Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies (JSSHRS)

Postsecondary Education Programs Among Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Adults: A Systematic Review of Recidivism and Reentry Outcomes

Akomeah, Felix Ohemeng

20 July 2026 · Vol. 2, Issue 7, pp. 1261-1273

DOI: 10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E7/2026-29

Abstract

High rates of reoffending mean that release from prison often marks the beginning of a renewed cycle of incarceration rather than a permanent transition to community life. Although evidence on the role of postsecondary education in reducing recidivism has grown substantially since the year 2000, existing reviews paid limited attention to the mechanisms through which education may influence desistance. This systematic review synthesizes empirical research examining the relationship between postsecondary education programs and recidivism among incarcerated and formerly incarcerated adults. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the review searched various databases to obtain fifteen studies. These sources that met the inclusion criteria were synthesized narratively. Overall, the evidence suggests that participation in postsecondary education is associated with lower rates of recidivism. However, the strength of this relationship diminished as methodological rigor increased. The most consistent benefits were observed among individuals engaged in college-level education and those who completed a credential rather than merely enrolled in a program. Despite its effects, postsecondary education remains one of the few correctional interventions that continues to receive support under rigorous evaluation. As access to educational opportunities expands, policymakers and practitioners should invest in program designs that address selection bias and other methodological challenges.

Keywords: Correctional Education, Recidivism, Incarcerated Adults, Criminal Justice, Prison Education

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Akomeah, & Felix Ohemeng (2026). Postsecondary Education Programs Among Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Adults: A Systematic Review of Recidivism and Reentry Outcomes. Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies, 2(7), 1261-1273. https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E7/2026-29

@article{Akomeah2026,
  title   = {Postsecondary Education Programs Among Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Adults: A Systematic Review of Recidivism and Reentry Outcomes},
  author  = {Akomeah and Felix Ohemeng},
  journal = {Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies},
  year    = {2026},
  volume  = {2},
  number  = {7},
  pages   = {1261-1273},
  doi     = {10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E7/2026-29},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E7/2026-29}
}

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