Northcentral University

CORRECTIONAL TREATMENT SPECIALISTS Correctional treatment specialists may be called case managers or correctional counselors in some jurisdictions. Those in this role evaluate inmates and monitor their progress during incarceration. This includes examining the inmate's behavior and history to determine the likelihood that they will commit a crime after release. Their recommendations are then offered to the parole board when an inmate is eligible for release. Correctional treatment specialists also assist in the development of parole and release plans. They may connect the inmate with resources to help them be successful after release, including job placement, housing and substance abuse services. Education: Education requirements vary by jurisdiction. Typically, a bachelor's degree is needed for entry-level positions. A master's degree in areas related to criminal justice, social work or psychology may be necessary for advancement opportunities. Certification through the state or federal government may also be required. POLICE OFFICERS / DETECTIVES Police officers and detectives work for law enforcement agencies. While police officers work for local municipalities, detectives may also work at the federal level. The primary function of a police officer is to protect lives and property, but they also respond to emer- gency calls, observe suspicious activity, collect evidence and testify in court. Some police officers and detectives specialize in specific areas such as narcotics, domestic abuse, homicide or fraud. There may be opportunities to work on special units or task forces based on the needs of the department. Being a police officer is often one step on the path to becoming a detective or holding a leadership position. Education: Education and physical fitness requirements vary by jurisdiction. Police departments and federal law enforcement agencies also maintain their own training programs. A bachelor's degree may not be necessary at the local level, but it is typically required to work at federal agencies. A master's degree may be needed for advance- ment opportunities. Common degrees include, but are not limited to, law enforcement, emer- gency management and criminal justice. POLICE OFFICERS/DETECTIVES Police officers and detectives work for law enforcement agencies. While police officers work for local municipalities, detectives may also work at the federal level. The primary function of a police officer is to protect lives and property, but they also respond to emergency calls, observe suspicious activity, collect evidence and testify in court. Some police officers and detectives specialize in specific areas such as narcotics, domestic abuse, homicide or fraud. There may be opportunities to work on special units or task forces based on the needs of the department. Being a police officer is often one step on the path to becoming a detective or holding a leadership position. Education: Education and physical fitness requirements vary by jurisdiction. Police departments and federal law enforcement agencies also maintain their own training programs. A bachelor's degree may not be necessary at the local level, but it is typically required to work at federal agencies. A master's degree may be needed for advancement opportunities. Common degrees include, but are not limited to, law enforcement, emergency management and criminal justice.

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