Qualifications
By now, you've probably figured out correctional institution administrators need a boatload of skills to do their job successfully. It seems like you've been paying attention. We like that. So let's talk about what kinds of things a CIA needs to know to run a prison.
It all starts with doing something important you learned in kindergarten. Hand washing? No. Well, yes, but we're actually talking about following instructions. As we said earlier, there are hundreds of rules and regulations designed to care for and protect inmates and staff in a lock-up. Since many CIAs begin their careers before college at small jails, it is important to know and comply with all the rules. Everything that goes on in a correctional facility is documented by staff and audited by the state review board every year.
Let's talk college. Should you major in criminal justice, criminology, or something else? We are thrilled you asked. Criminal justice is a better choice because it is the study of how laws are applied to situations. Criminology is the study of criminal behavior and is more for profiling and investigators.
Four-year criminal justice degrees are available across the nation, from NYU to California State, all for the low, low average price of $6,800 a year (source). There are plenty of accredited online programs, too, which will come in handy if you plan to work in a facility while going to school.
Keep in mind that advanced degrees are becoming more popular in the criminal justice field. As a CIA, you need to have a deep understanding of criminal behavior, how the law applies to the situation, and what techniques will work best with a particular inmate. CIAs also have to understand budgeting, employment law, and facilities maintenance in order to oversee all aspects of running a prison. Maybe take some business classes while you're at college.
It's also a good idea to learn about the racial and ethnic groups that live in the area where you want to work—especially what challenges that they face as a group. This can give you the inside track on getting hired; it will also give you practice with reaching out and understanding the unfamiliar, making you a better boss...and a better person.