The Correctional Officer’s Management Diploma Program is designed to address the needs of correctional officers seeking advanced training beyond their basic training. Taken from a more managerial perspective, this program would be beneficial to those seeking to upgrade their skills, for promotional or other institutional advancement, or to seek management positions. The program covers topics such as, a review of the criminal justice system, constitutional rights of prisoners, sociology, psychology, offender classification and programs, behavioral recognition, identifying gangs, practical reasoning, sexual harassment, hostage survival techniques and environmental security procedures, report writing, positive climate, conflict resolution, offender disciplinary procedures, and effective communication.

This program would also be beneficial to those seeking entry level positions in Corrections, however it is not a prerequisite to gaining employment. The primary duty of Correctional Officers is to maintain custody and supervise the conduct of inmates in prisons, penitentiaries, conservation camps and community correctional work centers. Officers supervise inmates during work, meals, bathing, recreation and in all other activities, and escort them during transfers inside and outside of the institution.

Correctional Officers work in various sized penal institutions, ranging from tightly controlled, maximum-security prisons to light-security complexes resembling college campuses. Some work in small, minimum-security conservation camps located in forest and brush lands throughout the state. A few are assigned to "halfway houses" or to community correctional centers, which are located in several major cities.

Those seeking employment in corrections should check on the hiring requirements for your state. Generally, you must be 21 years old, have a high school diploma, and be free of criminal convictions.

Please click on the course number below to see the course description and textbook being used in this course.