Program Overview

Jail Officer

Program Overview

The Jail Officer Academy at Madison College prepares students for an entry-level position as a correctional officer. Admission is limited to sworn officers who have been assigned by their department and pre-service students who meet all of the requirements.

Program Details

• Students in the Jail Officer Academy must attend full-time.
• Class hours during the five-week (200 hour) academy are 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday.
• The Department of Justice requires students to attend 100 percent of the training unless excused by the academy director. Excused absences are extremely limited and will only be granted under certain circumstances.
• Upon successful completion of the program, students will be eligible for certification with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board as a jail officer.
• Academy classes may be offered at the Madison College Truax campus.

Curriculum and Experience

• Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the academic year.
• Current and newly admitted program students, go directly to your Degree Progress Report to view:
  • Progress toward your specific requirements
  • Alternative (in lieu of) courses to meet specific requirements

Courses

• Basic Jail Officer Academy - Phase 1 (3 credits)
• Basic Jail Officer Academy - Phase 2 (3 credits)

Admission

• Summer: May 27 - June 27, 2025 (application window March 1 – April 15, 2025)
• Early applications are not accepted.

Admission Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete the Wisconsin Department of Justice Application for Enrollment-Jail Officer Training (DJ-LE-327)
• Complete a criminal history records check
• Complete a satisfactory oral interview
• Not have a suspended or revoked driver's license

Additional Requirements

• Students accepted into the Jail Officer Certification Course must undergo a physical assessment by a Wisconsin-licensed physician.

Related Programs

• Criminal Justice-Law Enforcement 720 Academy
• Criminal Justice Studies

Program Statistics

• 100% of students employed in the industry within a year
• $48K annual salary (median annual wage for correctional officers and jailers)
• Work local: Program graduates work in Wisconsin

Program Details

• Program Number: CERT
• Degree: Certificate
• Area of Study: Law, Protective and Human Services
• Delivery Method: 100% In Person
• Estimated Time to Complete: 6 Credits | Finish in 1 semester
• Estimated Program Cost: $1,116.48

Resources

• Jail Officer Code of Ethics