officer talking to inmate behind bars

Your path to success

Located in a region with three major correctional facilities – the Volusia County Division of Corrections, Tomoka Correctional Institution, and Flagler County Sheriff's Office correctional facility – Daytona State College offers you the ideal setting to begin your career in corrections. Our School of Emergency Services is a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Certified Training Center, ensuring you receive top-tier training to excel in this field.

Program overview
To become a correctional officer in the State of Florida, you must complete an FDLE approved training academy. At Daytona State College, you'll receive comprehensive training that equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Our program covers all aspects of correctional officer work, preparing you for the challenges and responsibilities of the job.

Your path to certification
1. FDLE Academy training: Engage in rigorous, hands-on training at one of Florida's top Regional Training Centers.
2. State Officer Certification Examination: Upon successfully completing the academy, you will be eligible to take the State Officer Certification Examination. Passing this exam qualifies you for employment as a correctional officer anywhere in Florida.

Correctional officers play a crucial role in maintaining safety and order within correctional facilities. They are responsible for the supervision, care, and rehabilitation of inmates, making this a rewarding career for those committed to public service and community safety.

Join us and make a difference
With Daytona State College's School of Emergency Services, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a fulfilling career as a correctional officer. Our commitment to excellence in training ensures you will be ready to meet the demands of this vital profession.

Take the First Step Today
Enroll in our FDLE Certified Training Center and start your journey toward becoming a certified correctional officer. Your future in corrections begins here, with the support and expertise of Daytona State College.

Program Information

Interested in becoming a Correctional Officer? View the minimum requirements, course description, and tuition below.

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  • Minimum Requirements

    Requirements to be employed as an Officer in Florida

    Below are the minimum requirements as per Florida State Statute, Florida Administrative Code and Daytona State College Criminal Justice Training Center.

    • Be at least 19 years of age for law enforcement and correctional probation.

    • Be at least 18 years of age for corrections.

    • Be a citizen of the United States.

    • Have earned a high school graduate or equivalent (GED). (A bachelor’s degree is required for correctional probation officers.)

    • Have not been convicted of any felony or of any misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement.

    • Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to, or is found guilty of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement, shall not be eligible for employment or appointment as an officer, not-withstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication.

    • Have never received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States.

    • Have good moral character.

    • Have passed a Commission approved Basic Abilities Test, if not certified and attending a Florida Basic Recruit Training Program.  A BAT is not required for correctional probation. 

    • Have successfully completed the Florida Basic Recruit Training Program for the respective discipline or completed the Equivalency of Training process. 

    • Have achieved a passing score on the State Officer Certification Examination.

    • Have been fingerprinted by the employing agency with prints processed by the FDLE and the FBI.

    • Have successfully passed a background investigation, to include drug testing.

    • Have passed a physical examination by a licensed physician, physician assistant, or certified advanced registered nurse practitioner, to include an EKG and drug screen

    • Currently possess a valid driver's license.

    • Students will be held accountable for the policy and procedures of the Criminal Justice Training Center Program as outlined in the CJTC student policy/rule book, as well as the college student handbook.
  • Tuition & Fees

    Correctional Officer Academy Costs

    The length of this program makes it ineligible for federal and state financial aid.

    Approximate Additional Costs

    Program Tuition and Fees*: $1,151
    Access Fee: $16.24 ($1.16 per credit)
    Assessment Fee: $34 (First Semester Only)
    Lab Fees: $292
    FDLE BAT Exam: $40
    Physical Exam: $150 to $250
    Textbooks/Equipment/Uniforms: $800
    Graduation Fee: $10
    State Exam: $100

    *In-state tuition only: out-of-state tuition will be higher.

  • Course Outline

    Correctional Officer Academy Courses

    This program is certified by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission, Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Courses include the following topics:

    Introduction to Corrections
    CJSTC Communications
    Officer Safety
    Facility and Equipment
    Intake and Release
    Supervising in a Correctional Facility
    Supervising Special Populations
    Responding to Incidents and Emergencies
    Officer Wellness and Physical Abilities
    Criminal Justice Defensive Tactics
    CMS Criminal Justice Firearms
    CMS First Aid for Criminal Justice Officers

     

person with hand cuffed behind back

Additional Information about the Correctional Officer Recruit Training Certificate

key dates

January Corrections Academy

Application Deadline December 1

June Corrections Academy

Application Deadline May 1

Contacts