Florida CMS Correctional Basic Recruit Training Program―Technical Certificate

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for entry-level employment as correctional officers. The program is prescribed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC), in accordance with Florida Statutes.

Prerequisite Program Requirements

  • Two months before an academy start date, candidates should have completed all requirements for the academy
  • Candidates may be sponsored by a local corrections or law enforcement agency
  • All candidates must meet entry requirements, which include physical fitness and psychological testing
  • Additional entry requirements are outlined in the application packet
  • Application packets are available at the academy at the time of orientation

Program Code: APP-CO

CJK 0300Introduction to Corrections

1.07 tech. cr. (32 clock hours)

CJK 0305Communications

1.33 tech. cr. (40 clock hours)

CJK 0310Officer Safety

.53 tech. cr. (16 clock hours)

CJK 0315Facility and Equipment

.27 tech. cr. (8 clock hours)

CJK 0320Intake and Release

.60 tech. cr. (18 clock hours)

CJK 0325Supervising in a Correctional Facility

1.33 tech. cr. (40 clock hours)

CJK 0330Supervising Special Populations

.67 tech. cr. (20 clock hours)

CJK 0335Responding to Incidents and Emergencies

.53 tech. cr. (16 clock hours)

CJK 0031CMS First Aid for Criminal Justice Officers

1.33 tech. cr. (40 clock hours)

CJK 0040CMS Criminal Justice Firearms

2.67 tech. cr. (80 clock hours)

CJK 0051CMS Criminal Justice—Defensive Tactics

2.67 tech. cr. (80 clock hours)

CJK 0340Officer Wellness and Physical Abilities

1.00 tech. cr. (30 clock hours)

Total Credit Hours: 14-420

Special Program Requirements

  • CJSTC regulations must be met
  • Students must attend all training sessions, except for absences approved by the training center director or his designee
  • This program is physically and mentally demanding
  • Academy-designated uniforms must be purchased and worn by academy cadets
  • College policies and the Academy Rules and Regulations Manual will be followed strictly
  • An applicant must take the Criminal Justice Basic Abilities Test (CJBAT) and a score of 72 or higher is needed to pass the test. A fee is charged. This test is offered through PHSC Career and Testing Services.
  • A list of required supplies will be given at orientation
  • An academic average of 80 percent or higher is required for all academic tests administered during each course
  • The grade of "pass" is required in all courses requiring the demonstration of proficiency
  • Upon completion of the program, cadets will be eligible to take the state exam to receive provisional certification as a correctional officer