Corrections Degrees

Corrections deals with the rehabilitation and reintegration of criminals back into society. The larger corrections industry stretches from jails, penitentiaries, and courthouses to social work and counseling centers. There always exists a certain element of danger when working with at-risk individuals, which is why most corrections positions require formal training, both on and off the job. Three of the most common careers in the field include social workers, probation officers, and corrections officers.

Corrections Degrees

The exact educational requirements vary considerably for the above three positions, with social workers needing the most formal training. They typically require a bachelors degree or higher, plus licensing, certification, and registration. Coursework includes psychology, conflict resolution, health, activism, biology, sociology, economics, and political science. Probation officers usually require a bachelors degree in criminal justice, psychology, or social work, plus a written, oral, and psychological exam. Corrections officers often receive the bulk of their training on the job and via specialized academies. Corrections officers must also pass rigorous safety, physical, and psychological tests due to their high-risk work environments. In almost all cases, having a second language can prove useful.

Career Outlook in Corrections

Fortunately (or unfortunately), job opportunities should be favorable over the next 8-10 years for those with adequate training. Demand for corrections officers could increase by as much as 16% through 2016. Social workers can expect even more remarkable growth at 22%. If these estimates are correct, then their current, respective median salaries ($35K to $42K) should increase considerably as well.