By Robbie Gould | 08/31/2026
Criminal behavioral analysts, also referred to as criminal investigative analysts, play a major role in solving crimes and upholding justice. They are integral members of the criminal justice system and indispensable resources to law enforcement organizations.
What Is a Criminal Behavioral Analyst?
Criminal behavioral analysts study the inner workings of criminals’ minds and work with detectives to shine a light on lawbreakers’ motives. They use investigation techniques rooted in forensic psychology to evaluate human behavior and offenders’ thought processes.
Criminal Behavioral Analyst vs. Criminal Profiler: Key Differences
Some people often confuse criminal behavioral analysts with criminal profilers. However, these two professions are different.
Criminal behavioral analysts are concerned with the broad field of criminal behavioral analysis. After a crime is committed, their work applies to the entire case from the initial investigation to testimony in a courtroom.
Criminal behavioral analysts also interpret crime scene evidence to understand how and why criminals make the choices they do. These trained professionals apply detailed analyses to help define the probable characteristics, intentions, and psychological makeup of offenders.
By contrast, criminal profilers are more concerned with a specific criminal and that criminal’s characteristics to create a profile of a likely suspect. They use evidence from the crime scene, investigate a criminal’s method of committing a crime (modus operandi), and refer to past cases to aid law enforcement in finding that suspect.
Steps to Become a Criminal Behavioral Analyst
Becoming a criminal behavioral analyst involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. There are several steps typically involved in pursuing this career path.
1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field
Common fields of study include criminal justice or psychology. A bachelor’s degree provides a broad foundation regarding how criminals behave, as well as the criminal justice system, crime analysis, and basic forensic principles.
It can also be helpful to pursue certificates in a related area, such as an undergraduate certificate in cybercrime essentials or a graduate certificate in digital forensics. Learning a foreign language such as Spanish can also be beneficial.
2. Pursue an Advanced Education
Consider obtaining a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Advanced degrees offer specialized knowledge and opportunities to develop research methods in areas directly related to criminal behavior analysis.
3. Gain Relevant Experience
Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, or entry-level positions in areas related to criminal justice or behavioral analysis. Working with law enforcement agencies, rehabilitation centers, juvenile detention centers, or legal firms can provide valuable hands-on experience and professional connections.
While you’re gaining experience, you’re also developing important skills needed to become a criminal profiler and building your professional network of contacts in the criminal justice field.
4. Obtain Certifications
Though certifications are not mandatory, passing a certified behavior analysis exam could help a criminal behavioral analyst to stand out from peers and demonstrate dedication to maintaining high standards of ethical conduct.
A popular option is the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®), which is provided by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
“Criminal behavioral analysts typically receive valuable training as they earn certifications. That’s important because certifications reflect that someone has the knowledge and expertise to testify in court and to provide value in criminal investigations.”
Dr. Jarrod Sadulski
Criminal Justice Faculty Member
5. Apply for Jobs
Look for positions with law enforcement agencies, forensic units, government agencies, or private security firms. You may also choose to work as a consultant or pursue roles in academia and research. Requirements vary by private employer or government agency, so research eligibility criteria carefully before applying.
How to Get into the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit
Becoming an employee in the FBI’s Behavior Analysis Unit (BAU) is a long process. You must meet basic FBI eligibility requirements, go through the hiring process to become a Special Agent or Intelligence Analyst, and submit the necessary application documents.
Also, you’ll be expected to possess a graduate degree and build several years of real-world experience as a criminal investigator. When a job opportunity in the BAU occurs, you’ll need to undergo a specialized application process to prove you have the right skills to be effective in this type of job.
How Military and Law Enforcement Experience Can Support Your Career Path
If you seek to become a criminal behavioral analyst, prior military service or law enforcement experience can be an asset. According to Dr. Sadulski, employers often value veterans and law enforcement officers because those people are team players, natural leaders, and good communicators. In addition, they possess maturity, are accustomed to high levels of stress, and are dedicated to ensuring a job is completed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Criminal Behavioral Analyst
What degree do you need to become a criminal behavioral analyst?
