Correctional Officers are the law enforcement personnel who are responsible for supervising prisoners, making sure that all prison rules are being followed and keeping state, local and federal correctional facilities secure. Their working conditions can be difficult and highly stressful. Thus, you need to fulfill an extensive set of requirements to become a correctional officer.
By the way, how about the education requirement for a Correctional Officer? Well, here we are going to share about the basic minimum requirements, educational and training requirements for a Correctional Officer.
Minimum Requirements for Correctional Officer
The requirements below are subject to variation according to state:
- The candidates have to be United State citizens
- The candidates should be at least 18-21 years old (several states have a minimum age requirement of 18, while other states have 21 as the set standard)
- The candidates have to own a high school diploma/ GED.
- The candidates should not have felony convictions.
- The candidates have to own a valid driver’s license.
- The candidates have to be in good physical and mental shape.
Education Requirements for Correctional Officer
The basic education which you need to have for entry level positions as correctional officers is a high school diploma or a GED. Although most states do not need qualifications above this level, but it is common knowledge that a higher degree will be able to lead to better career prospects. Several states or particular correctional institutions might need you to get college level education.
Those aspiring officers who plan on working at the federal level are going to be required to get at least a bachelor’s degree. They are able to go for a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, police studies or any other law enforcement field. They are encouraged to take the courses in constitutional law, criminal investigations, peacekeeping, etc.
Also, the candidates are able to select to go for a two-year long associate degree or a certification program which may take less than a year to complete. But, while certifications are good stepping stones for career development, the certifications do not offer knowledge as broad as a bachelor’s or an associate degree. In several cases, this educational requirement can be waived off if the candidate has prior military experience.
Selection Process Requirements for Correctional Officer
After you have met the minimum and the educational requirements, there are certain things that you need to be aware of before you enter the selection process. This process will need you to be successful in the following areas:
- Written Exam
After you have already submitted your application, then you are going to be sent a notification for a written exam. The exam will evaluate your skills in English language and math, including spelling, grammar, and reading comprehension. The length of the exam will vary according to the local laws. For example, in California, this is a one hour and forty-five minutes exam.
- Physical Fitness Test
Because the job needs you to do several physically demanding activities, this physical fitness test is one of the most difficult and crucial components of the selection process. You are going to be required to perform tasks such as running up and down a flight of stairs, running 500 yards, completing a small obstacle course and several weight related exercises. The candidates who work out on a regular basis might not require extra training in this section, but for those who do not usually work out, it is very crucial to get into good shape before getting to this stage of the selection process.
- Background Check
The background check is done to make sure that you are of a good moral and ethical character. Your past employment records are going to be checked, along with your criminal records, financial history, relationships, etc. Also, your past employers, educational institutions and other agencies may be contacted to get information about you.
- Vision Test
This vision test will check your visual acuity and color vision. Exact specifications of the minimum requirement can vary from state to state. For example, in California, if a candidate does not have a 20/20 vision in each eye, she or he is needed to submit a written certification from an optometrist that their vision is correctable to 20/20.
- Psychological Exam
This psychological exam will determine your psychological health to serve as a correctional officer and deal with the pressures associated with the job.
- Medical Exam
This medical exam will be a comprehensive medical exam carried out by a licensed physician to determine the candidate’s overall physical condition.
- Eligible For Hire
After all those requirements are met, qualifying candidates are placed on a certification list and also become eligible to be appointed as a correctional officer.
Keep in mind that those requirements are subject to vary according to the state you are in. So, you have to ensure that you check local information before beginning the process for application and selection.
Training Requirements for Correctional Officer
The Correctional officers are needed to complete a formal training session at a local academy that includes classes in law and order, criminal rights, communication, etc. Also, the trainees will receive hands-on training in the use of firearms, prisoner restraint and transportation, among other subjects. The training requirements will vary according to the level you are applying at. For example, federal correctional officers usually need to complete an intense training session in the first year of employment. For example, 200 hours of general education, along with 120 hours of skill building, self-defense and endurance training are needed to be completed at The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Glynco, GA.
Career Advancement Options
For correctional officers who intend to apply for advanced positions, there are some options for continuing education. A professional certification can be obtained through the American Correctional Association (ACA), called the Certified Correctional Officer (CCO). Most advancement options will need additional education or experience to get promotions. Correctional Officers may get promoted to supervisory roles, such as correctional sergeant that involves the supervision of other correctional officers and maintaining overall security in the facility. Several Correctional officers might advance to the position of a warden if the relevant qualifications and requirements are met. Correctional officers holding college degrees may have better chances for advancement.
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