I have completed an online study course with Education Direct and have recieved my certificate of completion in the field of private investigations. My only problem is that I cannot work on my own without many years of futher training or internship, and there are very few in this field in the state of Michigan. In the study guides, it said there was manythings I could use my this education for, such as crime scene photographer, arson investigator and many other jobs in law enforcement without being an actual police officer. However, after much looking online and even going to the local police departments, no one seems to know where to go or who to talk to to start in these jobs. Any information you could give me would be helpful. I live in Muskegon,, MI, and would prefer to remain in the general vicinity.
I am in the same situation (here in San Francisco). I completed an online study course (graduated with Highest Honors, too) and like you, I cannot afford to due a lenghty internship on little to no pay until I can take the state exam for my license. You might want to check with various attorneys….they may, from time to time, need the assistance of a fledgling PI for some of their cases. If you could align yourself with a few of them, that could not only get your foot in the door, but get your field experience and other contacts, as well. Good luck and best wishes….I hope you reach that dream!!!!
Call some lawyers that handle divorces, they often need PI’s. Ask who they use. If there’s no one around your area, that’s good. Call the people they use and talk about opening a branch office. You’d have the best of both worlds, working on your own with established offices giving you guidance and business.