Administration of Justice

This degree or certificate is designed to provide a broad-based education in the areas of law enforcement, corrections and the judicial system. The program is appropriate for students seeking employment as a law enforcement officer, correctional officer, probation or parole officer, or as a legal professional such as a paralegal or attorney. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the major components and function of the criminal justice system in America. Students will demonstrate knowledge of criminal laws in California. Students will define ethics in law enforcement and the consequences of unethical behavior. Students must complete all required courses for a total of 30 units. Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this program, students will demonstrate an understanding of concepts in: criminal law, law enforcement procedures, crisis intervention, legal aspects of evidence and forensic science; discuss the aspects of community relations; discuss the techniques used in investigation procedures; and discuss the different aspects of special crimes.

Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor's degree, should meet with an academic and/or transfer counselor to discuss transfer requirements.

To explore major-related career information, click on the Career Profile link. 

Associate of Science Program Map   Certificate Program Map

PREREQUISITE COURSES REQUIRED COURSES FOR CERTIFICATE UNITS
  Required Core Courses
  ADMJ 101 Introduction to the Administration of Justice 3
ADMJ 101 or equivalent ADMJ 103 Concepts of Criminal Law 3
  ADMJ 110 Principles & Procedures of the Justice System 3
ADMJ 118 Juvenile Justice
3
ADMJ 120 Legal Aspects of Evidence 3
  ADMJ 134 Report Writing 3
  Select a minimum of 12 units from the following

ADMJ 107 Community Relations 3
  ADMJ 116 Criminal Investigation 3
   ADMJ 117 Crisis Intervention  3
  ADMJ 129 Special Crimes and Dangerous Drugs 3
   ADMJ 160 Community and the Justice System  3
ADMJ 165 Introduction to Forensic Science 3
  ADMJ 170 Ethics in Law Enforcement
  ADMJ 201 Introduction to Homeland Security 3
  TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED 30
NOTE: ADDITIONAL COURSEWORK MIGHT BE REQUIRED IF PREREQUISITES ARE NOT MET.  SEE A COUNSELOR TO PREPARE A STUDENT EDUCATIONAL PLAN. 
February 2026 GCC CATALOG ADDENDUM Spring 2026
Important Notice: In the event of a discrepancy between the information presented above and the online and/or print versions of the GCC Catalog, please contact a counselor or the office of Admissions and Records. For previous years requirements please see the catalog from that year.