Correctional Officer classes near me

Being a correctional officer is more than just a job; it's a calling to serve, protect, and help rehabilitate individuals who have found themselves on the wrong side of the law. Correctional officers play a vital role in maintaining order and safety within prisons and jails while also working to help inmates prepare for successful reintegration into society.

If you feel called to make a difference in your community and in the lives of others, a career as a correctional officer might be the perfect fit for you. Although many have mentioned that the pay for correctional officers may not seem sufficient given the risks involved, it's important to highlight the invaluable service they provide to society and the potential for meaningful career growth and fulfillment within the profession.

Dreambound offers a comprehensive directory of correctional officer classes near you, providing the training and education you need to start your journey in this rewarding field. Find a program in your area and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in corrections. Discover the diverse voices within our community as students share their candid thoughts and feedback.

"Dreambound is an easy-to-use and professional platform. It helps you reach your goals and make your dreams a reality. Dreambound provides the tools and guidance you need to succeed." Samantha Williams
"Its truly amazing! Life-changing, actually. Im so grateful to Dreambound for helping me start my career journey. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to further their career path!!! Thank you, Dreambound!" Candise Williams
"I like the fact that Dreambound had a variety of classes to choose from, and they were not too long to complete. I may consider taking another class." Dorothy McDaniel

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Southern New Hampshire University

AS Criminal Justice

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Flexible term starts – six 8-week terms per year
24/7 online accessibility

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ECPI University- Online

Criminal Justice- Bachelor's

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Earn a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice 100% Online
Equipped for Various Roles in Law Enforcement

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Liberty University Online

AA: Criminal Justice

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Online, completion in as little as 24 months.
Option to transfer credits for up to 75% of the entire degree.

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Southern New Hampshire University

BS Criminal Justice with concentration in Police Administration and Operations

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Flexible term starts - six 8-week terms per year
24/7 online accessibility

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Learn more about the Criminal Justice certification

What is a Correctional Officer?

A correctional officer, also known as a prison guard or detention officer, is a professional responsible for the supervision, safety, and security of inmates in a prison, jail, or other correctional facility. Their primary duties include:

Maintaining order and discipline within the facility
Enforcing rules and regulations
Supervising inmate activities and movements
Conducting regular security checks and inspections
Responding to emergencies and incidents
Escorting inmates to and from court appearances, medical appointments, or other locations
Providing guidance and support to help inmates with rehabilitation and reintegration
Writing reports and maintaining records on inmate behavior and activities
Communicating with other staff members and superiors to ensure the smooth operation of the facility
Participating in training programs to stay up-to-date with the latest correctional practices and procedures

Correctional officers play a crucial role in the criminal justice system, working to ensure the secure and humane treatment of individuals who are incarcerated while also promoting public safety. The job requires a unique combination of physical and mental strength, as well as the ability to handle high-stress situations with professionalism and compassion.

How to become a Correctional Officer?

To become a correctional officer, you typically need to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, at least 18-21 years old, and have a high school diploma or GED. A college degree in a related field may be preferred. Candidates must pass an entrance exam, physical fitness tests, and a psychological evaluation. After being hired, officers complete a training program lasting several weeks to a few months. With experience and additional training, officers can advance to supervisory or specialized positions. Requirements may vary by state and agency, so research the specific requirements for your desired location and organization.

What does a Correctional Officer do?

Correctional officers play a vital role in maintaining public safety and promoting the rehabilitation of individuals in the criminal justice system. They maintain safety, security, and order within a correctional facility by supervising inmates, conducting security checks, enforcing rules, responding to emergencies, escorting inmates, maintaining records, communicating with colleagues, and assisting with rehabilitation programs.

How much does a Correctional Officer make?

The median annual wage for correctional officers and jailers was $49,610 in May 2022, according to the BLS. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,510, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $82,600. However, the starting salary for correctional officers can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific agency or facility.

How long does it take to become a Correctional Officer?

Becoming a certified correctional officer can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on various factors such as the training program and the individual's dedication. The process typically involves research and preparation (1-2 months), certification classes (3-6 months), ongoing physical fitness training, a certification exam (1-2 months), a background check and application (1-2 months), and a job search and hiring process (3-6 months). The timeline can vary based on individual circumstances and jurisdictional requirements.

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Waldorf University

AA Criminal Justice

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Online, estimated completion in 2 years for full-time students
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Southern New Hampshire University

BS Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology Crime Analysis

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Flexible term starts - six 8-week terms per year
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Waldorf University

BS Criminal Justice

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Online, estimated completion in 4 years for full-time students
Customizable degree with concentrations in various criminal justice fields

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Liberty University Online

BS: Criminal Justice: Criminal Psychology

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Online, completion in as little as 48 months.
Option to transfer credits for up to 75% of the entire degree.

Financial aid (may be available)

Where can a Correctional Officer work?

Correctional officers can work in various settings, including prisons, jails, juvenile detention centers, immigration detention centers, and community corrections facilities. Prisons are the most common workplace, housing convicted individuals serving sentences. Jails are temporary holding facilities operated by local governments. Juvenile detention centers house minors accused or convicted of crimes, requiring additional support from officers. Immigration detention centers hold individuals awaiting hearings or deportation. Community corrections settings, such as halfway houses or probation offices, focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, with officers providing guidance to help individuals transition back into society.

Correctional Officer classes by City

In order to help you find correctional officer class, at Dreambound we've gathered the most comprehensive list of correctional officer classes in the US. Additionally, Dreambound offers degree programs such as an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, providing students with foundational and advanced knowledge in the field to pursue diverse career opportunities.

Below you can find a list of correctional officer classes, organized by city. If you don't see your city listed, you can always** search by zip code**.

How to become a Correctional Officer

We know taking the first step to becoming a correctional officer can be scary. That's why we're trying to demystify the process by writing guides on how to become a correctional officer. Since State process or requirements may vary, we've written separate guides for each state: