4 answers
Charlotte
Student
Ocala, Florida
1
Question
Asked
318 views
I have my associates degree in criminal justice and am working on my bachelor's degree . I am looking for employment in the corrections or probation field and am wondering,how do I proceed?I have been an independent contractor for 16years and getting into a new field and finding employment has been difficult.Can you provide some guidance on how to proceed?
I graduate in May with my bachelor's degree and have considered a master's but don't know if it is worth it or if I really need it.
Login to comment
4 answers
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
207
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hello!
Transitioning into the corrections or probation field can be challenging, but with your educational background and relevant experience, you can successfully navigate the job market. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you proceed:
1. Leverage Your Education
Highlight Your Associate's Degree: Emphasize your criminal justice education, as it provides foundational knowledge relevant to corrections and probation roles.
Focus on Relevant Coursework: When applying, mention any courses that specifically relate to corrections, probation, or rehabilitation.
2. Gain Relevant Experience
Internships and Volunteer Opportunities: Look for internships, volunteer positions, or entry-level jobs with probation departments, correctional facilities, or community organizations focused on rehabilitation. Many organizations appreciate the experience over direct employment in corrections.
Work with Community Services: Consider positions in social services or non-profits that work with at-risk populations or individuals within the criminal justice system. These roles can build relevant skills and connections.
3. Network Effectively
Connect with Professionals: Attend local criminal justice or corrections-related conferences, seminars, or events. Networking can help you meet individuals who work in the field and learn about job openings.
Utilize Online Platforms: Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with professionals in corrections and probation. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions.
4. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Focus on Transferable Skills: Highlight skills gained as an independent contractor, such as communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution, which are vital in corrections and probation roles.
Customize Applications: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, addressing specific job descriptions and demonstrating your understanding of the corrections system.
5. Prepare for Interviews
Research the Field: Familiarize yourself with current trends and issues in corrections and probation. Prepare to discuss how your background can contribute to these areas.
Practice Typical Interview Questions: Be ready to answer questions about handling challenging situations, maintaining professional ethics, and working with diverse populations.
6. Consider Additional Certifications
Certifications in Corrections or Probation: Research certifications that may enhance your qualifications, such as becoming a Certified Corrections Officer or obtaining specific training related to probation.
7. Evaluate Master’s Degree Options
Assess Career Goals: Consider whether additional education will significantly advance your career in corrections or probation. A Master’s degree could open opportunities for leadership roles or specialized positions.
Research Programs: If interested in pursuing a Master's, look for programs in Criminal Justice, Social Work, or Public Administration that pertain to corrections and probation.
8. Apply for Positions
Focus on Entry-Level Roles: Look for entry-level positions, such as probation officer assistant or corrections officer, to get your foot in the door.
Be Open to Various Opportunities: Consider roles in related fields, such as community outreach or case management, to gain additional experience and better understand the system.
Transitioning into the corrections or probation field may require persistence and strategic networking, but your educational background provides a solid foundation. Tailor your approach to highlight both your academic qualifications and relevant skills built through your independent contracting experience. Whether to pursue a Master's degree depends on your long-term career goals, so evaluate how it aligns with your desired career path. Good luck with your job search and future studies!
Transitioning into the corrections or probation field can be challenging, but with your educational background and relevant experience, you can successfully navigate the job market. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you proceed:
1. Leverage Your Education
Highlight Your Associate's Degree: Emphasize your criminal justice education, as it provides foundational knowledge relevant to corrections and probation roles.
Focus on Relevant Coursework: When applying, mention any courses that specifically relate to corrections, probation, or rehabilitation.
2. Gain Relevant Experience
Internships and Volunteer Opportunities: Look for internships, volunteer positions, or entry-level jobs with probation departments, correctional facilities, or community organizations focused on rehabilitation. Many organizations appreciate the experience over direct employment in corrections.
