An often overlooked but increasingly important job in the United States criminal justice system is that of probation officer. Aspiring probation officers looking to qualify for in-demand roles in the field may want to consider earning a degree in criminal justice, such as the online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology offered by Arkansas State University. The comprehensive curriculum in this flexible online program helps professionals develop essential skills for future success as probation officers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (BLS), the U.S. had approximately 3.8 million adults under community supervision as of 2023. Such a large number of individuals on probation or parole requires a workforce capable of properly supervising them. That’s where probation officers come in. The BLS projects a job growth rate of 3% in the sector through 2034, signaling strong opportunities for professionals with specialized education and training in this important field.
What Is a Probation Officer?
While you may be familiar with the idea of parole and probation, you might be less familiar with the responsibilities of those who monitor people under community supervision. According to Indeed, a probation officer “is an important part of rehabilitating offenders back into society.” More specifically, this criminal justice practitioner can be defined as “a law enforcement professional who supervises an individual who the court has sentenced to serve probation.”
Probation officers are typically employed by state or federal governments, and they often require a degree in a field like criminal justice or a related field, according to Indeed. For example,
Arkansas hires community supervision officers (another name for probation officers) to work for its Division of Correction. Likewise, the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services workforce relies on probation officers to supervise individuals and serve as the eyes and ears of federal courts in order to help offenders with reentry and protect public safety.
What Is the Job Outlook for Probation Officers?
Salaries for probation officers can vary depending on jurisdiction, but the BLS states that the median annual wage for probation officers was $64,520 as of May 2024. In Arkansas, the Division of Correction offers both competitive salaries and benefits. Furthermore, more probation officers will be needed in the future across the country.
According to the BLS, “About 7,900 openings for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.”
How Do I Become a Probation Officer?
The first step to becoming a probation officer is to secure a college degree that will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills. According to Indeed, some agencies that employ probation officers may also expect previous relevant work experience. “Aspiring officers may gain relevant experience working in the court system or interning at a probation office,” states Indeed.
However, some hiring agencies may regard higher education as a sufficient replacement for experience. Finally, after undergoing the application and interview process, probation officers can attend a training academy, complete their practical education and achieve proper certification.
Make an Impact With an Online Degree in Criminology From A-State
If you’ve decided that becoming a probation officer is the right career path for you, Arkansas State’s online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program can help you qualify for opportunities in this rewarding, high-growth field. The program’s flexible online format enables you to study at your own pace while gaining specialized knowledge and practical skills.
The course Criminal Evidence and Procedure equips you with the fundamental skills needed to operate as a law enforcement officer, and the course Criminal Justice Systems explores the general functions of individual criminal justice agencies and the duties and responsibilities of the people — such as probation officers — who staff them. This career-defining program positions you to enter a profession that offers competitive salaries, strong job prospects and the opportunity to positively impact the lives of people in your community.
Learn more about Arkansas State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program.