Top 10 Human Intelligence Collector Certifications

Certifications are important to a human intelligence collector because they demonstrate an individual's competency and knowledge in intelligence gathering. Certification shows that the individual has completed training and has been tested on their knowledge of the intelligence field. This can help distinguish one candidate from another, especially in a competitive job market. Having certifications also proves to employers that the individual is committed to their profession and is taking steps to stay informed about the latest developments in their field. Additionally, certifications can provide access to higher-level positions or promotions within organizations.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Human Intelligence Collectors and explain how they can help to advance a human intelligence collector's career.

What are Human Intelligence Collector Certifications?

Human Intelligence Collector (HIC) Certification is a formal recognition of an individual’s ability to effectively and ethically collect, analyze, and disseminate accurate and timely intelligence information. This certification is offered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through its HIC Program. HIC certification helps to ensure that those who are responsible for collecting and analyzing intelligence information are doing so in a professional manner that meets high standards. With this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to ethical conduct, proficiency in critical thinking skills, and knowledge of the latest developments in intelligence gathering techniques.

HIC Certification can be beneficial to both public and private sectors as it allows organizations to identify qualified personnel who have received formal training in the areas of intelligence gathering and analysis. Additionally, the certification provides assurance that those individuals have met stringent criteria set forth by the FBI regarding ethical conduct, technical proficiency, and professional practices. This can help organizations ensure that they are hiring personnel who possess the necessary skills required for effective collection and analysis of intelligence information. Furthermore, having personnel with HIC Certification can also help organizations meet certain government requirements such as those related to security clearance or other sensitive applications.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the Human Intelligence Collector (HIC) certification process thoroughly before beginning the application. Ensure that you meet all requirements and have the necessary qualifications, as this will help to ensure a smoother process and increase your chances of success.

Related: What does a Human Intelligence Collector do?

Top 10 Human Intelligence Collector Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Human Intelligence Collectors today.

1. Certified Professional Intelligence Analyst (CPIA)

Certified Professional Intelligence Analyst (CPIA) is an internationally recognized certification that provides an individual with the knowledge and skills required to be a successful intelligence analyst. CPIA is offered by the International Association of Certified Professional Intelligence Analysts (IACPA), which was founded in 2008 as a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in intelligence analysis.

The CPIA certification program consists of three courses: Introduction to Intelligence Analysis, Applied Intelligence Analysis, and Advanced Intelligence Analysis. Each course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and techniques used in intelligence analysis. The courses are designed for professionals from all sectors, including law enforcement, military, government, corporate security, and private sector organizations.

It typically takes about six months to complete the three courses necessary for certification. Students must pass all three exams with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their CPIA certification.

In order to obtain the CPIA certification, individuals must first register for the program through IACPA's website. Registration fees vary depending on the country where you reside; however, they range from $295-$495 USD per course. Once registered, individuals can access course materials online and take exams at their own pace.

Upon successful completion of all three exams, applicants will receive their CPIA certificate and will be eligible for membership in IACPA's professional network of certified analysts. This network provides access to job postings and other resources related to intelligence analysis careers.

2. Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP)

Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize professionals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, deploy, and manage business intelligence solutions.

The CBIP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their expertise in areas such as data analysis, data modeling, data warehousing, reporting and analytics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as business intelligence principles and practices; data management; systems architecture; project management; analytics and decision support; information security; and more.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CBIP exam. Candidates should plan on spending at least 20 hours per week studying for the exam. Preparation materials can be found online or through the IIBA website.

The cost of the CBIP certification varies depending on where you take the exam. The IIBA charges $495 for members and $595 for non-members. Other organizations may have different fees associated with taking the exam.

3. Certified Human Intelligence Collector (CHIC)

Certified Human Intelligence Collector (CHIC) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Counterterrorism and Security Professionals (IACSP). The CHIC certification program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively collect intelligence from human sources.

The CHIC certification program consists of five courses that cover topics such as interviewing techniques, surveillance operations, source development and management, information gathering and analysis, and counterintelligence operations. The courses are offered online or in-person at various locations around the world.

The cost for the CHIC certification program varies depending on the course format chosen. The cost for an online course is $1,500 USD and an in-person course is $2,000 USD. The total time required to complete all five courses is approximately 200 hours.

To become certified as a CHIC professional, applicants must successfully pass all five courses within two years of enrolling in the program. Upon successful completion of all five courses, applicants will receive their official IACSP CHIC Certification Certificate.

