Additional Information
A bachelor's degree is typically considered to be the minimum education
required to become a parole officer. But this varies from state to state.
In some cases, parole officers must have some related work experience or,
at the very least, a good understanding of the job.
Because of these varying requirements, be sure to look into the local requirements
where you plan to work.
A background in sociology, criminal justice or counseling is helpful. Even
taking criminal justice courses during an unrelated bachelor's degree looks
good when applying to be a parole officer.
"It is helpful if the degree is in criminal justice, but it is typically
not required. A degree in any discipline is typically acceptable," says Keith
Hardison. He is the chief administrative officer at the Association of Paroling
Authorities International. "Many jobs as a parole officer are entry level,
so it is not required to have knowledge of the criminal justice system. You
will be trained in it, however."
In addition, any experience you can gain interviewing people and identifying
and assessing their behavior will help you stand out.
There are other factors to take into consideration, as well, says Brenda
Lepke. She is a parole officer in Georgia.
Aspiring parole officers should have a high score on their ACT or SAT,
she says. Otherwise, they'll need to take another test.
"You have to pass a criminal justice test, an extensive background check,
have a good driving record, a drug test, a psychological exam, a physical
exam and an eight-week basic training course with written tests on policy,
shooting tests, and tactical tests like arrest team role-playing situations,"
she says.