Corrections - Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Certificate

Certificate in Corrections

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Corrections at Fort Hays State University is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the corrections field. This certificate is ideal for those seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in criminal justice, whether as a major or minor or a professional looking to expand their expertise. It offers a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring students are well-prepared for various roles in the corrections sector.

Students will engage in coursework covering key topics such as criminal justice systems, disciplinary practices, and contemporary issues. With 12 credit hours of specialized courses, the curriculum ensures a focused, in-depth exploration of corrections. Flexible learning options are available, including both online and on-campus modalities, to accommodate the diverse needs of our students.

Why pursue a Certificate in Corrections at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Corrections at Fort Hays State University offers a unique and specialized education tailored to those interested in advancing their knowledge and career in the corrections field. This certificate focuses specifically on corrections, providing a deeper and more practical understanding of this critical sector. Importantly, the certificate complements students' degree programs, ensuring they acquire skills directly applicable to correctional settings. This specialization enhances their career prospects and professional capabilities.

Furthermore, FHSU provides flexible learning options, including both online and on-campus courses, catering to the diverse needs of our students. This flexibility allows working professionals and students with other commitments to pursue their education without compromising their schedules. Our curriculum is designed to integrate real-world applications, preparing students to meet the current demands and challenges in the corrections field. With access to experienced faculty and hands-on learning opportunities, students are well-equipped to excel in their careers.

Who is this certificate for?

The Certificate in Corrections at Fort Hays State University is designed to meet the needs of diverse students and professionals interested in advancing their knowledge and careers in the corrections field. This certificate is ideal for:

Criminal justice majors seeking specialized knowledge in corrections
Criminal justice minors looking to enhance their qualifications
Working professionals aiming for career advancement in the corrections field
Individuals with a strong interest in the criminal justice system
Non-majors who want to gain a focused understanding of corrections

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Corrections at Fort Hays State University is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in corrections. This certificate focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of correctional systems, legal frameworks, and inmate management techniques. Upon completion of the certificate, students will be well-prepared to address the challenges and opportunities in the corrections environment.

Comprehensive Understanding of Correctional Systems

Students will gain a thorough knowledge of the structure and functions of correctional systems, including the roles and responsibilities of various correctional institutions. This understanding is essential for effectively navigating and managing correctional facilities and correctional services in the community.

Legal and Ethical Knowledge

The certificate emphasizes the importance of legal frameworks and ethical considerations in corrections. Students will learn about the laws and regulations governing disciplinary practices and the moral dilemmas professionals may face in this field. This knowledge is crucial for making informed and ethical decisions in their careers.

Effective Inmate Management Techniques

Students will develop skills in managing diverse inmate populations, including strategies for maintaining security and order, addressing inmate needs, and promoting rehabilitation. These techniques are vital for creating safe and productive correctional environments.

Rehabilitation and Reentry Strategies

The certificate covers various rehabilitation methods and reentry programs designed to help inmates successfully reintegrate into society. Students will learn how to design and implement effective rehabilitation plans, crucial to reducing recidivism and promoting positive outcomes for offenders in the community.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Corrections at FHSU prepares students for practical, real-world applications in the field of corrections. Through a blend of coursework and hands-on experiences, students thoroughly understand correctional systems, legal frameworks, and inmate management techniques. These practical skills are crucial for navigating the complexities of correctional environments and addressing the unique challenges correctional professionals face.

Internships and applied projects form a core part of the curriculum, allowing students to use their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences provide valuable insights into the daily operations of correctional facilities, enabling students to develop critical problem-solving and decision-making skills. By engaging with current trends and issues in corrections, students are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to their workplaces and advance their careers.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

At Fort Hays State University, the Certificate in Corrections is designed to keep students ahead of the curve by incorporating the latest advancements and trends in the field. Our curriculum is regularly updated to reflect new developments in disciplinary practices, ensuring students are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and skills. This approach enhances the educational experience and prepares students to adapt to the evolving landscape of corrections.

Students are introduced to innovative rehabilitation strategies, technological advancements in correctional facilities, and contemporary issues such as restorative justice and inmate rights. By staying informed about these emerging trends, participants are better positioned to implement effective practices in their professional roles. This forward-thinking approach ensures that our students remain competitive and capable of making significant contributions to the field of corrections.

Hands-on Activities

The Certificate in Corrections at FHSU emphasizes hands-on learning through various experiential activities. Students can participate in internships to gain practical experience in correctional settings. These internships provide a real-world context for the theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom, helping students develop valuable skills and professional networks.

The certificate also includes intensive workshops and simulations focusing on critical areas such as inmate management, crisis intervention, community corrections (probation and parole), and ethical decision-making. These activities build confidence and competence, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to handle the challenges of working in corrections. Combining practical experiences and theoretical knowledge makes our program uniquely effective in preparing students for successful careers.

What You’ll Learn:

Correctional system operations, including correctional facilities and community corrections
Legal frameworks
Inmate management techniques
Rehabilitation strategies
Security procedures

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive courses
Hands-on experiences
Internship and applied project opportunities
Workshops
Experiential learning activities
Discussions on contemporary issues and trends in the corrections field

Courses

The curriculum for the Certificate in Corrections at FHSU consists of 12 credit hours of specialized courses designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the corrections field. Key topics include correctional systems, legal issues, inmate management, and contemporary challenges in corrections. These courses are carefully structured to ensure students gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to their careers.

