What is the most common educational requirement for correctional officers?

For many correctional officer jobs, a high school diploma or equivalent is all that’s required. However, some employers or work settings might demand higher education, and earning a postsecondary degree can be vitally important for advancement later on.

Do correctional officers have to take a polygraph?

In most states, applicants for correctional officer jobs have to pass a background check and a physical fitness test. New Hampshire is the only state in New England that also requires correctional officers pass a polygraph test.

What is the average life expectancy of a correctional officer?

59 years
A recent study of the consequences of job stress in correctional officers revealed that the life expectancy of a correctional officer is 59 years, compared to 75 years for the national average.

Can you fail a polygraph by being nervous?

According to a report from the National Academy of Sciences, “[a] variety of mental and physical factors, such as anxiety about being tested, can affect polygraph results – making the technique susceptible to error.” Unfortunately, once you have failed a government polygraph test, there may be little you can do to …

What will disqualify you from a polygraph test?

Questions on the Police Polygraph or CVSA Illegal drug trafficking or dealing. Illegal drug or medication use, including steroids. Use of alcohol. Falsification or minimization in your requested information.

How many correctional officers were killed?

According to the Officer Down Memorial Page Web site, since the inception of what is currently CDCR, 33 employees have been killed in the line of duty.

Why do Correctional officers have a high divorce rate?

Why do Correctional officers have a high divorce rate? Supervisors of correctional officers – Similar to dispatchers, first-line supervisors of correctional officers experience a high level of stress, which makes them feel unhappy outside of work, including in their marriages. The divorce rate is 46.9%.

What kind of Education do you need to be a correctional officer?

Some state and local agencies will hire someone with a high school diploma, while federal jobs call for a bachelor’s degree or relevant experience. After being hired, correctional officers may be required to complete a training program at a government academy, followed by a period of on-the-job training.

How does the NIC support the corrections field?

NIC supports the corrections field with a variety of classroom and online training programs. This section is devoted to providing access to NIC learning events and enabling those who want to attain the success they set for themselves.

How long do correctional officers work on probation?

In order to instruct new hires in common procedures and protocols, they usually work through a probationary period that may be between several months and two years in length. During this time, senior correctional officers closely supervise probationary officers, instructing them in the details of their responsibilities.

Why do correctional officers live in close quarters?

Living and learning in close quarters with other new-hire trainees helps develop a level of familiarity and camaraderie among fellow recruits and senior officers, ensuring that there is a strong sense of professional purpose and team loyalty.