Citizens' Correctional Academy

The application process is currently closed.

Photo of Citizens' Correctional Academy participant with a dog during the dog program tour.

The Tennessee Department of Correction's Citizens' Correctional Academy is a six-week seminar designed to provide local citizens with an in-depth look at corrections and TDOC’s efforts to enhance public safety.  The academy gives Tennesseans a “behind the wall” look at corrections and the work of more than 6,000 dedicated TDOC employees.  Participants learn about TDOC operations and programming, meet with the department’s executive leadership team, and tour facilities.

Sessions are held each Thursday night for six weeks.  All sessions are held in the Nashville area from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and the graduation ceremony is scheduled from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Who can attend?

  • TDOC Citizens' Correctional Academy is open to all Tennessee residents.
  • TDOC employees and their family members are eligible.

What are the requirements?

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • No criminal history other than minor traffic violations.
  • Must be able to attend all six (6) sessions.
  • Must not currently have a family member or loved one incarcerated in TDOC custody or on community supervision.
  • Must complete, sign, and return all required forms, waivers, and agreements.
  • Submit a completed application.

What are the dates for the academy?

  • Thursday, September 12, 2024
  • Thursday, September 19, 2024
  • Thursday, September 26, 2024
  • Thursday, October 3, 2024
  • Thursday, October 10, 2024
  • Thursday, October 17, 2024 (Graduation)

Where will the academy be held?

Sessions will be held at various Middle Tennessee TDOC locations (prisons and offices).  Information about the locations will be provided by email to those approved to attend.


Below we have provided some videos from our past Correctional Citizens' Academy event: