Certificate of Achievement (Transcripted): Basic Law Enforcement Academy

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

Students will receive instruction in all areas of criminal justice, as required by P.O.S.T., for entry-level law enforcement officers. This program is offered in cooperation with the Orange County Sheriff's Department. 

1. Develop the knowledge and skills to safely fulfill the duties and responsibilities of California peace officers.

2. Develop the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to emergency situations and legally use force, include the proficient use of firearms.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

2.5 units
CJA 099
Pre-Academy
The course is designed to familiarize students with the duties and responsibilities associated with attending a basic California Peace Officer Standard and Training (POST) police academy. Course instruction will include Drill and Ceremony, Introduction to Report Writing, Academy Protocol, Physical Training, and Program Overview.
  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Students sponsored by California law enforcement agencies must successfully complete required college screening procedures including interview, medical evaluation, and DOJ Livescan. Self-sponsored students must meet all prerequisites before entering the course, and will be responsible for providing their required uniforms and equipment. Students must sign information sharing, student testing, and weapons handling agreements before entering the course. Violations of these agreements may result in immediate removal from the course.

Second Semester

30 units
CJA 099A
Basic Police Academy
Student will receive instruction in all areas of criminal justice, as required by California Peace Officers Standards and Training (CA POST), for entry-level law enforcement officers. This course is offered in partnership with the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
  • Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Students sponsored by California law enforcement agencies must meet P.O.S.T. hiring requirements. Self-sponsored students must successfully complete required college screening procedures including interview, written test, medical evaluation, psychological evaluation, and DOJ livescan. Self-sponsored students' applications will be evaluated and screened by Criminal Justice Academies Director and Academy Fitness Instructor to ensure students are sufficiently prepared. Self-sponsored students must meet all required prerequisites before entering or continuing the course.
  • Prerequisite: CJA 010
  • Prerequisite: CJA 026A
  • Prerequisite: CJA 099