Tell me about your post-secondary education and how it relates to your career as a corrections officer.
The interviewer would like a more detailed breakdown of your law enforcement training and any other education related to your career in corrections. This is likely listed on your resume; however, this is an invitation to give a more detailed breakdown. Be sure to highlight any awards, scholarships, or individual accolades that you may have received.
"I have a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Louisville. I am proud to say that I graduated with honors and was even working part-time during those studies."
"I do not have a completed degree; however, I am interested in taking some criminal justice-related coursework via online correspondence this year. I understand that not having a degree will affect my pay grade. For that reason, I plan to earn my Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Investigation over the next few years. This, of course, would be in tandem with working full time."
"I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Criminology eight years ago. I have been working as a correction officer ever since. I feel that my blend of education and experience will provide you the level of expertise that you seek for this position."
If the job announcement says that a particular degree or certification is preferred or required, focus on providing that information to the interviewer. You want to stand out as the best candidate, so be sure to list everything you have done to become a correction officer.
Avoid saying you have a particular degree or took classes in criminal justice if you did not. The interviewer may require you to produce copies of your transcripts or a copy of your degree before offering you the position. If it turns out you were dishonest, the interviewer will disqualify you as a possible candidate.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I went to school to become an electrician. That has no relation with becoming a corrections officer. I do plan on going back to school at some point for criminal justice so that I can beef up my resume more.
Rachelle's Feedback
I believe there are correlations between the education you completed as an electrician and the expectations of you as a corrections officer. I have offered an example below.
"My education is in a skilled trade, which has a significant focus on safety in the workplace. As an electrician, I have to be keenly aware of my surroundings, as I would as a corrections officer. Being an electrician taught me a lot about discipline, seeing a project through to the end, compliance, and memorizing and abiding by regulations."
Anonymous Answer
I do not have a degree, but I am interested in going back to school to earn an associates degree in criminal justice.
Rachelle's Feedback
It's great that you showed a willingness to return to school.
Anonymous Answer
I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminology & Criminal Justice last year. I know about the living conditions and recidivism rate after the inmate got released. And I believe that if somehow I can give people hope, it will eventually motivate them to change to become a better person to provide a positive contribution to the community.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your passion for rehabilitation and change shines through here! It's awesome that you completed this step in your education and that you learned so much.
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