The Big Muddy River Correctional Center at Ina hosted a graduation ceremony on Friday for the first-ever Adler University graduates.
Seven students earned their Bachelor of Arts degrees in Applied Psychology through an educational partnership with Adler University.
Family, IDOC staff, and Adler University faculty and its President all addressed those gathered for the graduation inside the prison’s chapel. The event also featured speeches from graduates who expressed their gratitude to faculty members and staff who assisted with facilitating the program.
There are career opportunities for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology, including community outreach worker, homeless program outreach counselor, behavioral health specialist, psychiatric technician, addictions counselor, social services management, mental health crisis worker, and public health educator, among others.
The program was delivered entirely online, with weekly synchronous sessions promoting engagement and collaboration. Students also participated in a minimum of four face-to-face advising sessions to discuss their career goals and practical applications of their learning.
