There are three continuously open job classifications at the Missouri Department of Corrections. These three positions are Corrections Officer I, Cook II and Probation and Parole Officer I. To become a corrections officer, the individual must possess either a high school diploma or a GED. This would mean the individual completed the equivalent of 12 years of school.
In order to be eligible for a position as a corrections officer in Missouri, an individual would have to have at least two years of work experience (anywhere, not necessarily in the field of corrections). If the individual cannot produce two years of work experience, there is another option. The Department of Corrections will accept earned credit hours toward this work experience. For every 30 hours a person earns from an accredited college, she fulfills the requirement of one year of work experience.
Education requirements to become a corrections officer in Missouri also include firearms certification training. This training is administered by the Department of Corrections; however, it is required before a person is eligible to become a corrections officer.