Instructor Certification Program

Instructor Certification Program

 

The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) offers the Instructor Certification Program (ICP) to recognize and prepare individuals to teach criminal justice courses effectively. This program ensures instructors meet high standards aligned with WSCJTC's mission and values.

What We Do

Through experience, feedback, and coaching, ICP develops skilled instructors who meet rigorous certification standards. Program Managers evaluate and certify instructors based on their preparedness, knowledge, presentation skills, and ability to engage with students.

Certification Tiers

The program uses a tiered certification system based on the instructor's role, qualifications, and training:

  • Tier 1: Certified for guest instruction, course facilitation, or mock training. Requires completion of the WSCJTC 1-hour online Instructor Development course.
  • Tier 2: Certified to teach specific courses or blocks. The 40-hour Instructor Development course or a waiver for equivalent experience or training is required.
  • Tier 3: Certified to teach multiple courses or assist in instructional development. The 40-hour Instructor Development course or a
  • waiver for equivalent experience or training is required.
  • Tier 4: Certified to teach multiple programs and assist in curriculum development. Requires approval from senior leadership and completion of the 40-hour Instructor Development course or a waiver.

 

Examples of Certified Roles by Tier:

  • Tier 1: Mock Scene Rater, Guest Instructor
  • Tier 2: Primary Instructor, Program Specialist
  • Tier 3: Lead Instructor, Subject Matter Expert
  • Tier 4: Advanced Education Subject Matter Expert, Multiple Discipline Subject Matter Expert

 

How to Apply

To become a certified instructor:

  1. Contact the Program Manager for the program you wish to teach.
  2. Apply and provide the required documents.
  3. Complete an apprenticeship and evaluation.
  4. Receive certification upon approval.

 

Contact Program Managers

 

Program Managers oversee various training programs. Connect with the manager specializing in your area of interest to learn more:

  • Leadership Training: Leanna Bidinger
  • Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act (LETCSA): Alex Buijs
  • Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Statewide: Bob Graham
  • [Additional program managers listed in full on the website]

 

About WSCJTC

Established in 1974, WSCJTC sets certification and training standards for public safety professionals in Washington. We equip law enforcement and corrections officers with the skills and knowledge to protect the communities they serve.