Corrections Concentration in Criminal Justice
A corrections concentration focuses on a defined area within criminal justice. It typically builds on the program core and adds courses that deepen subject knowledge and applied skills.
Quick Answers
What is a corrections concentration in criminal justice?
A corrections concentration is a focused set of courses within a criminal justice program that emphasizes this subject area.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework varies by school, but most programs cover core concepts, applied methods, and domain-specific tools related to corrections.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Criminal Justice Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Correctional systems, rehabilitation, and reentry programs
- Key career: Correctional Officers and Jailers – $57,970 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Related career: Probation Officers – $64,520 median salary (BLS, May 2024)
- Job outlook: Probation Officers +2.6% growth; Correctional Officers -7.8% (2024-2034)
- Degree levels: Available as bachelor’s concentration or graduate specialization
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Criminal Justice Program Guide.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Correctional Systems | Structure and operations of jails, prisons, and community corrections |
| Rehabilitation and Reentry | Evidence-based programs for offender rehabilitation and community reintegration |
| Juvenile Corrections | Juvenile detention, diversion programs, and age-appropriate interventions |
| Correctional Law | Legal rights of incarcerated persons, due process, and institutional liability |
| Community Supervision | Probation, parole, and alternative sentencing practices |
| Crisis Intervention | De-escalation techniques and managing institutional emergencies |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How criminal justice concentrations compare
| Concentration | Key Career | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections | Correctional Officers | $57,970 | -7.8% |
| Courts | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $61,010 | +0.2% |
| Criminology | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $93,580 | -0.7% |
| Forensic Science | Forensic Science Technicians | $67,440 | +12.8% |
| Homeland Security | Information Security Analysts | $124,910 | +28.5% |
| Law Enforcement | Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | $76,290 | +3.1% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024.