Establishing college-degree programs for prison inmates is an evidence-based effective instructional strategy in reducing recidivism. Evaluating academic arenas as a resource to improve behavior and levels of functioning within correctional facilities is a necessary component of inmate academic programs. The purpose of this quantitative, quasi-experimental research design method was to evaluate participation in college-degree programs with regard to its effect on recidivism, rule infractions received during incarceration, institutional adjustment, age, and required contact with the parole agent after release. The quantitative method focused on rigorous management of experimental variables and conditions either by direct control and observation, manipulation, or through randomization. The study was conducted at the California Institution for Women and involved 133 female inmates: 67 participants in postsecondary learning models and 66 nonparticipants. Chi-Square analyses and Mann-Whitney tests were used to determine if a significant relationship existed between the independent and dependent variables. The study's findings revealed a statistically significant difference between participants and nonparticipants in reducing recidivism and lowering the number of rule infractions received during incarceration. Fifteen of the inmates who completed the program and paroled never returned to prison. Age factor was significant as older inmates performed better, reflecting a meaningful purpose and motivation for learning. The results indicated that participation in correctional education programs not only reduces recidivism and disciplinaries received, but also enhances inmates' self-development, self-efficacy, and academic achievement. Implications for further research exist in the development of additional inmate secondary educational degree programs. During a replica of this study, future studies may benefit from larger sample sizes inclusive of both genders, conducting qualitative assessments examining staffs' attitudes and perceptions of these programs, and investigating different aspects of motivational levels for participant success. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]