The Correctional Officer Career Certificate (C.C.) provides students criminal justice training and education to prepare them to manage inmates and perform operational duties in the areas of care, custody and control within the correctional institution. Through the Criminal Justice Training Center, students learn everything needed to become a corrections officer, from inmate intake, the use of firearms and defensive maneuvers, to constitutional law, communication equipment and crisis intervention.

Accreditation

The Northeast Florida Criminal Justice Center is a certified training center through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The program is based on the mandated curriculum established by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.

Mission/Purpose

The mission of the Correctional Officer certificate program is to provide education and training to prepare students to take and pass the correction officer test, otherwise known as the State Officer Certification Exam, and to perform the duties required of entry-level corrections officer jobs.

Program Entry Requirements

• Must be at least 19 years old
• Must be a citizen of the United States
• Have graduated from a high school or obtained a high school equivalency certificate
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Be of good moral character
• Not have been convicted of a felony regardless of whether or not adjudication was withheld
• Not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving perjury or making a false statement as defined by law, regardless of whether or not adjudication was withheld
• Not have been dishonorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces
• Not have falsified their program application or personal history

Application Process

• Take and pass the Corrections Basic Abilities Test (COBAT)
• Have a medical examination certifying your level of fitness to participate in the program
• Pass a physical ability test (PAT)
• Pass a drug screen
• Have a driving history check
• Have a criminal background check
• Pass a background investigation and a polygraph exam
• Pass an Oral Entrance Interview

Industry Associations

• Corrections Connection
• Florida Association of Community Corrections

If you are considering employment in a state other than Florida, click here to ensure the program curriculum meets the requirements to sit for licensure or certification testing in that state.