View our Courses
Gain specialised expertise, forge industry contacts, and apply practical skills for an unparalleled learning experience in the world of investigation.
Certificate Courses
Gain the qualifications you need to become a licensed private investigator with our Certificate III and Certificate IV courses. All courses are online, with expert support every step of the way.
Short Courses
Learn Skip Tracing, Investigative Interviewing, Information Gathering skills and much through our online Short Courses at the Professional Investigators College of Australasia (PICA).
Training and Staff Development
At PICA, we offer more than just Certificate qualifications and Short Courses, we also provide tailored training solutions designed to meet the specific needs of your staff or team.
Welcome to PICA
The Professional Investigators College of Australasia (PICA) is Australasia’s only specific Training Organisation (RTO 40789) focusing on the training and development of investigators.
You’ll find many training organisations delivering security, management and related certificates, but at PICA, we’re specialists. That’s our difference.
The investigation industry these days is wide and varied. Investigators are common across all government sectors and throughout many private industries.
What Our Students Say About Us
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered 100% online. We also offer two Career Coaching Sessions to give you the opportunity to meet our Career Coaches and ask questions about the course and the industry. In addition, we host forums featuring industry experts, where you can engage and ask questions.
How long is the course?
The enrolment period for our accredited courses is 12 months. However, depending on your availability and prior experience, it is possible to complete the course in a shorter time frame. Extensions are available for $48 per month.
Can I complete the course faster?
Yes. Based on your availability and experience, you may be able to complete the course in less time than the 12-month enrolment period.
When does the course start/enrolment dates?
The course begins once your enrolment has been paid and completed through the student portal. This can happen on the same day and you can enrol any day of the year.
How do I enrol?
Click on the courses menu item and select the course you want to apply for. To get started, simply click the Apply Now button and follow the prompts to get started.
Where will this training offer employment opportunities?
View our FREE Careers eBook to learn about employment opportunities from the courses offered at PICA.
How many hours per week are required for study?
As little as 7 hours a week, including reading and completing at least six questions, could allow you to finish the course within 12 months. If you dedicate more time, you may complete a unit each week and finish in under 6 months.
How much do the courses cost?
Course prices vary depending on the program. Please visit the our course page to view our courses and their costs. We also offer different payment options which can be found at the bottom of each course page.
Are these qualifications nationally recognised?
Yes, the Certificate III and IV qualifications are nationally recognised.
Professional Investigators College of Australasia Pty Ltd is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) 40789 which is approved to deliver training and/or assessment.
Where is the Certificate III in Investigative Services accepted?
The Certificate III in Investigative Services delivered by PICA is a nationally recognised qualification and meets licensing requirements in most Australian states and territories. However, licensing conditions can vary, so it’s important to understand where the qualification is currently accepted:
QLD – YES
NSW – YES
SA – YES
WA – YES
TAS – YES (additional units may be required)
NT – Not required, but may be beneficial
VIC – NO (PICA has not sought endorsement by LRD in Victoria)
We recommend checking with the relevant state licensing authority for the most up-to-date information.
What is the RPL process?
RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) is an assessment of your previous formal and informal training and experience against the course requirements. It may allow you to gain your qualification faster. Your evidence is assessed based on ASQA’s rules of evidence.
If you think you’re eligible for RPL, contact us at rpl@pica.edu.au to request an RPL Pack.
How easy is it to find work once qualified and licensed?
Breaking into the industry can be challenging as most companies look for experience. Many hire investigators as independent contractors under subcontract arrangements.
Networking through professional associations (such as AIPI) and social media can help build connections and gain experience.
Regularly check job sites like seek.com.au by searching “investigator” to view current opportunities and job expectations.
Like most careers, persistence, determination, and initiative are key to landing a role. There is work out there, you just have to keep at it!
What’s the best way to get started and gain experience?
Start by networking. Connect with other investigators and consider approaching larger investigation firms.
As with any new industry, you’ll likely begin at entry-level roles. Be prepared to work for lower rates initially, but remember, your time is valuable, and you should not work for free.
Frequently
Asked Questions
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered 100% online. We also offer two Career Coaching Sessions to give you the opportunity to meet our Career Coaches and ask questions about the course and the industry. In addition, we host forums featuring industry experts, where you can engage and ask questions.
How long is the course?
The enrolment period for our accredited courses is 12 months. However, depending on your availability and prior experience, it is possible to complete the course in a shorter time frame. Extensions are available for $48 per month.
Can I complete the course faster?
Yes. Based on your availability and experience, you may be able to complete the course in less time than the 12-month enrolment period.
When does the course start/enrolment dates?
The course begins once your enrolment has been paid and completed through the student portal. This can happen on the same day and you can enrol any day of the year.
How do I enrol?
Click on the courses menu item and select the course you want to apply for. To get started, simply click the Apply Now button and follow the prompts to get started.
Where will this training offer employment opportunities?
View our FREE Careers eBook to learn about employment opportunities from the courses offered at PICA.
How many hours per week are required for study?
As little as 7 hours a week, including reading and completing at least six questions, could allow you to finish the course within 12 months. If you dedicate more time, you may complete a unit each week and finish in under 6 months.
How much do the courses cost?
Course prices vary depending on the program. Please visit the our course page to view our courses and their costs. We also offer different payment options which can be found at the bottom of each course page.
Are these qualifications nationally recognised?
Yes, the Certificate III and IV qualifications are nationally recognised.
Professional Investigators College of Australasia Pty Ltd is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) 40789 which is approved to deliver training and/or assessment.
Where is the Certificate III in Investigative Services accepted?
The Certificate III in Investigative Services delivered by PICA is a nationally recognised qualification and meets licensing requirements in most Australian states and territories. However, licensing conditions can vary, so it’s important to understand where the qualification is currently accepted:
QLD – YES
NSW – YES
SA – YES
WA – YES
TAS – YES (additional units may be required)
NT – Not required, but may be beneficial
VIC – NO (PICA has not sought endorsement by LRD in Victoria)
We recommend checking with the relevant state licensing authority for the most up-to-date information.
What is the RPL process?
RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) is an assessment of your previous formal and informal training and experience against the course requirements. It may allow you to gain your qualification faster. Your evidence is assessed based on ASQA’s rules of evidence.
If you think you’re eligible for RPL, contact us at rpl@pica.edu.au to request an RPL Pack.
How easy is it to find work once qualified and licensed?
Breaking into the industry can be challenging as most companies look for experience. Many hire investigators as independent contractors under subcontract arrangements.
Networking through professional associations (such as AIPI) and social media can help build connections and gain experience.
Regularly check job sites like seek.com.au by searching “investigator” to view current opportunities and job expectations.
Like most careers, persistence, determination, and initiative are key to landing a role. There is work out there, you just have to keep at it!
What’s the best way to get started and gain experience?
Start by networking. Connect with other investigators and consider approaching larger investigation firms.
As with any new industry, you’ll likely begin at entry-level roles. Be prepared to work for lower rates initially, but remember, your time is valuable, and you should not work for free.