Typically, aspiring criminal behavioral analysts start with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or psychology. Many individuals then pursue a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field, as the knowledge and skills from an advanced degree are often needed to qualify for these roles. Specific requirements vary by employer and agency.
How long does it take to become a criminal behavioral analyst?
A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete, and a master’s degree typically takes an additional two years. Many employers may also require several years of professional law enforcement or military experience.
Depending upon the employer, a background check or security clearance may also be required. Total timelines vary based on individual educational paths and employer requirements.
Is a criminal behavioral analyst the same as a criminal profiler?
No, a criminal behavioral analyst is not the same as a criminal profiler. Criminal behavioral analysts work across an entire case from initial investigation to courtroom testimony, studying the psychology and behavior of criminals broadly. Criminal profilers focus more narrowly on building a profile of a specific suspect based on crime scene evidence and modus operandi.
Can you become a criminal behavioral analyst without becoming a police officer?
Yes, it is possible to become a criminal behavioral analyst without a police officer background. However, the investigative skills and real-world experience gained from working in law enforcement or serving in the military can be helpful for aspiring criminal behavioral analysts. Requirements vary by employer and agency.
How hard is it to get into the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit?
Getting into the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) is a long, competitive process. Candidates must first meet the FBI’s basic eligibility requirements, apply to become a Special Agent or Intelligence Analyst, and complete an 800-hour basic field training course at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
A graduate degree and several years of relevant investigative experience are typically required before a candidate may be eligible for the BAU. Current requirements are set by the FBI and subject to change; see fbijobs.gov for official guidance.
Do you need a certification to become a criminal behavioral analyst?
There is no single universal certification required to become a criminal behavioral analyst. However, many professionals choose to pursue the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), offered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, to demonstrate advanced knowledge and commitment to the field. Certification requirements and their value vary by employer.
What skills do criminal behavioral analysts need?
Criminal behavioral analysts need strong analytical and critical thinking skills to study criminal behavior and identify patterns. Effective communication is essential, as they often work in teams and may testify in court.
Emotional resilience is important given the graphic nature of some crime scenes. They should also be tech-savvy and familiar with forensic analysis software and case management systems. Also, they’ll need to possess a keen eye for detail, maintain objectivity, and have strong problem-solving abilities.
Start Your Criminal Behavioral Analyst Career Path with APU
Criminal behavioral analysts make valuable contributions to every local law enforcement agency and to the criminal justice system. Their work helps ensure a safer, more informed society.
Aspiring criminal behavioral analysts may wish to pursue an online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from American Public University (APU). For this degree program, students can enroll in courses such as U.S. law enforcement, criminal investigation, research design and methods, and constitutional law. Other courses include the criminal legal process, criminal law, and corrections and incarceration.
This degree program has four concentrations so that students may tailor their education to meet their professional goals. These concentrations include General, Entrepreneurship, Maritime Law Enforcement, and Organizational Law Enforcement Leadership.
For more information, visit APU’s security and global studies degree program page.
Note: The potential careers listed in this article are for informational purposes only. Additional education, experience, and professional licensure may be needed to obtain employment in this field, beyond what is provided by criminal justice programs at the University.
Board-Certified Behavior Analyst® is a registered trademark of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Profiling General Knowledge Exam® is a registered trademark of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists.
Robbie Gould is a staff writer for American Public University with a knack for creating compelling and effective content across multiple platforms. He holds a B.A. in English Studies and a minor in Marketing from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, as well as an MFA in cinematography and film production from the New York Film Academy.
Robbie combines his passion for storytelling with a strong foundation in SEO and digital marketing. His expertise in crafting data-driven content has helped elevate brand identities and engage audiences, driving significant improvements in key performance metrics. He is currently pursuing an MBA at Boston University.