-
Week 4: The Role of Fingerprint Examiners in Identification and Crime Scene Investigations
7 Lessons
Online Training: Introduction to Fingerprint Patterns
Learn about the Basic Fingerprint Patterns: Loops, Arches, and Whorls
Course Summary
Training Starts When You Enroll
The most valuable evidence that an investigator can obtain from the crime scene is the fingerprints of the suspect. Fingerprints have been established and accepted as infallible means of personal identification and it has been this way for centuries. In fact, fingerprints are the only positive identification that is used throughout the world.
This online course teaches the basics of the 3 types of fingerprint patterns--L.A.W--loops, arches, and whorls. These patterns are the foundation and cornerstone of personal identification.
Unlock the secrets of fingerprint identification and embark on an exciting career in forensic science. Our Introduction to Fingerprint Identification online course is designed for aspiring fingerprint examiners and crime scene investigators. By taking this course, you'll gain access to cutting-edge techniques, expert insights, and practical exercises that will put you on the fast track to success.
Working knowledge of fingerprint basics prepares the student for a fingerprint position in a law enforcement agency or forensic agency.
Course includes:
instructor-led live lectures
hands-on training
practical exercises
PDFs worksheets
case studies
certificate of completion
This 4 week, self-paced lecture class is designed to introduce the student to the classification of fingerprints. It will provide the student with the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to classify fingerprints.
Perfect for:
students with limited basic fingerprint experience and knowledge
law enforcement professionals looking to pivot to a forensic position
criminal justice students
pre-law students
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will:
Recall the history of fingerprints
Classification Systems
Describe the basic concepts of ink-to-ink comparison and identification
Demonstrated ability to take legible fingerprint standards
Course Curriculum
Course Instructors
Instructor: Katrina Frink, MSFS
Forensic Print Specialist III
Online Instructor
Katrina is a crime scene investigator for a large law enforcement agency. She responds to crime scenes and analyzes evidence in a laboratory setting. She holds professional membership in The International Association of Identification and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.
Co-Instructor: Terri Armenta, MSFS
Director of Forensic Training Unlimited
Adjunct Professor
Terri is an academic professor at several universities and colleges. Her expertise in forensic science methods and criminal justice concepts has led to her being recognized as an academic professional teaching courses in forensic science, criminalistics, and criminal justice.
Forensic Training Unlimited
Train Like a CSI. Get Job-Ready Skills.
At Forensic Training Unlimited, we don’t just lecture—we coach you through real forensic workflows so you can step into the field with confidence.
Career Tracks
Crime Scene Investigation – scene processing, documentation, photography, sketching, evidence collection & packaging.
Fingerprint Identification & Classification – latent development and lifting, pattern analysis, ACE-V fundamentals.
Death Investigation – scene approach, cause vs. manner, postmortem changes, documentation, and reporting.
Forensic Career Marketing – résumé and portfolio building, interview prep, LinkedIn optimization, job-hunt strategy.
What You’ll Gain
Practical, hands-on training and instructor feedback
Field-ready checklists, templates, and practice files
A portfolio of work you can show employers
Proof of completion (certificate) and next-step guidance
Who It’s For
Aspiring CSIs, recent graduates, and career-pivoting adults who want real skills, real practice, and a clear path from student to forensic professional.
Ready to take the next step? Browse upcoming courses or join the interest list to be first in line when seats open.
The course content was well-structured and easy to follow, with comprehensive modules covering all aspects of fingerprint identification. The instructors were knowledgeable and provided regular feedback and support throughout the course. I particularly enjoyed the interactive nature of the course, which included practical exercises and case studies to reinforce learning. Overall, I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in the fascinating world of fingerprint identification.
The course content was well-structured and easy to follow, with comprehensive modules covering all aspects of fingerprint identification. The instructors were knowledgeable and provided regular feedback and support throughout the course. I particularly enjoyed the interactive nature of the course, which included practical exercises and case studies to reinforce learning. Overall, I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in the fascinating world of fingerprint identification.
Course Pricing
Online Training: Introduction to Fingerprint Patte
$149 USD
-
- Hands-on Training
- Expert Training
- Certificate of Completion
- Live Presentations
- Recorded Presentations
- PDFs
