Correctional Training Unit

The MPCTC Correctional Training Unit consists of the Correctional Entrance Level Training Program, Correctional Field Training, Correctional In-Service Training, Correctional Firearms Training, DPSCS Certification and Compliance and Parole and Probation Training.

New employees who will have care, custody, and control of incarcerated individuals are required to successfully complete a Correctional Entrance Level Training Program (CELTP) within one year of their hire date. The Correctional Training Unit oversees the operations of four academies throughout Maryland. The training academies are located in Sykesville, Hagerstown, Cumberland and on the Eastern Shore at Wor-Wic Community College. DPSCS personnel operate and train in all of the academies except the Eastern Shore. The Eastern Shore location is operated by Wor-Wic Community College. Each academy provides a 7-week program designed to prepare new hires for their positions. For more information, visit the CELTP website.

A unique aspect of correctional training is the diversity of positions for the employees who work in mandated positions. Mandated means there are standards for hiring and continued employment established in the Correctional Services Article and COMAR. Uniformed new hires of the Department are required to receive 200 hours of field training. A minimum of 80 hours of field training is required for non-uniformed personnel. The Correctional Training Unit oversees field training for these mandated employees.

Mandated employees must attend and successfully complete all the elements of an approved annual in-service program. The Commission requires all uniform and non-uniform mandated employees to successfully complete at least 18 hours of annual in-service. However, the Department requires all employees to attend 40 hours of annual in-service in order to be compliant with standards set by the American Correctional Association and meet all mandated training classes required by the Department.The Firearms training program consists of entry level and in-service training and certification in all Departmental-issued weapons. This training is conducted at the agencies’ four regional ranges: Cumberland, Hagerstown, Jessup, and Eastern Correctional Institution.

The Certification and Compliance segment of the Correctional Training Unit is responsible for ensuring that Correctional Training Commission and American Correctional Association requirements are met by the Department's approximate 6,000 mandated employees.

For more information, please contact mpctcctu.dpscs@maryland.gov, or the Correctional Training personnel listed on the Contact Us page.