How to Be a Handwriting Expert

Become a handwriting expert to work in fields such as forensic science or psychology.

Handwriting experts require experience and training in one of several fields. Graphologists, also known as forensic handwriting examiners, require more training than questioned document examiners, who look at suspected instances of forgery and analyze signatures for fraud. Both occupations can lead to work in the forensics, human resources, psychology or legal fields.

Instructions

1. Enroll in courses to study handwriting. Correspondence courses are your primary option since the only three accredited institutions in the world for obtaining a degree in handwriting analysis are in Italy, Spain and Argentina. Brick-and-mortar schools that offer courses in graphology are located in the United Kingdom and Germany. Consider and research professional schools such as the International School of Handwriting Sciences (ISHS) or the International Graphoanalysis Society (IGAS). These courses usually take about 18 months.

2. Decide the exact type of handwriting expert you would like to become to determine the training you need. Handwriting experts can work in the field of psychology, analyzing a subject's penmanship for positive and negative personality traits. Only a questioned document examiner can give testimony in court cases, and this occupation usually requires a bachelor's degree in forensics or criminal justice.

3. Consider interning with a certified document examiner or graphologist. Look for handwriting experts in your region and contact them for internship opportunities. Attend mock trials or actual court cases to see handwriting experts at work, or contact graphologists who analyze the handwriting of those in business or psychology settings to see them at work. Ask them for tips and advice during your observation period.

4. Join a professional organization such as the American Society of Questioned Document Examiners. In addition to offering coursework to keep you updated on the latest developments in your field, you'll also have networking opportunities.

References

• ViewZone: Your Handwriting - What Does It Tell About You?
• Handwriting-L: Handwriting Schools

Resources

• Handwriting Research Corporation