How to become a Corrections Officer

Corrections Officer Requirements and Info

A corrections officer is the officer in charge of monitoring the men and women in prisons. Sometimes referred to as detention officers, their goal is to overlook the prisoners, enforce the rules and regulations, and provide safety. Correctional officers may be required to work unarmed and need the skills to restrain prisoners if necessary. Sometimes they need to escort prisoners to another location.

• A high school diploma will allow you to get started with some entry level positions as a corrections officer, but not all. If you're interest is in a long term successful care err, you'll want to get started with a bachelors or masters from an accredited university Take a look at these top schools listed at the bottom of this page.

• You'll obviously want to get experience, especially in the law enforcement field. Since the job itself is so unique, any bit of experience will help you in your career as a corrections officer.
• Since you'll be literally dealing with prisoners first hand, you must be in good physical fitness and health.
• Pass a drug test and background check
• Search for the job you want with your local institutions. You'll need around 200 hours of formal training, plus 120 hours of specialized training in Georgia at the Federal Bureau of Prisons in the first two months. A city or county jail, on the other hand, won't require as much intense training.
• Always look to improve. As a corrections officer, you'll have the ability to move up in ranks to supervisory positions. The highest-ranking correctional officer is the warden, who runs the prison. Opportunities may also open up in probation or parole officer positions.

Select a Corrections Officer Training Program