A Day with a Detective

This isn't a lecture. You spend the day inside a working investigator's world — in a professional office and out running practical exercises — learning how a case actually moves from a phone call to an answer. Come with an open mind and a willingness to work; you'll leave with a real sense of whether this career is for you, and a head start if it is.

Download the full course (PDF)

What the day covers

• Locating people — the methods for finding someone who doesn't want to be found.
• Background checks — where the information lives and how to read it.
• Surveillance — positioning, patience, and clean documentation.
• Cold reading & interviewing — getting accurate information from people.
• Domestic investigations — handling sensitive cases with professionalism.
• Bug detection & counter-measures — an introduction to TSCM and how sweeps work.
• Spy & covert gear — hands-on time with the equipment of the trade.
• Where the law sits — how civil, domestic and criminal law shape what you can do.

Format & logistics

Sessions run as a full day or an evening course to fit your schedule, in controlled environments across the northern and southern Chicago suburbs. A short liability waiver is required before hands-on work. Lunch is provided.