TBI Criminal Justice Forensic Academy

(College Students Only)

The Tennessee Bureau Investigation (TBI) Criminal Justice Forensic Academy, which is administered by the TBI Training and TBI Forensic Services Divisions, is a valuable learning experience for college and university students interested in criminal investigations and/or forensic science. Selected applicants will gain invaluable learning
experience in both disciplines that will allow them to correlate their classroom studies with career related experiences from the Academy.

To learn more, watch the video above.

To apply, fill out the form at the bottom of this page.

The Tennessee Bureau Investigation 2026 Criminal Justice Forensic Academy

The Tennessee Bureau Investigation (TBI) Criminal Justice Forensic Academy (CJFA), which is administered by the TBI Training and TBI Forensic Services Divisions, is a valuable learning experience for college and university students interested in criminal investigations and/or forensic science. Selected applicants will gain invaluable learning experience in both disciplines that will allow them to correlate their classroom studies with career-related experiences from the
Academy.

*** This is an introductory experience and not intended for candidates with extensive law enforcement or forensic experience. ***

The Criminal Justice Forensic Academy will be held at the Tennessee Fire Services and Codes Enforcement Academy (TFACA) located at 2161 Unionville Deason Rd, Bell Buckle, TN 37020. This Academy is residential and selected candidates will be required to stay full time at TFACA. Lodging and meals will be provided.

*** Efforts will be made to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions within reason and capability of the food vendor. ***

2026 CJFA Timetable

Academy will be held from June 8 - 12, 2026

·      Application Period: January 7 - February 20, 2026 

·      Virtual Interviews: March 16 - March 27, 2026

·      Notifications of Selected Candidates: April 10, 2026

·      Virtual Orientation: May 1, 2026

·      Academy Orientation: June 7, 2026

·      Academy Ends: June 12, 2026

Qualifications and Eligibility Requirements   

• Must be enrolled in college/university as a rising sophomore, junior or senior
  status in their college/university coursework at the time of application.
• Candidates must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 and submit a full academic transcript.
• One letter of recommendation from a college or university faculty member.
• One maximum 500-word essay on why the applicant wants to attend the Criminal Justice Forensic Academy and how the Academy fits in their overall career plans.
• If selected, be prepared to successfully pass a routine background check.

*** Transportation to TFACA on Sunday June 7th, transportation to TBI HQ on June 12th for graduation and
transportation home on June 12th after graduation is the responsibility of the student. All other travel during the Academy will be provided by the Training Division of TBI. ***