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Correctional Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Correctional Science information

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$36.5K

$57.5K

$78K

How much do correctional science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for correctional science in the United States is $57,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Correctional Science, and why are they important?

To thrive in Correctional Science, you need a solid understanding of criminal justice principles, correctional policies, and offender management, typically supported by a degree in correctional science or criminal justice. Familiarity with case management software, security systems, and incident reporting tools is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and conflict resolution abilities help professionals manage challenging interactions and maintain safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the effective and humane operation of correctional facilities while maintaining security and order.

What is Correctional Science?

Correctional Science is the study of the correctional system, including prisons, probation, parole, and rehabilitation programs. It focuses on the management, treatment, and supervision of individuals who have been convicted of crimes. Students and professionals in this field learn about criminal justice policies, inmate rights, correctional facility operations, and rehabilitation strategies. This field prepares individuals for various roles within correctional institutions, probation departments, and related agencies.

What can you do with a degree in corrections?

A degree in corrections prepares individuals for careers in criminal justice, including roles such as correctional officer, probation officer, or parole officer. These positions involve supervising offenders, ensuring safety within correctional facilities, and implementing rehabilitation programs, often requiring knowledge of law enforcement procedures and communication skills.

What is the difference between Correctional Science vs Forensic Science?

AspectCorrectional ScienceForensic Science
Required CredentialsCriminal justice degree, correctional certificationsForensic science degree, criminalistics certifications
Work EnvironmentPrisons, correctional facilitiesCrime labs, crime scenes, courts
Employer & IndustryCorrectional institutions, government agenciesLaw enforcement, forensic labs, legal system

Correctional Science focuses on the management and rehabilitation of offenders within correctional facilities, emphasizing security and inmate programs. Forensic Science involves analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes to support criminal investigations. While both fields relate to the criminal justice system, Correctional Science centers on inmate management, whereas Forensic Science is about evidence analysis. Professionals often share similar educational backgrounds but work in different environments and roles.

What is the highest paying job in corrections?

In correctional science, senior roles such as Correctional Administrator or Director of Corrections tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, overseeing prison operations and policy implementation.

What degree is best for correctional officers?

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to become a correctional officer, but an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities. Relevant skills include knowledge of law enforcement procedures and strong communication abilities. Certifications such as CPR or first aid may also be beneficial.

What can I do with my BS in criminal justice?

A BS in criminal justice can qualify you for roles such as correctional officer, probation officer, or crime analyst. These positions often require knowledge of criminal law, security procedures, and communication skills, and may involve working in correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, or community programs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Correctional Science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Correctional Science often encounter challenges such as managing high-stress situations, ensuring personal safety, and working with individuals who may have complex behavioral or mental health needs. Building strong communication and conflict resolution skills, participating in ongoing training, and fostering teamwork with colleagues are key strategies for addressing these challenges. Additionally, many correctional facilities offer support resources and professional development opportunities to help staff cope with job-related stress and advance in their careers.
More about Correctional Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Correctional Science jobs? Cities with the most Correctional Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Correctional Science jobs? The most popular types of Correctional Science jobs are:
What states have the most Correctional Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Correctional Science jobs include:

$44K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Introduction

This is a promotional examination limited to employees of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. This recruitment will be utilized to fill vacancies within the Department of Corrections, Pre-Release, & Pre-Trial Institutions throughout the State of Maryland.\r\n

GRADE

CORR 0005\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

STATEWIDE\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

This is a position specific recruitment for the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. The resulting eligible list will be used to fill positions in DPSCS Correctional facilities throughout the State of Maryland. Applicants certified to this list will remain eligible for at least one- two years.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School diploma or high school equivalency certificate acceptable to the Maryland State Board of Education as described in the Correctional Training Commission regulation.\r\nExperience: Three years of experience as a Correctional Officer involving the custody and security of adult inmates. \r\nNotes: \r\n1. The above educational requirement is set by the Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Correctional Services Article, Section 8-209. \r\n2. Candidates may substitute additional education at an accredited college or university at the rate of sixty credit hours for one year of the required experience provided that a minimum of 15 credit hours are in the field of criminal justice or related social sciences. \r\n3. Candidates may substitute equivalent State experience in other classifications within the correctional field which involve daily contact with and custody of inmates for the required experience. Qualifying experience must be in a classification where the salary is comparable to that of Correctional Officer II.\r\n4. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience in correctional classifications or correctional specialty codes in the criminal justice field of work equivalent to a Correctional Officer II on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.\r\n

LIMITATIONS ON SELECTION

This is a promotional examination limited to employees of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS).\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

1. Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland. \r\n2. Employees in this classification may be required to operate busses for the transportation of inmates. Employees assigned such duties will be required to acquire a Class B Commercial Driver's License with passenger and air brakes endorsements valid in the State of Maryland. \r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Employees who have not already done so must meet the selection standards required and successfully complete the training prescribed by the Maryland Correctional Training Commission for a correctional officer during their probationary period, (Correctional Services Article, Section 8-209). Selection standards for correctional officer training are listed in detail in the Code of Maryland Regulations Title 12, Subtitle 10, Chapter 01 and include the following: \r\nU.S. Citizenship or Resident Alien status \r\nMust be at least 21 years of age \r\nA completed background investigation \r\nOral interview \r\nPhysical examination. \r\n2. Employees in this classification hired or reinstated on or after July 1, 2016 shall successfully complete the Entrance Level Firearms Training prescribed by the Maryland Correctional Training Commission (Code of Maryland 12.10.04.04 and 12.10.04.05) and demonstrate practical knowledge and proficiency in the safe use and care of firearms on a periodic basis.\r\n3. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in 24 hours a day and, therefore, must provide the employing agency with a telephone number where they can be reached. \r\n4. Employees in this classification are subject to substance abuse testing in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulations 17.04.09, Testing for Illegal Use of Drugs. \r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date.We will not consider information submitted after this date.Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on theeligible (employment) list for at least one- two year.\r\n

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The written examination is designed to measure the candidates' knowledge, skills, and abilities as they relate to the duties of this job classification.\r\n

BENEFITS

As an employee of the State of Maryland, you will have access to outstanding benefits, including: health insurance, dental, and vision plans offered at a low cost.\r\n\r\n\r\nCLICK ON THIS LINK FOR MORE DETAILS: STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n\r\n\r\n Personal Leave - new State employees are awarded six (6) personnel days annually (prorated based on start date)\r\n Annual Leave - ten (10) days of accumulated annual leave per year\r\n Sick Leave - fifteen (15) days of accumulated sick leave per year\r\n Parental Leave - up to sixty (60) days of paid parental leave upon the birth or adoption of a child\r\n Holidays - State employees also celebrate at least twelve (12) holidays per year\r\n Pension - State employees earn credit towards a retirement pension\r\n\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be emailed to Kwanesha.lyle@maryland.gov. Resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu of completing the online or paper application.\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you are submitting additional information, the preferred method is to upload it with your application. All uploaded additional information must be received by the closing date and time. If you are unable to upload, please email the requested information tokwanesha.lyle@maryland.gov referencing the recruitment number in the subject line. Only additional materials that are requested will be accepted for this recruitment.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, HRSD-Recruitment Division at 410-585-3999.\r\n\r\n\r\nNeesha Lyle\r\n\r\n\r\nkwanesha.lyle@maryland.gov\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you are having difficulties with submitting your online application, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at Application.Help@maryland.gov or 410-767-4850.\r\n\r\n\r\nTTY Users: call via Maryland Relay\r\n\r\n\r\nWe thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\n\r\n\r\nPeople with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.\r\n\r\n\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time