Correctional Health Administrator

The United States has the largest population of incarcerated citizens in the world and the 6th highest per-capita incarceration rate. More than two million people live behind bars in local, state, and federal prisons. Each year over $80 billion is spent on corrections services, with a large portion of that total being spent on prisoner healthcare. The budgets of prison healthcare centers, as well as the center and patients, are overseen by the specialized role of correctional health administrators. 

Correctional health administrators perform many of the same duties as healthcare administrators but have the added challenge of doing so within the confines of a prison. Typical duties include setting clinic policies, managing budgets, supervising staff, ensuring patients receive adequate care, maintaining patient records, and developing preventative care programs. In addition to these duties, correctional health administrators must supervise inmates to ensure staff stays safe and prisoners remain incarcerated. 

The path to a career as a correctional health administrator varies. Education in corrections and healthcare management is essential. Professionals typically earn an undergraduate degree in either health sciences or corrections and then pursue a master’s in health administration or a master’s in business administration with an emphasis in healthcare. Those with healthcare management degrees lacking in corrections education may earn a certificate in corrections from numerous programs across the country. 

Here is an overview of what it takes to enter the profession of a correctional health administrator, including the education required, top courses of study, typical responsibilities, and licensure and certification requirements.

There are numerous educational paths to take toward becoming a correctional health administrator. Many professionals in this career complete an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or corrections and then complete a master’s in health administration (MHA). Others simply complete the MHA and then complete a graduate certificate in correctional management or gain the necessary experience through on-the-job training. 

Master’s degree programs that put students on the path toward becoming a correctional health administrator typically require applicants to have already completed a bachelor’s degree. Previous work in healthcare can be a requirement in MHA programs. Applicants are also usually required to submit GRE scores, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and all college transcripts. 

There are no accrediting bodies for correctional health administrator programs. Master of health administration programs, however, are accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). Students pursuing graduate certificates or new degree programs should ensure the university or college they are attending is, at a minimum, regionally accredited, as this ensures a high quality of education. 

Indiana University Northwest – School of Public and Environmental Affairs

Professionals who already have a background in healthcare or have an MHA will find the certificate in correctional management at Indiana University Northwest to be a great stepping stone toward a career as a correctional health administrator. As part of this program, students learn how to work with inmates and gain the leadership skills necessary to be in corrections management. 

As part of this 15-credit program, students must take courses on the criminal justice system, corrections administration, and corrections counseling. Students may also pursue an associate or bachelor’s in criminal justice at IUN. While these degrees alone won’t be enough for a career as a correctional health administrator, they can be critical components when combined with healthcare work experience or an MHA.

• Location: Gary, IN
• Duration: Six months to a year
• Accreditation: Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA)

Arizona State University – Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions (Related Degree)

The bachelor’s in science (BS) in criminology and criminal justice offered at Arizona State University is a great first step in the educational career of a future correctional health administrator. This full four-year degree requires students to take courses in corrections, criminal justice policies, statistical analysis, and the influence of gender, race, and ethnicity on the criminal justice system. 

As part of this program, students may complete internships at over 200 organizations, including the Arizona Department of Corrections. This program is offered as a daytime on-campus option, evening on-campus, or fully online, offering students the flexibility to choose how they will complete their degree. Graduates of this program must pursue further education to work in correctional health management, such as an MHA or an MBA with a concentration in healthcare.

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Duration: Four years
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Drury University (Related Program)

The corrections certificate program at Drury University offers an in-depth exploration of the corrections branch within the criminal justice system. It covers historical and contemporary issues, constitutional and ethical considerations, and aims to prepare future leaders to address institutional and operational challenges. The program requires 18 credits and is open to both students and professionals, such as police officers and first responders, seeking to enhance their credentials. Key courses include ethics in criminal justice, understanding gangs, and correctional law. The certificate is designed to develop leadership skills and promote collaboration across diverse backgrounds.

• Location: Springfield, MO 
• Duration: Six courses
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Saint Martin’s University (Related Program)

Saint Martin’s University offers a healthcare management certificate program for healthcare professionals aiming to advance into managerial roles. The program comprises 15 credit hours, completed through four eight-week classes and a summer practicum. It emphasizes skills in operations management, healthcare policy, and ethical decision-making. 

Students apply classroom knowledge in a supervised practicum with a local healthcare organization. The program prepares students for leadership roles in various healthcare settings, including provider organizations, consulting, government agencies, and more. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 2.75.

