Getting a Second Chance with a University Education: Barriers & Opportunities

Abstract

As part of the prisoner reentry process, many formerly incarcerated individualsare choosing to enroll in universities to earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Some cannot immediately begin their studies and must take remedial classes. Oth- ers, because of preparations they have done before release, can start classes on the first day of school. The following paper poses and attempts to answer six interrelated questions connected to excons taking classes at universities, the challenges they encounter, and ways to smooth the process for the universities in general and faculty, staff, administrators, and other students in particular.