Numerous offenders are incarcerated in the United States. Many of these offenders will eventually be released without receiving any additional education or vocational training. The purpose of this mixed-method research study was to explore the lived experiences of (31) offenders who completed a GED/Vocational correctional education program, compared to those who did not complete a GED/Vocational correctional education program, while incarcerated in a correctional institution in the State of Delaware. The theoretical foundation of this research study was grounded in Banduras Social Learning Theory. The narrative data was extracted from returning citizens perceptions and lived experiences of past education, correctional education, and their perceived impact of adult education and learning programs post-release. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version (21.0). Qualitative data was analyzed using inductive coding processes to categorize the returning citizens perceptions of the impact of adult education and learning programs post-release. According to the findings of the study, participation in and/or completion of a GED/Vocational correctional education program while incarcerated, provided the tools, and supports for returning citizens to successfully transition into society. Program participation and completion provided an opportunity for returning citizens to overcome barriers to employment, education and improve their quality of life. This research study will contribute to social justice and systemic change by providing data to the Department of Corrections and community stakeholders regarding the practicality of adult education and learning programs offered to returning citizens pre-and post-release. [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://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]