ACFEI: Uniting forensics professionals with training, education & certification courses

The American College of Forensic Examiners Institute (ACFEI) is an independent, scientific, and professional association representing forensic examiners worldwide.

Multi-disciplinary in its scope, ACFEI actively promotes the dissemination of forensic information and the continued advancement of forensic examination and consultation across the many professional fields of membership. ACFEI has elevated standards through education, certification, basic and advanced training as well as Diplomate and Fellow status.

ACFEI serves as the national center for this purpose and circulates information and knowledge through the official journal - The Forensic Examiner, lectures, seminars, conferences, workshops, continuing education courses, and home study courses.

We believe Forensic Examiners do not 'win' or 'lose' cases. Forensic Examiners seek only the truth and conduct evaluations, examinations, and inquiries and report the true results of their findings in an unbiased and objective manner.

What is a Forensic Examiner?

The term "forensic examiner" refers to a professional who performs an orderly analysis, investigation, inquiry, test, inspection, or examination in an attempt to obtain the truth and form an expert* opinion. Almost every scientific and technical field has a forensic application. A forensic examination refers to that part of a professional's practice that is carried out to provide an expert* opinion.

*Note: Only a judge, under Rule 702, can qualify a professional as an "expert" in a given court case.

What is an ACFEI Diplomate?

The Diplomate distinction is a prestigious credential awarded by ACFEI that recognizes excellence and achievement and identifies professionals who strive for a higher level of competence. Not only does it establish the Diplomate as a distinguished top professional, it also encourages continuous professional development and promotes visibility in the field of forensic science.

Learn More about the Diplomate Distinction


What is an ACFEI Fellow?

The Fellow status is the highest honor ACFEI can bestow upon a member. Fellowship in ACFEI is an honorary distinction that represents the member's dedication to not only the association, but also to the field in which he or she practices. The Fellow status exemplifies the member’s high quality of knowledge, skill, education, training, and experience. Fellowship assures that the member has met the highest standards set forth by ACFEI.