4. Certified Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence Officer (CCHIO)

Certified Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence Officer (CCHIO) is a certification program offered by the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively conduct counterintelligence and human intelligence operations. The CCHIO certification is valid for five years, after which time it must be renewed.

The CCHIO certification requires applicants to complete a two-day course, pass an exam, and submit a portfolio of their work. The course covers topics such as counterintelligence fundamentals, intelligence collection methods, source development, counterintelligence analysis, and countermeasures. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the material covered in the course. Once they have passed the exam, applicants must submit a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

The cost of obtaining the CCHIO certification varies depending on location and provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500 to $2,500 USD.

5. Certified Counterintelligence and HUMINT Analyst (CCHA)

Certified Counterintelligence and HUMINT Analyst (CCHA) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of professionals in the field of counterintelligence and human intelligence (HUMINT). This certification is offered by the International Association of Counterintelligence Professionals (IACP).

The CCHA certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of professional experience in counterintelligence or HUMINT. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as counterintelligence operations, HUMINT collection, source targeting, analysis techniques, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes about four hours to complete.

To get CCHA certified, applicants must first submit an application to IACP. Applications are reviewed for eligibility requirements before being accepted. Once accepted, applicants will be required to pay a fee for the exam and any additional fees associated with the certification process. The cost for the CCHA certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of IACP; members receive discounted rates. After payment is received, applicants can schedule their exam at a testing center near them.

Once the exam is completed successfully, applicants will receive their CCHA certification within two weeks. This certificate is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed. Renewal requires passing an updated version of the CCHA exam or completing continuing education credits in order to maintain your certification status.

6. Certified Human Intelligence Operations Manager (CHIOM)

Certified Human Intelligence Operations Manager (CHIOM) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Professional Security and Intelligence Officers (IAPSO). CHIOM is designed to provide security professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage, plan, and execute human intelligence operations. The program provides training in areas such as intelligence collection, analysis, and reporting; counterintelligence; and counterterrorism.

The CHIOM program consists of three levels: Certified Associate Human Intelligence Operations Manager (CAHIOM), Certified Professional Human Intelligence Operations Manager (CPHIOM), and Certified Master Human Intelligence Operations Manager (CMHIOM). Each level requires successful completion of an exam as well as a minimum number of years of experience in the field.

The CAHIOM exam can be taken online or in-person at one of IAPSO’s testing centers. It takes approximately two hours to complete the exam. After passing the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in human intelligence operations before they can apply for CPHIOM certification. The CPHIOM exam is also available online or in-person at one of IAPSO’s testing centers and takes approximately four hours to complete. Once applicants have passed both exams, they are eligible for CMHIOM certification which requires five years of experience in human intelligence operations management.

The cost for taking each exam varies depending on whether it is taken online or in-person. The CAHIOM exam costs $150 for members ($175 for non-members) if taken online, or $200 for members ($225 for non-members) if taken in-person. The CPHIOM exam costs $250 for members ($275 for non-members) if taken online, or $300 for members ($325 for non-members) if taken in-person. There is no fee associated with taking the CMHIOM exam.

7. Certified Human Intelligence Collection Technician (CHICT)

Certified Human Intelligence Collection Technician (CHICT) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts (IALEIA). This certification is designed to provide professional recognition for those individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of intelligence collection.

The CHICT certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as intelligence collection techniques, legal considerations, and ethical issues. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of two hours. In order to be eligible for the CHICT certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in law enforcement intelligence analysis or related fields.

The cost of the CHICT certification is $295 USD plus any applicable taxes. This fee includes access to study materials, the online exam, and one year of membership in IALEIA.

Once an applicant has passed the online exam, they will receive their CHICT certificate within four weeks. The certificate is valid for two years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by taking an additional online exam every two years.

8. Certified Human Source Interrogator (CHSI)

Certified Human Source Interrogator (CHSI) is a certification program designed to provide the highest standards of professional interrogations. It is offered by the International Association of Professional Interrogators (IAPI). The CHSI certification program is designed to ensure that those who are certified have the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct effective interrogations.

The CHSI certification program consists of a two-day course, which includes lectures, role-playing exercises, and practice interrogations. The course covers topics such as: interviewing techniques, psychological principles of interrogation, legal considerations in interrogation, and ethical issues related to interrogation. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive a certificate from IAPI indicating their status as Certified Human Source Interrogator (CHSI).

