Bachelor of Science (BS): Corrections Degree Overview

A Bachelor of Science in Corrections program prepares graduates to take positions in juvenile and adult corrections, which include parole, probation, institutions or other areas of correctional treatment that's community based. This may be a career choice for someone interested in the law enforcement field and making a difference in the world.

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Bachelor of Science in Corrections

This program prepares students for entry-level work overseeing convicted criminals or those awaiting trial. Students gain skills in a number of areas, including institutional policies, regulations and general security procedures. Other areas of focus include inmate protection, social disturbance management, riot and crowd control, hostage negotiation, forced cell moves and disarming weapon-bearing prisoners. Corrections is often a concentration or track in a criminal justice degree program. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED for admission.

Course Topics

The program's curriculum combines coursework with internships where students obtain real-time experience working in the field. Some courses may be offered through distance learning. Students take courses in various fields, such as government, psychology and sociology. Other course topics may include:

  • Criminal procedure
  • Probation, parole and corrections
  • Criminal law
  • Administrative techniques in corrections
  • Criminal investigations
  • Juvenile corrections
  • Delinquency and crime prevention
  • Correctional institutions
  • Defensive tactics
  • Legal issues in corrections

Popular Career Options

Graduates have the knowledge and experience from courses and internships to qualify for employment in various settings in law enforcement. Possible career titles may include:

  • Correctional treatment specialist
  • Correctional counselor
  • Case manager
  • Probation officer
  • Youth correctional case worker

Continuing Education Information

Correctional officers may find employment with an associate's degree, but many employers prefer a bachelor's degree or higher, particularly for probation or parole officers and correctional treatment specialists. Individuals interested in advancement may often pursue master's degrees in psychology, criminal justice or social work. Law enforcement and corrections also requires always being abreast of new laws and legal techniques, so candidates usually attend training sessions and seminars as often as necessary.

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