Students will use various learning methods, including lectures, case studies, and interactive discussions. The certificate also incorporates applied projects and internships, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. This combination of academic rigor and practical application ensures that students are well-equipped to excel in their professional roles in corrections.

CRJ 341: Introduction to Corrections

This course introduces students to the treatment of criminal offenders in the U.S., including sentencing structures, jails, community corrections, probation/parole, prisons, and the duties of correctional personnel.

CRJ 327: Juvenile Justice

In this course, students will survey theoretical and applied approaches to understanding delinquency and the juvenile justice system, examining law enforcement, courts, and correctional methods for managing juveniles.

CRJ 374: Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System

This course explores the intersection of the criminal justice and mental health systems in the U.S., including the significance of mental health reform for shifting persons with mental illness from psychiatric to correctional facilities.

Career Prospects

Those completing the Certificate in Corrections at FHSU are well-prepared for many career opportunities in the corrections field. The curriculum equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various professional roles.

Correctional Officer

Students who complete the certificate can pursue careers as correctional officers responsible for maintaining security and order within correctional facilities. This role involves supervising inmates, enforcing rules, and ensuring the safety of staff and inmates. Correctional officers play a crucial role in the daily operations of prisons and jails, significantly impacting the penitentiary system.

Probation Officer

Another career path for participants is becoming a probation officer. In this role, probation officers supervise offenders placed on probation instead of serving time in prison. They work closely with offenders to ensure they comply with court orders and help them integrate back into the community. This position requires strong communication and interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of probation’s legal and social aspects.

Parole Officer

Students who complete the certificate may also pursue careers as parole officers, supervising offenders released from prison on parole. Parole officers play a critical role in helping parolees transition back into society, ensuring they adhere to the conditions of their release. They work with parolees to develop reentry plans, provide support and resources, and monitor progress to reduce the risk of reoffending.

Case Manager

In the case manager role, students who have completed the certificate work within correctional facilities or community organizations to assist inmates and former inmates with rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. Case managers develop and implement individualized plans that address their clients’ needs, such as employment, housing, and mental health services. This position requires a strong understanding of rehabilitation practices and a compassionate approach to supporting individuals in their reintegration journey.

Correctional Counselor

Correctional counselors provide mental health and counseling services to inmates within correctional facilities. They help inmates address psychological and emotional issues, develop coping strategies, and prepare for life after release. This role is vital in promoting the mental well-being of inmates and supporting their rehabilitation efforts. Correctional counselors need strong interpersonal skills and a background in psychology or counseling.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,369.52* (on-campus) or $3,087.96* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs that complement the Certificate in Corrections, providing additional opportunities for students to expand their knowledge and career prospects. Related programs include:

FAQ

What can I do with a Certificate in Corrections?

The Certificate in Corrections can open doors to career opportunities within the criminal justice system, such as correctional officers, probation officers, parole officers, and correctional counselors. It also enhances your qualifications for roles in rehabilitation and inmate management.

How long does it take to complete the Certificate in Corrections?

The certificate consists of 12 credit hours. Depending on the student's course load and availability, it can be completed in one year. To accommodate different schedules, both full-time and part-time options are available.

Are there any prerequisites to pursue the Certificate in Corrections?

There are no specific prerequisites; however, a background in criminal justice or related fields increases success in the program.

Can I complete the Certificate in Corrections online?

Yes, the Certificate in Corrections is available online and on-campus, providing flexibility for students working or with other commitments. This allows you to complete the certificate at your own pace and according to your schedule.

How does the Certificate in Corrections prepare me for real-world applications?

The certificate integrates practical experiences, such as internships and applied projects, into the curriculum. This hands-on approach ensures you gain practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to correctional settings, enhancing your readiness for professional roles.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Criminal Justice Club:Open to students pursuing a major, minor, or certificate in Criminal Justice, or majoring in Criminalistics, the Criminal Justice Club engages students in career specific opportunities for service, networking, and social activities. The club meets weekly during the academic year, with activities varying by semester based on student interest.
Delta Tau Omega: As a member of the Criminal Justice Club, students can join the FHSU Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega, which allows members to participate in regional and national conferences. Attendance at these conferences includes competitions in written testing, mock crime scene, physical agility, scholarly research posters, the national research paper and scholarship competitions, and others. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in criminal justice coursework to be active in this organization.
Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club encourages research on topics that can improve the community. The club collaborates with the FHSU community and local Hays residents, hosts events for student engagement, and participates in community service projects. The mission is to deepen interest in sociology and its role in understanding society and improving the human condition.
Alpha Kappa Delta: Students majoring in sociology may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the sociology honorary society. The society promotes scholarship and fellowship for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Membership requirements include junior standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, with at least 12 hours of sociology coursework.
Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association exists to allow students to grow their leadership capacity through building relationships, developing skills, and challenging themselves to practice leadership. The association promotes opportunities for students to lead through various events and activities.

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 32 to 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to significant federal financial support, all trainings can be provided at little to no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely.

The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs.

The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities.

The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

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