Correctional Science: Corrections Officer

The Correctional Science: Corrections Officer Certificate program offers curriculum to prepare students with knowledge and skills necessary to complete the correctional officer academy.  Students will gain competence in oral communication in the interview process, competence in the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for entry level job performance.  Students completing this certificate will attain jobs in county correctional facilities (jails and detention facilities).  Certification is applicable statewide.

The pathway is designed as a 2 semester program. Based on the projected data, it is anticipated that 25 students annually will complete the program.  LMI projections note a need for 122 completers per year.

This program is designed to meet the Standards of Training for Corrections (STC).  The goal for this certificate is to provide basic abilities and other characteristics important for successful job performance.  Core training is intended to provide newly hired employees with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the job of correctional officer.  Core training provides the trainee with the basic concepts, tools, and skills necessary to make sense of the job and to accelerate the learning process for employment.

To qualify for the program, applicants must:

1. Be 18 years of age or older and have a high school diploma or G.E.D.
2. No felony or domestic violence convictions
3. Possess a valid California Driver’s License and provide a DMV printout of their driving record
4. Must pass a Department of Justice (DOJ) background clearance letter for firearms possession.  This clearance must have been conducted within 90 days of the start of the class