in the learning process for this course.” Show less

This online course prepares participants for their transition from a traditional patrol/traffic function to an investigative position, such as a detective. The Basic Criminal Investigation course is also appropriate for those agencies that require officers to perform both patrol and investigative functions. From the initial response to case prosecution, officers will learn how to manage a wide variety of common criminal investigations. Emphasis is placed on preparation of affidavits, procurement and execution of search and arrest warrants, interview and interrogation procedures, and rules governing the collection and preservation of evidence. Additionally, participants will learn case preparation techniques and unique aspects of special topic investigations, such as narcotics, property crimes, and crimes against persons. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Basic Criminal Investigation Course #40051. Participant Testimonials:”This training has helped me to see where I could have done a better job with past cases and prepared me for better case work in the future.” Show less

From the moment a human body is discovered, there are many potential causes, factors, and circumstances that must be considered in completing a thorough criminal investigation and potential prosecution.  This online course addresses the procedures for conducting investigations of various types of human death and the investigator’s role throughout the investigative process. This course meets the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Death Investigation Course #40059. Participant Testimonials:”I was recently promoted to investigations and this course will definitely make me more capable of doing my job.””Course material was good and I would really recommend this course to any police officers whether they are new officers or veterans.” Show less

Identification of suspects through fingerprint comparison is critical for many investigators. This online course teaches participants the fundamental principles of fingerprint comparison while guiding them through the ACE-V Methodology (Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification). Participants will be provided with the history and science of fingerprint analysis and comparison while simulating the role of an expert witness in court. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Foundations of Fingerprint Comparison course #40063. Show less

Photography is a critical element in the documentation of criminal investigations. This online course addresses the basic concepts of photography and their application to professional investigative documentation. For the final project, participants have the opportunity to capture photographs at a simulated crime scene, acting in the traditional role of an investigator for the case. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Foundations of Forensic Photography course #667369. Show less

Those who conduct investigations or deal with evidence are expected to testify as expert witnesses. This means they must establish credibility the moment they enter the courtroom and proceed to the witness stand to present their testimony. This online course provides participants with an understanding of the basic factors that create effective courtroom testimony.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements for Texas Forensic Science Academy Courtroom Testimony course #40065.This online course, along with the 24-hour Face-to-Face FSA119 Courtroom Testimony Practical Applications, will meet the 40-hour Courtroom Testimony requirement for multiple Texas Forensic Science Academy Certificate Programs. Show less

Crime scene investigators and peace officers are expected to be expert witnesses. To be perceived as experts, they must establish credibility from the moment they enter the courtroom and proceed to the witness stand to present their testimony. This course provides participants with practical activities to develop and enhance their ability to give effective courtroom testimony. Activities include communication skills evaluations, presenting expert witness credentials, and mock testimony in a simulated courtroom.This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Courtroom Testimony Course #40067. Show less

Identification of suspects through fingerprint comparison is critical to many investigations. This course reinforces fundamental principles of fingerprint comparison and guides participants through the ACE-V Methodology (Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification). Emphasis is placed on activities where participants demonstrate their ability to identify levels of details in impressions, complete fingerprint classifications according to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and Henry Classification systems, and conduct sufficiency assessments for comparison exercises. The course culminates with a series of final activities where participants conduct comparisons of latents to exemplars (for both fingerprints and palm prints) to reinforce the concepts learned in the course. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Texas Forensic Science Academy Latent Print Comparison I Course #40066. Show less

Human trafficking has been described as one of the most atrocious crimes against humanity and is essentially a form of slave labor or involuntary servitude which involves the exploitation of humans for the sexual gratification of others and/or the exploitation of humans for any form of labor. Law enforcement, non-governmental agency personnel, and victim service providers all play a critical role in combating human trafficking in the state, the nation, and beyond. This online course is a required course and was established by the legislature mandate 81R-HB4009. This course meets Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) requirements Human Trafficking Course #3270 and Advanced Human Trafficking Course #3271. Show less

The Disaster Management for Public Services and Public Works course provides real world training to public service professionals helping to provide both the knowledge and skills necessary to protect their communities and infrastructure from potential or actual threats. During this course, participants work together in multidisciplinary teams to apply the course information with their professional experience in a variety of hands-on, small group activities, and disaster scenarios. This course brings together emergency management personnel who are expected to identify and mitigate hazards, and who plan and manage disaster response and recovery efforts within their jurisdictions. Representatives from public service agencies, fire services, law enforcement, emergency medical services, emergency planning, public health, and hazardous materials response organizations are encouraged to attend. Participants will be introduced to natural and man-made disasters to which public services may be vulnerable. This course also explains emergency planning and management and the regulatory systems, documents, and directives that guide disaster response. Response factors, such as hazard control zones, resources, and responder safety are also discussed. Recovery considerations, such as funding assistance and demobilization, are also explained. Show less