Work with Community Services: Consider positions in social services or non-profits that work with at-risk populations or individuals within the criminal justice system. These roles can build relevant skills and connections.
3. Network Effectively
Connect with Professionals: Attend local criminal justice or corrections-related conferences, seminars, or events. Networking can help you meet individuals who work in the field and learn about job openings.
Utilize Online Platforms: Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with professionals in corrections and probation. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions.
4. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Focus on Transferable Skills: Highlight skills gained as an independent contractor, such as communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution, which are vital in corrections and probation roles.
Customize Applications: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, addressing specific job descriptions and demonstrating your understanding of the corrections system.
5. Prepare for Interviews
Research the Field: Familiarize yourself with current trends and issues in corrections and probation. Prepare to discuss how your background can contribute to these areas.
Practice Typical Interview Questions: Be ready to answer questions about handling challenging situations, maintaining professional ethics, and working with diverse populations.
6. Consider Additional Certifications
Certifications in Corrections or Probation: Research certifications that may enhance your qualifications, such as becoming a Certified Corrections Officer or obtaining specific training related to probation.
7. Evaluate Master’s Degree Options
Assess Career Goals: Consider whether additional education will significantly advance your career in corrections or probation. A Master’s degree could open opportunities for leadership roles or specialized positions.
Research Programs: If interested in pursuing a Master's, look for programs in Criminal Justice, Social Work, or Public Administration that pertain to corrections and probation.
8. Apply for Positions
Focus on Entry-Level Roles: Look for entry-level positions, such as probation officer assistant or corrections officer, to get your foot in the door.
Be Open to Various Opportunities: Consider roles in related fields, such as community outreach or case management, to gain additional experience and better understand the system.
Transitioning into the corrections or probation field may require persistence and strategic networking, but your educational background provides a solid foundation. Tailor your approach to highlight both your academic qualifications and relevant skills built through your independent contracting experience. Whether to pursue a Master's degree depends on your long-term career goals, so evaluate how it aligns with your desired career path. Good luck with your job search and future studies!
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1752
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Charlotte,
You should be able to obtain a position with your Bachelor's. You don't want to be over-qualified, as that will give them reason to not hire you. If you want to further your education once you are hired, there is a good chance of getting tuition assistance.
The first thing you should do at this point is truly analyze past work experience and identify transferable skills, as stated by Ms. Tam.
Have you gotten any interviews? How have they gone? Are there certain questions that are tripping you up?
Are you able to handle yourself with prisoners? That is, what self-defense training do you have? Sorry to say, there tends to be an assumption that men can handle themselves but women cannot. Are you able to verbally de-escalate situations? Do you have examples? Are you physically-fit? Do you engage in activities you can cite to show your fitness level, such as running in marathons, coaching, etc?
There's a lot more to corrections and probation than just academics. You may need to take an intermediate job before landing the job you want, such as working with community organizations that service at-risk populations. Don't look at that as a failure - it's a stepping stone.
You've got this!
Kim
You should be able to obtain a position with your Bachelor's. You don't want to be over-qualified, as that will give them reason to not hire you. If you want to further your education once you are hired, there is a good chance of getting tuition assistance.
The first thing you should do at this point is truly analyze past work experience and identify transferable skills, as stated by Ms. Tam.
Have you gotten any interviews? How have they gone? Are there certain questions that are tripping you up?
Are you able to handle yourself with prisoners? That is, what self-defense training do you have? Sorry to say, there tends to be an assumption that men can handle themselves but women cannot. Are you able to verbally de-escalate situations? Do you have examples? Are you physically-fit? Do you engage in activities you can cite to show your fitness level, such as running in marathons, coaching, etc?
There's a lot more to corrections and probation than just academics. You may need to take an intermediate job before landing the job you want, such as working with community organizations that service at-risk populations. Don't look at that as a failure - it's a stepping stone.
You've got this!
Kim
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
2004
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
It's good to see you here, Charlotte !