• Location: Lacey, WA
• Duration: Three semesters
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Oregon Tech (Related Program)

Students who need to complete an undergraduate degree can earn their bachelor’s of science in healthcare management at Oregon Tech. This program prepares students for diverse roles in the healthcare industry. The program offers three options: administration, clinical, and radiologic science management. Each option is designed to equip students with skills in managing health services, focusing on planning, directing, and coordinating medical services. 

The curriculum includes a capstone project or internship in the senior year. The program is available in Klamath Falls and Portland, and it prepares graduates for roles such as healthcare administrators, clinical analysts, and medical office managers.

• Location: Klamath Falls or Portland, OR 
• Duration: Four years
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities  

University of Oklahoma – Extended Campus

The graduate certificate in corrections management at the University of Oklahoma supplements an education in healthcare to provide professionals with the necessary skills to become correctional health administrators. Graduates have the tools to tackle management problems, ethical decision-making, and staffing issues with ease. Coupled with a degree in healthcare management, students will be ready to manage penal healthcare settings with the utmost confidence. 

Students in this program complete two required courses in penology and ethical decision-making along with electives in gang studies, restorative justice, mental illness, or community justice. The required coursework is typically completed over three semesters. However, students have the flexibility to adjust their course load as they see fit. 

• Location: Norman, OK
• Duration: One year
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Morehouse School of Medicine

The master’s of administration in justice-involved care (MAJIC) program at Morehouse School of Medicine is a 33-credit hour curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the intersection of public health and criminal justice. The program focuses on designing population-based services, addressing policy issues, and developing communication strategies to support justice-impacted individuals. It includes courses on correctional healthcare, health and social justice, and leadership in the criminal justice system, along with practical experiences through a practicum and an integrated learning experience. The program aims to equip students with the skills to reduce recidivism and promote social justice.

• Location: Atlanta, GA
• Duration: Three semesters
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Arizona State University (Related Program)

Arizona State University offers an online graduate certificate in corrections leadership and management designed to prepare students for leadership roles in corrections, including prisons, parole agencies, and probation departments. The program consists of 15 credit hours across five courses, focusing on corrections management, community supervision, and public administration. It aims to equip students with the skills needed to manage correctional populations effectively. The certificate can be paired with ASU’s master’s of arts in criminal justice without additional cost or time. Admission requires a minimum 3.00 GPA and includes submitting transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Duration: Five classes
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Lindenwood University

The corrections administration graduate certificate, offered by Lindenwood University’s College of Science, Technology, and Health, enhances any academic degree by providing the expertise, insights, and abilities needed for professionals aiming to broaden their experience in criminal justice. The certificate requires students to complete 18 credit hours of coursework. 

Classes students must complete include ethics in criminal justice administration, criminal justice leadership: strategies and practice, criminal justice leadership theory, public policy and criminal justice, corrections administration, fundamentals of financial management.

• Location: Saint Charles, MO
• Duration: 18 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

University of Central Florida

The online graduate certificate in corrections leadership from the University of Central Florida prepares students for leadership roles in correctional facilities by equipping them with skills to handle changing regulations, budgets, and inter-governmental projects. The 12-credit hour program covers topics such as the administration of justice, policy analysis, leadership, ethics, and the nature of crime. It is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree. It can be completed entirely online, providing both theoretical and practical knowledge to advance careers in criminal justice, public administration, or social work.

• Location: Orlando, FL
• Duration: 12 credits
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Because of the work experience typically required to work in this field, it takes between seven to ten years (after graduating from high school) to become a correctional health administrator. The timeline varies based on the type of master’s degree obtained and the work experience required.

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)

The first step in this unique healthcare career is to complete high school or obtain a GED, as it is a requirement for most bachelor’s programs. Students who wish to become correctional health administrators should take courses in high school in business, science, health, psychology, and math. Advanced courses can help students improve their chances of college admission and also help them earn college credit prior to graduating from high school. 

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (Four Years)

It is necessary to complete a bachelor’s degree to pursue this career. Students typically complete their undergraduate degrees in criminal justice or a related field. However, students may also choose to strictly pursue health sciences, with the intent to complete corrections studies later on in their education.    

Step 3: Obtain Work Experience (Timeline Varies, Optional)

Many master’s programs require applicants to have work experience. For this career, professionals typically earn a master’s in health administration, which often requires applicants to have one to three years of experience in a healthcare setting.  

