Correctional Studies, Certificate
Explore the operations and reform of correctional systems in this program. You examine how prisons, jails and community-based corrections programs function, learning evidence-based approaches that support rehabilitation, reentry and reduced recidivism.
Quick facts
Locations
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Additional facts
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Certificate description
Correctional Studies undergraduate certificate description
The certificate program in correctional studies introduces you to the key parts of the corrections system, including prisons, jails and community programs. You explore the history, philosophies and current practices of corrections, focusing on strategies that support rehabilitation and reduce reoffending.
Why earn a correctional studies undergraduate certificate at ASU?
This undergraduate certificate focuses specifically on correctional systems and correctional reform, giving you a targeted understanding of how these systems operate and how they can improve. You study evidence-based rehabilitation practices and strategies designed to reduce recidivism, preparing you to contribute to meaningful change in the field. This certificate complements majors across criminal justice, public service and law, providing foundational knowledge of institutional and community corrections as well as the policies and practices that shape outcomes for correctional populations and public safety.
You examine both institutional and community corrections, gaining a comprehensive view of how different correctional environments function and how policies affect individuals and communities. This dual focus helps you understand the full spectrum of correctional practice and the opportunities for reform across settings.
Additional details
You can engage with faculty and research through the Center for Correctional Solutions, which works to enhance the lives of people who live and work in correctional systems through research, education and community engagement. The center's collaborative approach transforms the experience of incarcerated individuals, improves community health and supports your development as a future leader in the field.
Student organizations such as Alpha Phi Sigma, the Criminology and Criminal Justice Club, and the CCJ Graduate Student Committee offer opportunities to connect with peers who share your interests. You can also participate in undergraduate research, building hands-on experience that deepens your understanding of correctional studies.
Courses
This undergraduate certificate includes courses focused on a specialized topic, so you can advance your skills for further professional opportunities. Explore all courses below:
2026-2027 Catalog Year
The certificate requires 15 credit hours. A "C" minimum is required for all courses in the certificate, although students must maintain a 3.00 GPA in the post-baccalaureate certificate program.
| Requirement | Minimum grade | Credit hours |
|---|---|---|
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The certificate requires 15 credit hours taken in residence at ASU, of which 12 are upper division. |
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CRJ 240 Introduction to Corrections
3 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
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C | 3 |
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CRJ 443 Community Corrections
3 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
|
C | 3 |
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CRJ 444 Institutional Corrections
3 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
|
C | 3 |
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Special Topics courses (CRJ 394 and CRJ 494) must be approved by a School of Criminology and Criminal Justice advisor in order to select appropriate topics in the correctional studies certificate program.
6 credit hours
Minimum
grade:C
|
C | 6 |
|
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.
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Lower-division courses such as CRJ 240 (Introduction to Corrections) may be used to satisfy the requirements of any major or a minor at ASU, as well as requirements for the certificate program in correctional studies. No upper-division courses in criminology and criminal justice, however, may be used to satisfy the requirements of the certificate program in correctional studies and either the major or minor in criminology and criminal justice. For example, students majoring or minoring in criminology and criminal justice may not use CRJ 394, CRJ 406, CRJ 411, CRJ 434, CRJ 435, CRJ 443, CRJ 445, CRJ 484, or CRJ 494 to satisfy the requirements of the certificate in correctional studies and either the major or minor in criminology and criminal justice.
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What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Analyze the historical and contemporary trends and operations of community and institutional corrections.
- Apply knowledge of effective strategies for engaging and implementing rehabilitative programming to a variety of correctional populations.
Analyze the historical and contemporary trends and operations of community and institutional corrections. Enrollment requirements
A student pursuing an undergraduate certificate must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at ASU. Undergraduate certificates are not awarded before the completion of an undergraduate degree. A student who already holds an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.
Here are the admission and application details
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimateCareer opportunities
Careers this correctional studies undergraduate certificate prepares you for
Graduates find a strong job market in the public and private sectors. They have a strong foundation for pursuing a career or further study in corrections, law enforcement or community services. Employment opportunities include supervisory and management positions in criminal justice agencies, such as the National Institute of Corrections and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and local and state-level corrections departments.
Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
School of Criminology and Criminal Justice
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UCENT 600
SCCJAdvising@asu.edu
602-496-1658
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
