Criminal Justice Technology / Corrections Officer Track (A607 - 2605)
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At a Glance
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This degree program is a limited access program for the Criminal Justice Academy student (Corrections and Law Enforcement certificate program students) and/or the correction and law enforcement officer who wishes to advance in his or her career. |
Employment Opportunities |
Correction Officer (It is necessary to complete the Corrections Academy)
In 2006, about 3 of every 5 jobs were in State correctional institutions such as prisons, prison camps, and youth correctional facilities. About 18,000 jobs for correctional officers were in Federal correctional institutions, and about 16,000 jobs were in privately owned and managed prisons.
Other correctional officers oversee individuals being held by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service pending release or deportation or work for correctional institutions that are run by private, for-profit organizations.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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Job Outlook |
Employment of correctional officers is expected to grow 16 percent between 2006 and 2016, faster than the average for all occupations. Increasing demand for correctional officers will stem from population growth and rising rates of incarceration. Mandatory sentencing guidelines calling for longer sentences and reduced parole for inmates are a primary reason for historically increasing incarceration rates. Some States are reconsidering mandatory sentencing guidelines because of budgetary constraints, court decisions, and doubts about their effectiveness. Additionally, the Supreme Court recently ruled to make Federal sentencing guidelines voluntary, rather than mandatory, for judges. It is unclear how many States will change their sentencing policies and how long it will be before any changes affect the prison population. Nevertheless, these developments could moderate future increases in the prison population and cause employment of correctional officers to grow more slowly than they have in the past.
Some employment opportunities also will arise in the private sector, as public authorities contract with private companies to provide and staff corrections facilities. Both State and Federal corrections agencies are increasingly using private prisons.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
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Salary Information |
The mean hourly wage for correctional officers and jailers in Florida in 2008 was $18.98. The mean annual wage or salary was $39,464.96.
Under “Resources”, select Labor Market Information; Occupational Profile; click on A County, click on Palm Beach n the map; type corrections.
employflorida
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| Special Skills or Qualifications Needed |
Most institutions require correctional officers to be at least 18 to 21 years of age and a U.S. citizen. Must be observant and resourceful. Able to remain calm under stress. Must be in good physical condition (a fitness test is required). Should be sensitive to cultural diversity and identify with the community. Must have strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
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| Career Path Notes |
Students who plan to transfer to the Florida Atlantic University Public Management program (B.S.) or the Florida Gulf Coast University Criminal Justice program (BPM) should meet with a criminal justice advisor prior to registering for courses. For information on transfer agreements, visit www.pbcc.edu/transfer.xml. |
Career Planning Suggestions for Success |
Thoroughly research the occupation and talk with a professional in the field. The PBCC Career Consultants Network may have the name of a person you can contact. Refer to the Career Center information listed below.
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