Step 4: Complete a Master’s Degree (One to Three Years)

Education in health administration is necessary to become a correctional health administrator. This can be obtained from several master’s degrees, including an MBA with an emphasis in healthcare or an MHA. Further education in corrections, such as a certificate program, may be necessary if the student doesn’t already have an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or a related field. 

Step 5: Pursue a Certificate Program (Optional, One Year)

Professionals who only have education in healthcare, healthcare administration, or a related field may find it necessary to complete a certificate course in corrections management. Numerous programs exist across the country and many of them are online, making the necessary education easy to obtain. 

Step 6: Obtain Certification (Optional, Timeline Varies)

There are two main certifications for healthcare administrators. The first is to become a certified correctional health professional (CCHP) from the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC), which entails both corrections and healthcare. The second is to become a certified correctional officer (CCO) through the American Correctional Association (ACA), which is strictly a certification for corrections. Neither certification is required for employment in this field, although they can be helpful when securing employment. 

Correctional health administrators are responsible for managing the healthcare center that ensures the well-being of inmates. Professionals in this field not only have a strong background in healthcare and management but also have unique training in corrections. Day-to-day duties include:

• Establishing policies for prison hospital and clinic operations
• Supervising a wide variety of staff, from nurses and doctors to custodians and administrative staff
• Setting and managing a budget 
• Supervising inmate conduct while in the prison healthcare system
• Protecting and maintaining the safety of staff and prisoners
• Hiring and supervising staff
• Performing administrative duties such as scheduling and record-keeping
• Maintaining an onsite pharmacy with the assistance of staff
• Consulting with specialists outside of the prison for more complicated cases
• Arranging for patient transport and care should a more specialized facility be necessary
• Developing and implementing preventative care strategies to keep inmates healthy

While it is unnecessary to be licensed to work as a correctional health administrator, professionals in this field may find it advantageous to become a certified correctional health professional (CCHP) from the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC). This certification demonstrates not only an understanding of healthcare but of the unique way it is applied in correctional settings.

To be eligible to sit for the test, applicants must meet the state and federal requirements for their employment position, which often entails meeting the requirements of being a certified correctional officer (CCO) through the American Correctional Association (ACA). After three years of experience as a health service administrator in a prison, professionals may apply to be a certified health service administrator (CHSA) through the ACA.

While there isn’t concrete data on this specialized health career, similar careers can give an idea of what a correctional health administrator will earn. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2023), the 52,280 first-line supervisors of correctional officers in the country made an average annual salary of $76,840 with the following percentiles: 

• 10th percentile: $42,600
• 25th percentile: $53,890
• 50th percentile (median): $70,530
• 75th percentile: $95,870
• 90th percentile: $116,750

Finally, according to the BLS (May 2023), the 515,100 medical and health services managers in the U.S. made an average annual salary of $134,440 with the following percentiles:

• 10th percentile: $67,900
• 25th percentile: $86,080
• 50th percentile (median): $110,680
• 75th percentile: $157,640
• 90th percentile: $216,750

Here are some alternatives to a career as a correctional health administrator. 

Become a Hospital Administrator

Hospital administrators oversee the daily operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring they run smoothly and efficiently. They manage hospital staff, from hiring to performance evaluations, while fostering a productive and supportive work environment. These professionals ensure the facility complies with healthcare laws, regulations, and standards to maintain accreditation and safety.

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) and the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management

Become a Healthcare Compliance Officer

Healthcare compliance officers ensure that healthcare organizations adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards to avoid penalties and maintain ethical practices. They develop and implement comprehensive compliance programs tailored to the organization’s needs and regulatory requirements. Other duties can include conducting regular audits and reviews to identify risks and address potential compliance issues before they escalate. Additionally, they train staff on compliance policies and practices to promote a culture of accountability and awareness throughout the organization.

• Typical Education: Master’s degree in healthcare compliance
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Compliance Certification Board (CCB) of the Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA)

Become a Medical and Health Services Manager

Medical and health services managers oversee the operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring they function efficiently and effectively. They focus on improving service quality and patient outcomes by streamlining workflows and implementing best practices. They are responsible for planning and managing budgets, allocating resources, and maintaining financial stability within the organization. 

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Professional Association of Healthcare Office Management (PAHCOM)

Kimmy Gustafson

Writer

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.