In between careers in acting, I've spent a good number of years as an intensive Case Manager working for clients through private agencies. I think that I can share some advice for you that may lead you in a good direction regardless of what subject your Bachelors Degree is in because you didn't mention what you're majoring in. The Associates Degree you have already in Criminal Justice and if your Bachelors will be in a related field, that is great. There are opportunities for your career goal even if your Bachelors isn't related to your Associates Degree.
What strikes me is that you may be suited to work in Probation or Parole. It does take training in addition to your Bachelors Degree. There is indication that in Ocala, FL, you do not need a college degree to have this career but there is extensive training and a required Certification Exam needed. Check with the probation/parole office in Ocala to see if there may be some of the training waived for you if you have a Bachelors Degree. In some places that is the case.
Keep in mind that a career as a Social Worker would not be an option as criminal justice does not prepare one to do clinical therapy and it wouldn't prepare you to pass the social work certification exam.
Now try not to be confused about this like I was at first. Even though it is not mandatory in Ocala to have a Bachelors Degree for parole or probation, however, the EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION PROCESS wants candidates to have a Bachelors Degree. This may be because there may be officers in the dept. for a long time already that don't have the Bachelors Degree. So your best bet is to indeed get the degree. You'd need a Drivers License and a Certification in CPR and First Aid keeping it active/renewed for your whole career. You will need to know case management practices, interviewing and counseling techniques, and computer programs. You can contact your local probation/parole office or their website to get any requirements for applying, but definitely obtain the Bachelors Degree which you are doing now.
I also do not know what the career is that you've stated you're transitioning from. You said you are an independent contractor, but in what field of work ? Hopefully it is connected to the one you want to transition to. I do hope this information is something to consider and I wish you all the best at college and in all you do !
In between careers in acting, I've spent a good number of years as an intensive Case Manager working for clients through private agencies. I think that I can share some advice for you that may lead you in a good direction regardless of what subject your Bachelors Degree is in because you didn't mention what you're majoring in. The Associates Degree you have already in Criminal Justice and if your Bachelors will be in a related field, that is great. There are opportunities for your career goal even if your Bachelors isn't related to your Associates Degree.
What strikes me is that you may be suited to work in Probation or Parole. It does take training in addition to your Bachelors Degree. There is indication that in Ocala, FL, you do not need a college degree to have this career but there is extensive training and a required Certification Exam needed. Check with the probation/parole office in Ocala to see if there may be some of the training waived for you if you have a Bachelors Degree. In some places that is the case.
Keep in mind that a career as a Social Worker would not be an option as criminal justice does not prepare one to do clinical therapy and it wouldn't prepare you to pass the social work certification exam.
Now try not to be confused about this like I was at first. Even though it is not mandatory in Ocala to have a Bachelors Degree for parole or probation, however, the EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION PROCESS wants candidates to have a Bachelors Degree. This may be because there may be officers in the dept. for a long time already that don't have the Bachelors Degree. So your best bet is to indeed get the degree. You'd need a Drivers License and a Certification in CPR and First Aid keeping it active/renewed for your whole career. You will need to know case management practices, interviewing and counseling techniques, and computer programs. You can contact your local probation/parole office or their website to get any requirements for applying, but definitely obtain the Bachelors Degree which you are doing now.
I also do not know what the career is that you've stated you're transitioning from. You said you are an independent contractor, but in what field of work ? Hopefully it is connected to the one you want to transition to. I do hope this information is something to consider and I wish you all the best at college and in all you do !
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6880
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Charlotte!
Step 1: Assess Your Current Qualifications and Experience
With an associate’s degree in criminal justice and nearing completion of your bachelor’s degree, you have a solid educational foundation for entering the corrections or probation field. Your 16 years as an independent contractor may provide you with transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and time management, which are valuable in these roles.
