Degrees and Training to Succeed in the Corrections Industry
Every day people go to jail for breaking the law, and every day somebody has to guard and supervise these inmates to ensure orderly conduct. Correctional officers primarily work in jails and prisons, and they help to admit and process 13 million people every year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They maintain security to prevent assaults and escapes, and they may perform regular inspections for contraband and other illegal items. The job is often from 9 to 5, but officers may have swing shifts or night shifts since inmates must be supervised at all times.
The Corrections Industry at a Glance
Nearly half a million people work in the corrections industry. Most of the jobs are through the local, state, or federal governments. Jobs are primarily found at prisons, prison camps, and youth correctional facilities. From 2008 to 2018, job growth is expected to increase by 9%, so there will be plenty of openings for those individuals interested in working in this field. The mean annual wage for a correctional officer is almost $43,000.
Degrees and Training to Start With
Most corrections industry jobs only require a high school diploma or GED. Military experience is often a bonus, which can help you to more easily secure a corrections job. Many federal, state, and local agencies offer training programs for their specific organization, and then they may have on-the-job training as well. Information about legal restrictions and interpersonal relationships are essential parts of the training. Self-defense techniques and firearms proficiency are also often taught. On-the-job training ranges by agency. Some agencies will have you supervised in the actual job for several months to help ensure that you get started on the right foot in your corrections career.
Degrees to Succeed With and Other Ways to Advance
Education can really help to advance your career in the corrections industry along with a solid work ethic. A bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a corrections specialization can be helpful early on as you work your way up to supervisory and administrative positions, and a bachelor's degree is required for federal jobs If you are intending to go all the way to being warden of a jail, a criminal justice master's degree in the field may further help your chances of standing out and earning that position.
The federal government has the most training and education requirements. The first year of employment comes with the requirement of 200 hours of formal training. Furthermore, 120 hours of specialized training at the Federal Bureau of Prisons residential training center is expected within 60 days of your job appointment. In general, you'll need to stay abreast of new rules and regulations in your corrections job.
Protecting Your Community
A career in the corrections industry is hard work. Different jails and prisons can be more stressful than others. However, you can take heart in knowing that you're helping to protect society from criminals and in some instances, violent offenders. It's a very important duty, and making this contribution can make this a satisfying job.
Search for an accredited online university program to find your corrections education program.
