Basic Recruit Training Program for Florida Correctional Officers―Career Certificate

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for entry-level employment as correctional officers. The program is prescribed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC), in accordance with Florida Statutes.

Prerequisite Program Requirements

  • Two months before an academy start date, candidates should have completed all requirements for the academy
  • Candidates may be sponsored by a local corrections or law enforcement agency
  • All candidates must meet entry requirements, which include physical fitness and psychological testing
  • Additional entry requirements are outlined in the application packet
  • Application packets are available at the academy at the time of orientation

Program Code: CC-CO

CJK 0031First Aid for Criminal Justice Officers

1.33 tech. cr. (40 clock hours)

CJK 0306Communication for Correctional Officers

1.07 Technical Credit Hours (32 Clock Hours)

CJK 0327Shift Management and Safety

0.67 Technical Credit Hours (20 Clock Hours)

CJK 0321Intake and Release

0.53 Technical Credit Hours (16 Clock Hours)

CJK 0324Supervision in a Correctional Facility

1.07 Technical Credits (32 Clock Hours)

CJK 0326Supervising Correctional Populations

0.83 Technical Credit Hours (25 Clock Hours)

CJK 0336Incidents and Emergencies in Correctional Facilities

0.67 Technical Credit Hours (20 Credit Hours)

CJK 0301Introduction to Corrections

1.07 Technical Credits (32 Clock Hours)

CJK 0040Criminal Justice Firearms

2.67 tech. cr. (80 clock hours)

CJK 0051Criminal Justice Defensive Tactics

2.67 tech. cr. (80 clock hours)

CJK 0340Officer Wellness and Physical Abilities

1.00 tech. cr. (30 clock hours)

CJK 0355Legal for Correctional Officers

0.73 Technical Credit Hours (22 Clock Hours)

CJK 0111Interviewing and Reporting Writing in Corrections

0.53 Technical Credit Hours (16 Clock Hours)

Total Credit Hours:14.83-445

Total Credit Hours: 14-420

Special Program Requirements

  • CJSTC regulations must be met
  • Students must attend all training sessions, except for absences approved by the training center director or his designee
  • This program is physically and mentally demanding
  • Academy-designated uniforms must be purchased and worn by academy cadets
  • College policies and the Academy Rules and Regulations Manual will be followed strictly
  • An applicant must take the FDLE Basic Abilities Test (BAT) and a score of 70 or higher is needed to pass the test unless exempt. This test is offered through PHSC Testing Services and a fee is charged. Refer to the Basic Skills Requirements for Career Certificate Programs section under Academic Policies for a full list of exemptions and additional details.
  • A list of required supplies will be given at orientation
  • An academic average of 80 percent or higher is required for all academic tests administered during each course
  • The grade of "pass" is required in all courses requiring the demonstration of proficiency
  • Upon completion of the program, cadets will be eligible to take the state exam to receive provisional certification as a correctional officer