WHAT DEGREE DO I NEED TO BECOME A PROBATION OFFICER
If you want to become a probation officer, you will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Although some jobs may be available to those with an associate’s degree, most agencies prefer to hire individuals with a bachelor’s degree. In addition to your educational requirements, you will also need to complete a background check and pass a physical examination.
What type of Degree Do I need to become a Probation Officer?
The type of degree that you need to become a probation officer depends on the state in which you want to work. Some states require that probation officers have a bachelor’s degree, while others only require an associate’s degree. Many states also require that probation officers complete a training program before they can begin working.
How long does It take to become a Probation Officer?
It takes a minimum of four years to become a probation officer. The first two years are spent completing an accredited college program, and the remaining two years are spent completing on-the-job training. During the on-the-job training, probation officers must complete a minimum of 1,280 hours of supervised work experience.
What is the job outlook for Probation Officers?
JOB OUTLOOK
The job outlook for probation officers is quite good. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the demand for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is expected to grow by 6% from 2018 to 2028 – about average when compared to other occupations.1
This projected growth is largely due to an increase in the number of people who are on probation or parole. According to the BLS, there were about 4 million people on probation or parole in 2016, and this number is expected to increase to 5 million by 2026.2
In addition to population growth, another factor that will contribute to the demand for probation officers is an aging population of current officers. Many of these professionals are nearing retirement age, so there will need to be replacements hired to take their place.
What are thePros and Cons of being a Probation Officer?
There are both pros and cons to being a probation officer. Some of the benefits include having a stable career with good job security, as well as being able to help people turn their lives around. However, there are some drawbacks as well, such as the potential for dangerous situations and high levels of stress.
The job market for probation officers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual salary for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists was $51,410 in 2015, according to the BLS.
As a probation officer, you would work with offenders who have been sentenced by a judge to probation instead of jail time. You would be responsible for making sure they follow the conditions of their probation, which may include meeting with you regularly, attending counseling or therapy sessions, and completing community service hours. You would also help them find resources they need to get their lives back on track, such as finding a job or getting into drug rehabilitation.
The work can be challenging and rewarding, but it also comes with some risks. Probation officers sometimes deal with violent offenders and may be required to make home visits alone. In addition, the job can be emotionally demanding because you see firsthand how crime affects victims and families.