Program Code: 7705
The Correctional Officer basic recruit training program prepares students for a career in corrections. Correctional officers oversee the custody of those who have been accused or convicted of crimes. For those seeking dual certifications, the Institute of Public Safety also offers a correctional officer to law enforcement officer certification.
The correctional officer academy at the Institute of Public Safety is fast-paced and highly structured, consisting of a curriculum developed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The program is 420 contact hours taught by instructors with real-world experience to students outfitted with uniforms and equipment currently worn by correctional officers. Using these aids greatly enhances mental and physical cognition through scenario-based training as students prepare for their new profession.
The program is presented in one of the most innovative and high-tech facilities in the nation and covers a broad range of academic and hands-on training that qualifies students to take the state certification exam from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC).
Admission Requirements
Requirements for admissions into the Correctional Officer (CO) program are established by Santa Fe College Institute of Public Safety in accordance with Florida Statute 943.13, Florida Administrative Code 11B-27, 11B-35, and include:
- Must pass the FDLE Criminal Justice Basic Abilities Test (CJBAT)
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must be a high school graduate or equivalent
- Cannot be convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement, including a plea of nolo contender
- Cannot have received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States
- Must have fingerprints on file with the program
- Must pass a physical examination performed by a licensed physician, physician’s assistant, or licensed advanced registered nurse practitioner
- Must be of good moral character
- Must submit to controlled substance testing