Corrections Academy

The Corrections Academy provides the training you need to pass the Florida Department of Law Enforcement State Certification Examination and become a correctional officer. You can serve in local sheriffs' departments, Florida Department of Corrections facilities and private correctional companies. Our academy is held at our FDLE approved training center and uses the curriculum of the Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC).

SPC partners with Pinellas County Sheriff's Office to Offer Sponsorships (Agency Sponsorship)

Once you complete a thorough background check with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, you could be eligible for a sponsorship opportunity that covers your tuition for this academy through the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. As a detention deputy recruit, you are eligible to receive a salary through the sheriff's office while you complete your training.

Once you successfully complete the academy and receive a passing score on the state exam, you will continue recruit training in high liability functions at the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, where you will have opportunities for special assignments, career development, opportunities for promotion/advancement and excellent salary and benefits.

To get started, visit the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office website and apply for "Deputy Sheriff Recruit - "Detention and Corrections" position. Please note that you must meet certain criteria to be eligible for employment and the academy.

Southeastern Public Safety Institute

Steps to apply to the Correction Academy (Self Sponsorship) 

1. 1. Meet entry requirements
      1. At least 19 years of age
      2. High school diploma or equivalent
      3. Any 30 college credits from a regionally accredited school with a GPA or 2.0 or higher, or
      4. Honorable discharge from active duty in one of the armed services
   2. Complete a background check with the Police Applicant Screening Service (PASS)
      1. Call 727-864-3822 Ext. 1 or email PASS@spcollege.edu
   3. Pass the Florida Basic Abilities Test (BAT) at a Pearson Vue testing site
      1. Register online or call 727-341-4760
   4. Complete academy enrollment paperwork
      1. Paperwork will be provided
   5. Meet with academy coodinator for Pre-Academy Interview
      1. Information will be provided
   6. Complete the required fitness assessment
      1. Instructions will be provided
   7. Register as a new SPC student or complete the Readmission process if needed
      1. A non-refundable fee of $40 applies to new students
   8. Submit official transcripts to the college
      1. Required for new students

*Note: Federal student aid is not available for this program because it does not meet the minimum requirement of 600 clock hours.

Please email Jamie Ryan for more detailed information regarding this program.