Inmate programming

Our department offers work, education and general programs which vary by facility.

Overview

We have established a comprehensive network of programming. Participation in any program is voluntary, however inmates are strongly encouraged to participate in as many programs as they can. Educational assessments take place upon commitment at MCI Cedar Junction or MCI Framingham. Most of our prisons include full-service general and law libraries staffed by professional librarians.

Additional Resources

Educational programs

  • Adult Basic Education
  • Language Education
  • Pre-G.E.D and G.E.D. prep courses
  • College and Advanced Academics
  • Special Education

You can see a full listing of every program we offer to inmates in our Program Description Booklet.

Work Training Programs

  • Automotive & Auto Body Classes
  • Barber School
  • Building Trades
  • Computer Skills Classes
  • Cosmetology
  • Culinary Arts
  • Horticulture
  • IT Essentials
  • Small Engine Repair
  • Welding

Please refer to the Program Description Booklet for more detailed information on work training programs.

General Programs

  • Religious
  • Recreational
  • Volunteer based
  • Cognitive and behavioral
  • Community partnership based
  • Self-Improvement
  • Vendor Facilitated Core Programming
    • Spectrum Health Services, Inc. (substance abuse and cognitive behavioral programming)
    • Wellpath (sex offender treatment)

Please refer to the Program Description Booklet for more detailed information on general programming.

NEADS Prison PUP Program

NEADS dog in vest

NEADS is a non‐profit service dog organization established to provide hearing, service and assistance dogs for veterans, adults and children. This is a 12 -18 month program utilizing inmate handlers to teach dogs basic obedience and other skills needed to prepare them for future “careers” as service dogs. Following their training with the inmates, the dogs will then learn more advanced service dog skills at the NEADS’ National Assistance Dog Training Campus in Princeton, MA. DOC inmates are able to provide steady training at high levels, under the guidance of NEADS staff, at five prisons throughout the state. For more information, please check out the NEADS Prison PUP Program website at the link below.

Additional Resources

America's VetDogs

America's Vet Dog in vest

America’s VetDogs was created by the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Inc. in 2003. It was created to provide enhanced mobility and renewed independence to veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders with disabilities, allowing them to once again live with pride and self-reliance.  America’s VetDogs specializes in placing highly-skilled service and guide dogs to individuals with physical injuries, PTSD, hearing and vision loss, and seizures. Inmate handlers teach basic obedience and service dog tasks at four DOC prisons. For more information, please visit the America's VetDogs Prison Puppy Program website at the link below.

Additional Resources

Correctional Industries

As the Commonwealth's prison industry program, MassCor offers inmates the opportunity to develop their professional skills and work ethic while providing affordable goods and services. MassCor employs approximately 500 offenders, managing 17 manufacturing operations within seven institutions. Some of the manufacturing includes:

  • Optical
  • Printing
  • Embroidery
  • Janitorial
  • Furniture
  • Clothing

Additional Resources

Pre-Release inmates

Pre-Release inmates may be able to take part in the Work Release Program. This program:

  • Matches an inmate's skills with job opportunities in the community

  • Allows inmates to earn at least minimum wage

  • Gives an inmate work experience to make the employment process easier after release

To participate, an inmate must meet eligibility and be within 18 months of release or parole eligibility.

Contact   for Inmate programming

Phone

DOC offices and divisions located in Milford only

Monday through Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Address

DOC Headquarters
50 Maple Street, Milford, MA 01757

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