Since 2016, NCPI has administered the Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute (VSI) Certification Program, in partnership with the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association, the Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute, and the
L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Virginia Commonwealth University.
A voluntary credential program that recognizes the continued individual professional development of Virginia sheriffs and deputies, achieving VSI Certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, and contributes to the advancement of public safety as a profession.
About Virginia Sheriffs’ Institute Certification
The VSI Certification program was created to recognize the continued individual professional development that Virginia’s sheriffs and deputies undertake each day to make their communities safer.
VSI Certification demonstrates to fellow law enforcement personnel and the community that a sheriff or deputy has continued to work on learning new skills, attending additional training, or furthering their education above and beyond the core requirements of their position.
Sheriffs and deputies who achieve certification are awarded a certificate by the Performance Management Group at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. They are also recognized at the annual VSI conference and may use the designation “VSIC” professionally.
Application Information
Any sheriff or deputy wishing to apply for certification or recertification must submit an application and supporting documentation for review by the VSI Certification Committee which is comprised of a diverse group of Virginia sheriffs appointed by the VSI Board of Directors.
Applicants must have a designated minimum total of points in four categories for initial certification:
- Public Safety Experience
- Education
- Training
- Professional Development
For recertification, applicants must have a designated minimum total of points in Public Safety Experience, Training and Professional Development.
NCPI’s role administering the program
NCPI receives and processes all applications for certification or recertification, corresponds with applicants to answer questions and obtain all required documentation, and maintains the Program records.
NCPI assists the VSI Certification Committee in reviewing all applications, to ensure applicants represent the best public safety practices as outlined in the program guide.