Additional Information
The first step in becoming a correctional officer is to pass a selection
process. It usually includes a written test, a video test where applicants
watch scenarios and indicate how they would respond, and a security check.
Training for correctional officers varies, depending on where you work.
Training requirements also differ between federal and state institutions.
Generally, applicants must be at least 18 or 21 years of age, have a high
school education or its equivalent, have no felony convictions and be a U.S.
citizen.
The federal system and some states screen applicants for drug abuse and
post a written or oral exam. Candidates must have good physical fitness, eyesight,
hearing and a driver's license, and must pass a criminal check.
The federal prison system in the U.S. offers training programs for newly
hired corrections officers that involve several months of intensive training
followed by on-the-job training. State prisons often have their own training
systems in place.
New types of training are being offered as the prison population becomes
more diverse. For example, some of the courses now being offered cover working
with culturally diverse staff, communication skills, computer use, thinking
and problem solving, managing stress and change, conflict resolution, interpersonal
relations and team building.
To learn more about entering this career, including entrance requirements,
training and career opportunities at the state level, contact your state department
of corrections, nearby correctional institutions, police departments and county
sheriff offices.
For more information about federal requirements, contact a regional recruitment
office of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Check your phone book for a toll-free
telephone number.
A college degree is not required for employment. But correctional institutions
are increasingly seeking officers with post-secondary education, particularly
in psychology, criminal justice, police science, criminology or related fields.