The purpose of this quantitative causal-comparative study was to determine if and to what extent there was an association between recidivism status and correctional education students participating in academic courses, social courses, and academic and social courses combined during their incarceration. Three theories were the foundation for this study. Loevinger's Theory of Ego Development (ED), All Quadrant/All Level Model, and Self-Determination Theory. The population and sample included three groups of consisting of male offenders, 25-50 year-old recidivists, released in 2007, and recidivism data 2007 through 2012, in Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The offenders' participation in correctional education courses began in 2003 (See Appendices F-W). The methodology for this research was quantitative with a causal-comparative design. Chi-square tests of association were implemented to analyze the data. Results from the stated research showed no significant statistical differences in recidivism status between three groups. This study indicated academic courses, social courses, and academic and social courses do not have a significant effect on recidivism. However, further research is warranted to provide decision-makers with the necessary knowledge to determine optimal correctional educational programs to assist male offenders during their incarceration. Keywords: prisoners, offenders, academic courses, life-skills courses, social courses, programs, quantitative, criminal, correctional education, inmates, recidivism rates, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Windham School District. [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.]