1 answer
Gracelynn
Student
Falls City, Nebraska
1
Question
Asked
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What steps do I need to take in becoming a parole officer?
I have been working at becoming a parole officer but at the moment I am a little stuck on what my next step should be. So far I have been working at completing highschool and I am doing a SENCAP class to ensure that I like the career that I am going into.
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1 answer
Bill Watts
Consultant
40
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Bill’s Answer
Hi Gracelynn!
While job requirements for becoming a parole officer vary among states, most positions require a college degree and a series of tests and training. These can include drug tests and criminal background checks.
If you’re looking to become a parole officer, consider the nature of the position. The life of a parole officer is unique, as it combines social work and law enforcement. Most employers prefer applicants to be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Consider an internship in a correctional facility or courthouse to gain work experience.
Earn a College/Bachelor’s Degree
According to O*Net (https://www.onetonline.org/link/details/21-1092.00), 88% of hired parole officers hold bachelor’s degrees. Employers may prefer candidates with criminal justice bachelor’s degrees, though many parole officers have degrees in social work, psychology, and related fields.
If you’re considering a role as a parole officer, it is in your best interest to work toward a bachelor’s degree. Not all parole officers hold criminal justice degrees, however, and you may work alongside officers with a variety of degrees, from education to communication.
Obtain Certification
Parole officer training programs are state-sponsored and may culminate in a certification exam. Additional certifications are available to those who choose specialized casework, such as domestic abuse or drug and alcohol cases.
Complete Trainee Experience
After completing their training program and passing the certification exam (if applicable), many parole officers must complete trainee experience before being hired on a full-time, permanent basis. New parole officers may work as trainees for up to one year.
I hope this helps!
While job requirements for becoming a parole officer vary among states, most positions require a college degree and a series of tests and training. These can include drug tests and criminal background checks.
If you’re looking to become a parole officer, consider the nature of the position. The life of a parole officer is unique, as it combines social work and law enforcement. Most employers prefer applicants to be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Consider an internship in a correctional facility or courthouse to gain work experience.
Earn a College/Bachelor’s Degree
According to O*Net (https://www.onetonline.org/link/details/21-1092.00), 88% of hired parole officers hold bachelor’s degrees. Employers may prefer candidates with criminal justice bachelor’s degrees, though many parole officers have degrees in social work, psychology, and related fields.
If you’re considering a role as a parole officer, it is in your best interest to work toward a bachelor’s degree. Not all parole officers hold criminal justice degrees, however, and you may work alongside officers with a variety of degrees, from education to communication.
Obtain Certification
Parole officer training programs are state-sponsored and may culminate in a certification exam. Additional certifications are available to those who choose specialized casework, such as domestic abuse or drug and alcohol cases.
Complete Trainee Experience
After completing their training program and passing the certification exam (if applicable), many parole officers must complete trainee experience before being hired on a full-time, permanent basis. New parole officers may work as trainees for up to one year.
I hope this helps!
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Gracelynn