Hostage Crisis Negotiations - Level I

This foundational course represents the first installment in a three-course progressive sequence offered by IPTM. It equips law enforcement professionals with the core competencies needed to function effectively as negotiators during hostage situations and crisis incidents involving individuals in psychological distress. Participants will develop practical skills in de-escalation tactics, engagement methodologies, and situation management to help resolve critical incidents peacefully.

The curriculum covers essential negotiation fundamentals including philosophy, team structure and roles, behavioral analysis, and tactical approaches to managing resistance and emotional volatility. Students will gain hands-on experience with equipment operation, intelligence collection and documentation, and stress management techniques. The course emphasizes practical application through scenario-based exercises conducted individually, in pairs, and as team simulations.

Course Topics

• Fundamentals of negotiation and negotiation philosophy
• Team roles, responsibilities, and organizational structure
• Negotiation techniques and behavioral profiling
• Initial response procedures and Negotiation Operations Center establishment
• Equipment, personnel resources, and operational setup
• Information gathering, analysis, and documentation protocols
• Stress management and psychological considerations
• Use of force decision-making and implications
• Comprehensive practical training exercises and scenario simulations

Duration: 40 hours

Eligibility: Participants must be sworn law enforcement officers, corrections personnel, hostage negotiators, patrol officers, military investigators, non-law enforcement members of crisis negotiation teams, mental health professionals, or clergy members providing support to law enforcement agencies. Other professional backgrounds require IPTM approval.

Note: This course does not qualify for Florida Department of Law Enforcement Salary Incentive Credit as a hostage negotiation course. However, it meets both Florida Department of Law Enforcement/CJSTC standards and applicable national standards.

Cost: $895.00

Location: Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (IPTM - University of North Florida)

Class Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Scheduled Sessions:

• November 30 - December 4, 2026 | Instructor: James McDonald
• April 19 - 23, 2027 | Instructor: James McDonald
• November 29 - December 3, 2027 | Instructor: James McDonald