Detective Training in Germany

The lack of a state-regulated and licensed training program for detectives is not only a German but also an international issue. In nearly all Western countries, the practice of private investigation is not tied to any official qualification. The consequence is obvious: unreliable providers flood the market, while the number of qualified professionals remains low. In the past, this shortfall was partly compensated by the old guard—trained criminologists from police services, particularly from the former GDR—who, after leaving public service, became self-employed. However, since the abolition of criminology degree programs in Germany, not only have public authorities lost investigative expertise, but qualified new talent in the detective profession has also become exceedingly rare.

 

To counter this trend, several private institutions have attempted to establish detective training programs. Many soon reoriented themselves, but those whose curricula meet the standards of the IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce) have survived to this day. Chief among them are ZAD (distance learning) and SAB (full-time instruction in Berlin). However, detective training remains expensive, which drives many prospective students to seek employment during their studies. While detective agencies may appear to be ideal employers, employing an untrained investigator bound to class schedules is difficult for any serious agency. Skills and experience must first be gained, and the profession requires complete time flexibility and constant readiness. For these reasons, Kurtz Detective Agency Leipzig cannot employ trainee detectives.

 

A few German agencies—whose names we will not mention—advertise positions for beginners, even promising to cover the full cost of detective training. Yet the financial risk involved is so substantial that such offers appear highly questionable. Out of concern for aspiring investigators, Kurtz Detective Agency Leipzig has anonymously investigated these claims and found that all inquiries remained unanswered. Further follow-ups revealed that these offers existed only on paper. We therefore strongly warn all interested parties not to be misled by such promises.

 

However, if you are a successful IHK graduate, we are pleased to offer entry-level employment opportunities—initially on a short leash, of course. Upon proven aptitude, a long-term cooperation with expanded responsibilities can naturally be discussed.

 

If you wish to gain insight into the daily life of a detective and evaluate whether the financial and time investment of IHK-certified training is worthwhile for you, we recommend reading the Schnüfflerfibel by our esteemed colleague Schrauwers, one of Patrick Kurtz’s own instructors.

 

We kindly ask you not to request personal consultation on detective training matters. Patrick Kurtz is happy to provide brief advice or tips but cannot offer comprehensive guidance due to time constraints.

 

Nevertheless, we hope for an increase in the number of qualified professionals and look forward to seeing the sometimes tarnished image of German detectives gradually shine in a better light once again.