The Certificate of Achievement in Law Enforcement provides POSTcertified basic law enforcement training and satisfies the entry-level training requirement for California peace officers, as specified in Commission Regulation 1005. It prepares students for entry-level peace officer positions in local and state law enforcement agencies. The comprehensive coursework, taught by experienced law enforcement and legal professionals, combines career competencies and technical skills with real-world knowledge. Course topics include leadership, professionalism and ethics, the criminal justice system, community relations, criminal law, investigative report writing, crime scene investigation, forensics, information systems, cultural diversity/ bias and procedural justice.

Candidates must meet state minimums and be at least 20 years of age at application and 21 years of age by academy graduation. Candidates must also be US citizens or have an accepted application for US citizenship in progress. All coursework and training occur at the Alameda County Sheriff’s Regional Training Center. For additional eligibility and program requirements, please visit www.chabotcollege.edu/academics/applied-technologybusiness/admj/alameda-county-sheriffs-academy.php.

Career Opportunities

Upon recommendation by the ADMJ Advisory Board (consisting of industry professionals) the Law Enforcement certificate prepares students for an entry-level career as a Peace Officer in the state of California, Deputy Sheriff, State Trooper, Border Patrol Agent, Fish and Game Warden, as well as a Special jurisdiction Police Officer, including public college and university police forces and public school district police. The certificate also supports careers as criminal investigator, detective, and supervisory positions. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, law enforcement has a projected growth rate of 5% and the median annual salary for a police officer in California is $63,380.

Program Learning Outcomes

- Develop the analytical thinking and professional skills necessary to work as a peace officer, including the application of procedures and techniques of law enforcement, criminal law, patrol procedures, cultural diversity, investigative procedures, report writing, defensive tactics, firearms, leadership, ethics, community policing, police vehicle operations, traffic enforcement, accident investigation, emotional well-being and first aid/CPR.

- Ability to apply to police agencies as a qualified peace officer, having satisfied the requirements set by the Commission on Peace Officer Standard Training for the state of California.

- Identify and apply principles of nutrition, stress, fitness and overall wellness based on a peace officer work schedule.