Careers in Corrections

Those interested in a career in corrections may pursue a related degree, this is not, however, necessary. Often a vocational certificate suffices. Corrections refer to a system that involves overseeing detainees including those awaiting trial, those convicted and those sentenced. Their responsibilities include maintaining law and order within pre-detention, detention and prison facilities. They are responsible for preventing incidents of assault amongst inmates and for ensuring that inmates do not escape. The field of corrections is related to, and considered a sub-set of, law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
Individuals wishing to work in corrections can choose from a number of careers. Employment opportunities in corrections exist primarily in public organizations. Individuals are mostly employed in prisons and jails at the local, county, state and federal level. Careers in corrections include working in the capacity of a:

• Corrections officer
• Corrections officers manager/supervisor
• Prison warden
• Prison security officer
• Probation officer
• Parole officer
• Jail officer
• Halfway house administrator
• Researcher
• Policy maker

Depending on the level of education and the level of experience, individuals can earn between 20,000 to 50,000 U.S dollars a year on average.

Available Programs:

Corrections Degrees and Programs
Careers in corrections normally require individuals to enroll in training academies. These academies differ in duration at every level of government: local, state and federal. Subsequent to such training, Individuals receive on the job training.
Entering the corrections industry does not necessarily require individuals to acquire related academic degrees. Entry may, however, be easier for those who have relevant educational qualifications. There are a number of academic programs to choose from. In particular, the following degrees can prepare individuals for careers in corrections:

• Associate of Science in Criminal Justice (Concentration in  Corrections)
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (Concentration in  Corrections)
• Master of Science in Criminal Justice (Concentration in  Corrections)

Associate degrees are two years in duration. These programs facilitate entry into the correctional industry. Incomes subsequently rise with job experience. Bachelor degrees are four years in duration; individuals are able to consolidate their skill set during this period. Masters programs prepare individuals for more advanced careers often in the arena of policy making. Students study the sociology of corrections and correctional practices and advise as to how to improve these.
Areas of Study in Corrections
In the course of an academic or training program in corrections, students study a number of subjects. Areas of study include sociology of corrections, psychology, conflict resolution, parole, probation, managing adult offenders, managing young offenders, juvenile delinquency, corrections and ethics and security management. Individuals also acquire a number of practical skills in the course of academic and training programs. These include effective oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills and decision making skills. Individuals are also trained in firearm usage, self-defense tactics, riot management and dealing with incidents of assault. Individuals also learn to manage their stress effectively. This is fundamental considering that correctional careers often subject professionals to physical and emotional stress.