To get certified as a CHSI, applicants must first register for the two-day course with IAPI. The cost of the course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. After registering for the course, applicants must complete all required material before taking the final exam and receiving their certification.

Once certified as a CHSI, individuals can use their credential to demonstrate their expertise in conducting professional interrogations. This credential can be used for employment opportunities or other professional advancement opportunities in law enforcement or intelligence agencies.

9. Certified HUMINT Collection Manager (CHCM)

Certified HUMINT Collection Manager (CHCM) is a certification program offered by the United States Department of Defense. It is designed to provide personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and coordinate Human Intelligence (HUMINT) collection operations. The certification is valid for three years and requires successful completion of both an online course and a practical application assessment.

The CHCM course is broken down into four modules: HUMINT Collection, HUMINT Reporting, HUMINT Analysis, and HUMINT Management. Each module consists of lectures, readings, and quizzes that cover topics such as source validation, asset development, counterintelligence operations, intelligence analysis techniques, report writing, and HUMINT management principles. Upon successful completion of the coursework, students must pass a final assessment in order to be awarded their certification.

In order to receive the CHCM certification, individuals must first register for the program through the Defense Acquisition University website. After registering for the program, individuals will have access to all course materials and assessments required for certification. The cost of registration varies depending on whether or not an individual is eligible for military tuition assistance or other discounts; however, it typically ranges from $500-$800 USD.

Once registered for the program, individuals can expect to complete it within two months if they are able to dedicate sufficient time each week to studying and completing assignments. Upon successful completion of all requirements within two months’ time frame, individuals will receive their CHCM certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks after passing their final assessment.

10. Certified HUMINT Targeting Officer (CHTO).

A Certified HUMINT Targeting Officer (CHTO) is a professional designation granted by the United States Department of Defense. The CHTO certification is intended to provide a standardized qualification for personnel who plan and execute Human Intelligence (HUMINT) operations. It is designed to ensure that HUMINT personnel have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively target and collect intelligence from human sources.

The CHTO certification process includes a written examination and an oral board interview. In order to be eligible for the CHTO certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in HUMINT operations or related fields. Applicants must also possess a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).

The CHTO certification process typically takes four months or more to complete. The cost of the certification varies depending on the applicant's background and experience. Generally, applicants can expect to pay between $2,000-$5,000 for the entire process.

Once certified, CHTOs are expected to maintain their qualifications through continuing education courses and periodic re-certification exams.

Do You Really Need a Human Intelligence Collector Certificate?

The short answer is no. A Human Intelligence Collector Certificate is not required to work as a human intelligence collector. However, it can be beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career in the field of human intelligence collection. The certificate provides an introduction to the principles and techniques used in this specialized field, and demonstrates an understanding of the ethical considerations involved. It also serves as a credential that may increase one's chances of being hired or promoted within the profession.

Ultimately, whether or not to pursue a Human Intelligence Collector Certificate will depend on one's individual goals and interests. A certificate would be most beneficial for those who wish to work in the field of human intelligence collection and are looking to gain an edge over their competition when applying for jobs or promotions. For those who are already established in the field, however, a certificate may not provide much additional benefit since they have likely already acquired many of the skills necessary for success in this line of work.

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FAQs About Human Intelligence Collector Certifications

1. What is the Human Intelligence Collector certification?

Answer: The Human Intelligence Collector certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual's ability to collect, analyze, and report intelligence information. It is awarded by the United States Army Intelligence Center of Excellence (USAICoE).

2. How do I obtain a Human Intelligence Collector certification?

Answer: To obtain a Human Intelligence Collector certification, you must complete the USAICoE's Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training courses. Additionally, you must pass an examination to receive your certification.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Human Intelligence Collector?

Answer: The exact timeline for obtaining a Human Intelligence Collector certification depends on several factors, including the individual's experience level and the type of course they choose to take. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year or more to complete all requirements for certification.

4. What are the benefits of being certified as a Human Intelligence Collector?

Answer: Being certified as a Human Intelligence Collector can open up new opportunities in both the military and civilian sectors. Having this certification will demonstrate your knowledge and skills in intelligence gathering and analysis which could lead to promotions or higher paying jobs in these fields.

5. Is there an online version of the Human Intelligence Collector Certification exam?

Answer: Yes, there is an online version of the USAICoE's Human Intelligence Collector Certification exam available through their website. You will need to create an account before taking the exam and ensure that you have access to reliable internet connection during its duration.