The Disaster Management for Electric Power Systems course provides students with information specific to preparing for, protecting against, responding to, recovering from, and mitigating against a threatened or actual natural disaster, an act of terrorism, or other man-made disaster affecting electric power facilities and systems. During this course, participants will be guided through discussions and exercise that will assist them in: Improving security against physical damage, organizational disruption, and control system vulnerability Enhancing the electric power systems ability to plan, prevent, detect, respond, and restore their facilities in emergency situations Developing an understanding and appreciation for working with the media. Show less

The Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry (OSHA #511) course covers OSHA Standards, policies, and procedures in general industry. Topics include scope and application of the OSHA General Industry Standards, general industry principles and special emphasis on those areas in general industry which are most hazardous. Upon course completion, students will have the ability to define general industry terms found in the OSHA General Industry Standards, identify hazards which occur in general industry, locate and determine appropriate OSHA General Industry Standards, policies, and procedures, and describe the use of OSHA General Industry Standards and regulations to supplement an ongoing safety and health program.NOTE: This course is taught in English. Show less

The Customer Service Inspector/Cross Connection Control course is primarily designed to provide the necessary training for individuals who have met the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality requirements and wish to obtain a customer service inspector license. The holder of the customer service inspector license may perform a Customer Service Inspection (CSI) as outlined by the rules and regulations provided by the TCEQ. Other licensed individuals may also receive valuable information relating to their field. The participant, during this course, will gain the necessary information and understanding of the federal, state, and local rules and regulations as they pertain to the Customer Service Inspector (CSI), Plumbing Inspector, Water Supply Protection Specialist (WSPS), Water Purveyor, and Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT). During this course, the participant will learn how to find and eliminate cross-connections. The participant will also learn ways to identify water piping, solder, and flux that exceed the allowable lead (Pb) limits, as set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the TCEQ. The participant will also learn the proper installation and application of Backflow Prevention Assemblies. Show less

**PLEASE NOTE** This course has been approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to fulfill 20 credit hours in the following operator license area(s): – Wastewater Operator LicenseThe Basic Wastewater Operations course provides participants with an introduction to wastewater collection and treatment along with a brief review of the water cycle. The course covers sources and pretreatment of domestic waste as well as characteristics of wastewater. Experienced trainers guide the class through best practices and related standards utilizing classroom discussion and cover all associated laws specific to wastewater. Show less

**PLEASE NOTE** This course has been approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to fulfill 20 credit hours in the following operator license area(s): – Wastewater Operator License The Wastewater Treatment course covers practical aspects of operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants, emphasizing the use of safe practices and procedures. In addition to the information provided about state requirements, participants will learn about the composition and characteristics of wastewater, secondary treatment processes, disinfection of wastewater, and laboratory controls. Show less

**PLEASE NOTE** This course has been approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to fulfill 20 credit hours in the following operator license area(s): – Wastewater Operator License The Wastewater Collection course covers practical aspects of operating and maintaining a wastewater collection system. This course includes instruction in the importance of wastewater collection. During the course, participants learn the regulatory requirements of collection systems and collection system design parameters. Students also learn about the construction of a collection system, the use of lift stations, basic maintenance and operational procedures, industrial waste monitoring, collection system management and solving problems utilizing wastewater collection calculations. Show less

**PLEASE NOTE** This course has been approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to fulfill 20 credit hours in the following operator license area(s): – Wastewater Operator License- Water Operator License The Water Utilities Calculations course provides participants with fundamentals surrounding the determination of flow level formulas, area and volume calculations, as well as water and wastewater treatment plant calculations. During the course, students are led through the basic steps required to determine these calculations and apply each to an overall system protocol linked to best practices reporting. Show less

**PLEASE NOTE** This course has been approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to fulfill 20 credit hours in the following operator license area(s): – Wastewater Operator License- Water Operator License The Identification of Microorganisms course provides students with information specific to the proper collection of samples. Once collected, utilizing microscopes provided by TEEX, students are provided basic training on proper operation and led through classification exercises for microorganisms, algae, and protozoa. All scenarios are designed to help participants better determine higher-level organisms and how each affects the biological treatment process. Show less

**PLEASE NOTE** This course has been approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to fulfill the following credit hours in the following operator license area(s): – Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Operator License (40 Hours)- Customer Service Inspector Operator License (12 Hours)- Landscape Irrigator Operator License (12 Hours)- Wastewater Operator License (12 Hours)- Water Operator License (12 Hours)- Water Treatment Specialist Operator License (12 Hours) The Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester course provides participants with an interest in cross-connection controls and proper maintenance of water quality standards with guidelines used for acceptable practices of testing backflow prevention devices. Students will be presented with the principles of cross-connection control and methods used to prevent backflow of undesirable substances into water distribution and plumbing systems carrying potable water. Show less