Administration of Justice Certificate of Achievement

Program Overview

The Administration of Justice Program at the College of San Mateo prepares students for careers in the justice field, covering aspects from human issues to justice systems. The two-year program offers a comprehensive curriculum in legal principles, correctional operations, and the US justice system, leading to employment opportunities in criminal justice, law enforcement, corrections, social services, probation, and law sectors. Graduates can pursue an Associate Degree for transfer or direct employment within the justice system.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Administration of Justice Program (AOJ) at the College of San Mateo (CSM) is designed to prepare students for careers in the justice field, educating them on the various aspects of justice administration, ranging from human, social, and moral issues to the intricacies of justice systems. By engaging with faculty experts and interacting with professionals working in the criminal justice domain, students can expect to develop a robust understanding and preparation for pursuing jobs in criminal justice, law enforcement, corrections, social services, probation, and law sectors. Employment prospects in the realm of criminal justice are promising, with diverse opportunities offered by municipal, county, and state agencies in California for suitably qualified individuals with proven abilities for problem-solving, attention to detail, and critical decision-making in unpredictable environments. The duration of the AOJ program is two years and provides a comprehensive curriculum of professional skills in legal principles, correctional operations, and the broader US justice system. While primarily designed with a transfer emphasis, the degree holds value beyond that, facilitating employment or promotion within the justice system. Students anticipating transfer are encouraged to pursue an Associate Degree. It is imperative to schedule a meeting with a CSM counselor to map one’s academic plan and develop an educational framework tailored to one's specific pursuits.

Objectives:

Foster student understanding of the foundational components and goals of the Criminal Justice System, explaining how these components interlink within the team. Impart a solid awareness and critical comprehension of the historical growth and practical applications of the Law in society. Highlight the critical and multifaceted value of cultivating both oral and written communication skills that are essential for working effectively in criminal justice roles at various levels.

Careers:

The Administration of Justice Program offers several employment pathways upon graduating to work: Criminal Justice:

• Encompasses a myriad of roles in agencies safeguarding and serving our communities.

Law Enforcement:

• A traditional route for graduates seeking a hands-on job with patrol duties at the local, state, or federal level.

3. Corrections:

• Opportunities with this sector involve working in settings such as prisons, jails, or probation services, ensuring the safe, humane treatment of individuals in conflict with the law.

Social Services:

• Graduates working within social services can utilize their understanding of justice, criminology, and social factors to advocate for vulnerable populations and implement intervention programs.

Probation:

• Graduates can apply their knowledge and practical skills to supervise offenders placed on probation, facilitating their successful reintegration into society while mitigating risks that could lead to re-offending.

Law:

• With appropriate further preparation, graduates can explore legal pathways as paralegals, legal administrators, or attorneys.
These roles involve providing essential support or legal representation within the court system.