Step 2: Research Employment Opportunities
Start by researching job openings in your area. Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and USAJobs can be useful for finding positions related to corrections and probation. Look for roles such as probation officer, correctional treatment specialist, or case manager. Pay attention to the qualifications required for each position to ensure you meet them.
Step 3: Networking
Networking is crucial in the criminal justice field. Attend local job fairs, join professional organizations such as the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA), and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Informational interviews can also be beneficial; reach out to individuals currently working in your desired field to gain insights into their career paths and advice on entering the industry.
Step 4: Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for jobs, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job descriptions. Emphasize any coursework related to corrections or probation, internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects during your studies.
Step 5: Consider Internships or Entry-Level Positions
If you’re having difficulty securing a full-time position immediately after graduation, consider applying for internships or entry-level positions within corrections or probation departments. These opportunities can provide valuable experience and help you build connections in the field.
Step 6: Evaluate Further Education Options
Regarding pursuing a master’s degree, it depends on your career goals. A master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field can enhance your qualifications and potentially lead to higher-paying positions or specialized roles within corrections or probation. However, many entry-level positions do not require a master’s degree. If you are interested in advancing quickly within the field or specializing in areas like forensic psychology or rehabilitation services, further education may be beneficial.
Conclusion
To proceed effectively into the corrections or probation field:
Assess your qualifications.
Research job openings.
Network with professionals.
Tailor application materials.
Consider internships if necessary.
Evaluate whether a master’s degree aligns with your career aspirations.
By following these steps systematically, you will increase your chances of successfully transitioning into this new career path.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Probation and Parole Association (APPA): This organization provides resources for professionals working in probation and parole systems including training programs and networking opportunities.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information, and educational requirements for various careers within criminal justice fields including corrections officers and probation officers.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ): The NIJ conducts research on crime prevention strategies including those used in corrections systems; their findings can inform best practices for those entering this field.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Step 1: Assess Your Current Qualifications and Experience
With an associate’s degree in criminal justice and nearing completion of your bachelor’s degree, you have a solid educational foundation for entering the corrections or probation field. Your 16 years as an independent contractor may provide you with transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and time management, which are valuable in these roles.
Step 2: Research Employment Opportunities
Start by researching job openings in your area. Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and USAJobs can be useful for finding positions related to corrections and probation. Look for roles such as probation officer, correctional treatment specialist, or case manager. Pay attention to the qualifications required for each position to ensure you meet them.
Step 3: Networking
Networking is crucial in the criminal justice field. Attend local job fairs, join professional organizations such as the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA), and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Informational interviews can also be beneficial; reach out to individuals currently working in your desired field to gain insights into their career paths and advice on entering the industry.
Step 4: Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for jobs, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job descriptions. Emphasize any coursework related to corrections or probation, internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects during your studies.
Step 5: Consider Internships or Entry-Level Positions
If you’re having difficulty securing a full-time position immediately after graduation, consider applying for internships or entry-level positions within corrections or probation departments. These opportunities can provide valuable experience and help you build connections in the field.
Step 6: Evaluate Further Education Options
Regarding pursuing a master’s degree, it depends on your career goals. A master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field can enhance your qualifications and potentially lead to higher-paying positions or specialized roles within corrections or probation. However, many entry-level positions do not require a master’s degree. If you are interested in advancing quickly within the field or specializing in areas like forensic psychology or rehabilitation services, further education may be beneficial.
Conclusion
To proceed effectively into the corrections or probation field:
Assess your qualifications.
Research job openings.
Network with professionals.
Tailor application materials.
Consider internships if necessary.
Evaluate whether a master’s degree aligns with your career aspirations.
By following these steps systematically, you will increase your chances of successfully transitioning into this new career path.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Probation and Parole Association (APPA): This organization provides resources for professionals working in probation and parole systems including training programs and networking opportunities.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information, and educational requirements for various careers within criminal justice fields including corrections officers and probation officers.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ): The NIJ conducts research on crime prevention strategies including those used in corrections systems; their findings can inform best practices for those entering this field.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