Undergraduate Certificate in Corrections
Overview
The Corrections Certificate empowers you with the essential knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the correctional system, opening the door to a rewarding career dedicated to justice, rehabilitation, and positive change. This program offers a focused curriculum that explores the principles of corrections, criminal justice procedures, rehabilitation methods, and the role of correctional facilities in society.
Whether you are looking to begin a career in corrections or enhance your current role in law enforcement, probation, or prison administration, this certificate provides practical insights into the challenges and responsibilities faced by correctional professionals. Through a combination of theoretical study and real-world applications, you will be prepared to contribute to the justice system while upholding ethical and legal standards in correctional settings.
Tuition and Fees:
$350
per credit hour
Efficient Completion:
1-4 years*
*depending on transfer credits
and your course load
Financial Aid
Kentucky State University's Office of Financial Aid coordinates federal, state, institutional, and external financial aid programs to ensure equitable and efficient use of available funding.
Our mission is to support and advocate for students, providing guidance on financial assistance to enhance their success in higher education.
Our vision is to remove financial barriers by offering resources with a focus on CARE, DIVERSITY, GUIDANCE, ACCESS, and EFFICIENCY. While financial aid helps cover educational costs, it typically does not fully fund tuition.
Financial Aid Services
FAFSA Help
Reviewing Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and resolving any database matches or other criteria for participating in the student aid programs
Eligibility
Assessing eligibility for federal, state, institutional, and other aid awards
Awards Management
Send award notifications and make awards adjustments based on additional resources
or due to enrollment status changes.
Advising
Advising on next step actions for application process, disbursement of aid, and other special circumstances via in-person, telephone, and email contacts.
Outreach
Participation in outreach activities: orientation, financial aid workshops, etc.
Financial Aid is available
We're here to help you through the process! Contact the Financial Aid office for more
information.
Contact KSU Financial Aid
Career Outlook
Earning a Corrections Certificate can open doors to a variety of roles within the criminal justice system, including positions in correctional facilities, probation services, juvenile detention centers, and community rehabilitation programs. The demand for skilled correctional professionals continues to grow as the system evolves to focus on rehabilitation and public safety.
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Salary and Job Growth Expectations
Salary Expectations
- Correctional Officers: The median annual wage for correctional officers and jailers is around $47,920. Salaries may vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility. Federal facilities typically offer higher wages compared to state or local institutions.
- Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists: These roles offer a median annual wage of approximately $60,250. With advanced experience and education, salaries can rise, especially in management or specialized rehabilitation roles.
- Supervisory Roles: For those with experience or additional qualifications, correctional supervisors or administrators can earn upwards of $80,000 or more annually.
Job Growth Expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for correctional officers is projected to grow by 4% through 2032, with continued demand for professionals in both state and federal correctional institutions. The need for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is also expected to grow, with the focus on rehabilitating offenders and reducing recidivism. As correctional systems modernize, professionals trained in up-to-date methods will find themselves in high demand.
Achieving a Corrections Certificate not only positions you for these career paths but also equips you with the tools to advance into leadership roles as the field continues to grow and adapt.
Admissions
Students who meet the criteria of unweighted high school grade point average of 2.5-4.00 on a 4.00 scale will be granted Standard Admission.
Kentucky State University’s Excel Program is designed to provide First-time Freshman students with an opportunity to attend and matriculate through a four year institution despite not meeting traditional admissions requirements.
Excel Students are afforded the opportunity to earn both their Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degrees by successfully completing 60 hours (two years) and receiving their Associate’s Degree and continuing to complete their remaining 60 hours (two years) and receive their Bachelor’s degree. Click here for more information.
Admission Process
1
Complete Application
2
Submit Transcripts
3
Discover Funding
4
Enroll in Classes
Major Courses and Requirements
Core Courses:
- Introduction to Criminal Justice - Credits: 3
- Introduction to Criminal Law - Credits: 3
- Corrections - Credits: 3
- Criminal Justice Ethics - Credits: 3
Elective Courses (Pick one):
- Interracial/ Intercultural Communication - Credits: 3
- Contemporary Social Problems - Credits: 3
- Institutional Communication - Credits: 3
- Juvenile Justice - Credits: 3
- Restorative Justice - Credits: 3