Penologist

Penology refers to the study of convict rehabilitation or the management of prisons or jails, so penologists will spend their time working in prisons with prisoners.

Many penologists work inside prison facilities, work directly with convicts, and have some responsibility to help rehabilitate them. They are responsible for developing prison management and prisoner treatment strategies, and many penologists develop programs to empower prisoners to solve their problems. Penologists collaborate with criminologists, parole and probation officers, and guards working at the prison.

Most penologists only need to earn a bachelor’s degree in justice administration, criminal justice, or a related major. Studying criminal justice or justice administration, in particular, will provide you with the necessary education to be an effective penologist. While in college, you will learn about the causes of delinquent behavior, different punishments utilized in American prisons, and administrative issues involved with prison management, for example, handling budgets and space issues.

How to become a penologist

Obtain a bachelor’s degree in justice administration, psychology, or criminal justice.
Determine where you want to work and contact the necessary authorities to obtain an internship and additional application information.

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