For those interested in pursuing as career in the criminal justice field, it is possible to obtain a criminal justice degree online.  In most cases, a criminal justice degree or a bachelor’s degree in social work or psychology is necessary in order to pursue a career as a parole officer, pretrial service officer, or probation officer.  Some employers also require a master’s degree and previous experience in the area of correctional treatment in order to become employed.

In order to become employed as a correctional treatment specialist, it is often necessary to pass a written and oral test, as well as a physical and psychological examination.  Most State and Federal Government positions also require completion of a training program and passing of a certification test.

Most agencies also require applicants to be at least 21 years old in order to become a correctional treatment specialist.  The Federal Government also generally requires applicants to be 37 years old or younger in order to be employed.  In addition, those with a felony criminal record are usually ineligible for employment.