Get Your Re-Entry Certificate

In response to the overwhelming challenges citizens face attempting to reenter society from prison, Columbia College has created the Professional Certificate for Re-entry Specialists. Currently, the United States incarcerates over two million individuals. Nearly 97% of individuals currently in our jails and prisons will be released back into society. Almost 650,000 people from state and federal judicial systems return to society every year. Also, county and city facilities will release 7 million people every year. There is a societal need for quality re-entry programs.

Individuals working in re-entry programs play a vital role in supporting the returning citizen as they transition back into society. 

It is imperative to not only recognize the challenges of re-entry, but it is also important to learn how to plan strategies to enhance successful re-entry for those returning citizens. Offered jointly by Columbia College and the South Carolina Re-entry Coalition, this online professional development program is for those desiring to improve their knowledge and skills when working with the returning citizen. 

Re-Entry Program Highlights 

  • The Columbia College Certificate program will examine the critical challenges returning citizens face, including employment, housing, mental and physical health, and education. 
  • In addition to reviewing these challenges, the program will introduce participants to concepts and skills for success in re-entry. 
  • The program cost is a one-time-payment of $900.

Join us for a Virtual Information Session on September 18

Modality & Benefits

Our 100% online degrees are top-ranked by U.S. News & World Reports. Finish your degree and advance your career with a degree designed to fit your busy life. 

Start Dates: 

October 21, 2024

  • 6-Week Course
  • One Login Time Per Week
  • 10-Hour Weekly Commitment (varies)
  • Free E-Books

Re-Entry Certificate Curriculum

The 6-module online program provides those who currently work in or desire to work in re-entry with a better understanding of what needs to be considered and developed for success. Participants will gain the knowledge and tools that will help facilitate successful re-entry for those citizens returning to the community from incarceration.

Topics addressed in the certification program will include the overall need for programs aimed at helping the returning citizen and what makes up successful re-entry. We will discuss the importance of collaboration and introduce the many service providers who can aid in the re-entry process. The program will also look at the role of victim impact and personal responsibility for the offender.

Make a Broad Impact

Society feels the impact of the criminal justice system and will also experience the effects of individuals returning from incarceration. Studies show that 97% of those incarcerated will be released back into society at some point in their lives. The numbers support the need for programs and program professionals focusing on the success of the returning citizen. When re-entry fails, it affects the individual, families, public safety and increases the financial burden on cities and communities.

Career Paths

  • Social Work
  • Re-Entry Specialist
Student Experiences

Student Experiences

"People change all the time, and we need to understand that.”

Freddie Jackson

Former SCDC Inmate, Current Advocate for Those Seeking Re-Entry

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