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Corrections

The Corrections program is built on a foundation of sociological and criminological theory, as well as evidence-based practices. Through a combination of academic coursework and experiential learning, the program promotes the values of social justice, respect, and tolerance. We emphasize strategies for working with and improving the lives of a diverse population of justice-involved individuals.

Careers in Corrections

The Corrections major prepares students for careers within the criminal justice system. Professionals in this field promote public safety through evidence-based practices that encourage behavioral change and facilitate community healing following criminal activity.
  • Correctional Officer
  • Case Management
  • Probation Officer
  • Parole Officer
  • Counselor
  • Juvenile Justice

Potential Salary

Median Salary $53,290

The median annual wage for Correctional Officers and Bailiffs in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Corrections Degrees at MSU

Corrections, Bachelor of Science

The Bachelor of Science in Corrections is designed for students seeking specialized careers within court systems or correctional agencies that promote public safety and crime prevention. The program has a core experiential learning component that prepares students for work in the field. 

Corrections, Minor

A minor in Corrections provides a foundational understanding of crime, criminal justice, criminology, and crime prevention and serves as an accompaniment to other social science majors seeking to work in any number of criminal justice agencies. 

group of students discussing the corrections program at MSU

Criminal Justice Learning Community

Connect socially and academically with fellow students interested in Criminal Justice through our Learning Community. Learning Communities bring together students with shared interests to take courses together in their first year, supported by an upper-class peer mentor who aids in campus integration and academic and social success.

female police officer talking with students at career and internship fair

Criminal Justice Career & Internship Fair

The Department of Criminal Justice hosts a Criminal Justice Career and Internship Fair each year with a variety of employers in the criminal justice fields.

Learn More

JOLT: Joint Opportunity to Learn and Strive

JOLT is a one-of-a-kind experiential class for students pursuing a career in Criminal Justice. Co-taught by MSU Criminal Justice faculty and Blue Earth County probation agents, in partnership with the Mankato Family YMCA Brother-Sister Program, this course offers hands-on experience working alongside probation officers, classroom learning from expert faculty, and the chance to mentor local youth in the greater Mankato area.

Field Practice

The Field Practice and Capstone experience is designed to provide students with an opportunity to utilize the knowledge and skills they have learned in classroom work. Students will have opportunities to integrate their classroom work in a professional setting, while focusing on the principles of social justice, respect, support, and belief in the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals.

Department of Criminal Justice

The department prepares students to be ethical and effective members of the criminal justice system by introducing them to the research-based knowledge and practical skills needed to promote public safety, quality of life, and restorative justice in the diverse communities they will serve.  Programs include: Corrections, Criminal Justice and Policing Studies programs.

Criminal Justice Club

The Criminal Justice Club is a social organization for any and all students interested in a future career in the criminal justice field. The club's goal is to build a community for students in the Policing Studies, Criminal Justice, and Corrections programs, enhancing their education with activities and volunteer opportunities that prepare them for their future careers.

Related Programs

professor answering student's criminal justice question

Criminal Justice

The Criminal Justice program is for students who want to serve in one of the governmental or social service organizations tasked with enforcing laws and serving communities by responding to and preventing crime.

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Sociology

The sociology program at Minnesota State, Mankato leads to careers in academic and applied settings including human services, government, business, nonprofit organizations and social action organizations.

Social worker talking with teenager.

Social Work

The Department of Social Work at Minnesota State University, Mankato, offers a nurturing and challenging environment for students committed to social justice and improving lives through a professional social work career. Our accredited BSSW and MSW programs provide students with comprehensive training that includes hands-on experiences in real-world settings, preparing graduates to improve lives and foster change in their communities.

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Policing Studies

The Policing Studies Program is a pre-professional program accredited by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officers Standard and Training (POST) that prepares students to successfully meet the requirements to take the state licensure exam in order to obtain employment as a peace officer in the State of Minnesota.

Department of Corrections

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences