Polygraph Examiner Course

A polygraph examiner course is designed to teach the basic skills of administering and interpreting the results of a polygraph test. The course focuses on the components of a polygraph, its application and its proper administration. Students learn the legal and ethical implications of administering polygraph tests, as well as the scientific foundation of the technique. Upon completion of the course, students should be able to recognize and interpret the physical responses of the person being tested and be able to form conclusions about the honesty or deception of the person being tested. The course is typically divided into components, such as history of the polygraph, physiology and anatomy of the body that are affected, psychology of the questionnaire technique, and the instrumentation of the polygraph, including proper usage and troubleshooting of the machine. Students complete a series of practical exercises and tests to learn the techniques necessary to effectively use a polygraph and analyze the results. Participants are expected to demonstrate high standards of accuracy and ethical judgement in carrying out the polygraph. Upon successful completion of a polygraph examiner course, participants may be eligible to receive a certificate of completion and possibly become certified as a polygraph examiner. Certification exams are conducted by the American Polygraph Association, which sets high standards and stringent criteria for accreditation. Certification will allow the holder to use their knowledge to carry out examinations in a professional practice.