Basic Police Academy (AJPS) Certificate of Achievement

Program Overview

The Basic Police Academy (BPA) program at College of San Mateo prepares students for entry-level law enforcement positions by providing fundamental principles, procedures, and techniques. The program satisfies California POST training requirements and covers topics such as criminal law, arrest techniques, firearms, and community policing. Graduates are eligible for positions as regular police officers, reserve police officers, and peace officers. The program emphasizes physical fitness and offers opportunities for internships and networking with local law enforcement agencies.

Program Outline

Extracted Program Information from CSM Catalog 2023-2024

Degree Overview:

The Basic Police Academy (BPA) program at College of San Mateo (CSM) prepares students for entry-level positions in law enforcement by providing them with the fundamental principles, procedures, and techniques associated with the field. This certificate program satisfies the minimum training requirements set by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) for entry-level peace officer positions within the state.

Program Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize crime elements, classifications, and related concepts.
• Discuss the principles and procedures of the criminal justice system.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills for report writing, court testimony, information requests, and interactions with peers, superiors, and the community.
• Demonstrate proficiency in psychomotor skills like vehicle operations, arrest and control techniques, first aid/CPR, firearms, and chemical agents.
• Maintain appropriate physical conditioning and lifestyle choices for a law enforcement career.

Outline:

The BPA program consists of one required core course:

• AJPS 107: Basic Police Academy (22 units) This comprehensive course covers:
• Criminal Law:
Learn about crime elements, classifications, and associated concepts.
• Cultural Diversity: Explore the importance of cultural awareness in law enforcement.
• Report Writing: Develop effective writing skills for crafting investigative reports.
• Arrest and Control Techniques: Master various techniques for safely and effectively apprehending suspects.
• Firearms: Learn the safe handling and operation of firearms.
• Leadership: Develop leadership skills necessary for effectively guiding and motivating colleagues.
• Ethics: Enhance understanding of ethical decision-making in law enforcement.
• Community Policing: Explore strategies for building positive relationships with the community.
• Police Vehicle Operations: Learn how to safely and effectively operate police vehicles.
• First Aid/CPR: Acquire essential first aid and CPR skills.
• Physical Conditioning: Participate in physical training to meet the demands of law enforcement.

Assessment:

The BPA program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Written examinations: Assess knowledge of legal principles, procedures, and concepts.
• Practical exercises: Evaluate proficiency in skills like arrest and control techniques, firearms handling, and first aid/CPR.
• Performance evaluations: Gauge students' ability to apply knowledge and skills in realistic scenarios.
• Written reports: Analyze students' writing skills and ability to document critical information.

Teaching:

The BPA program employs experienced instructors with extensive backgrounds in law enforcement. The program utilizes a blended learning approach that combines:

• Classroom instruction: Interactive lectures and discussions on legal principles and procedures.
• Practical exercises: Hands-on training in arrest and control techniques, firearms handling, and other critical skills.
• Simulations: Realistic scenarios designed to test students' decision-making and response skills.
• Guest speakers: Industry professionals sharing real-world experiences with students.

Careers:

Graduates of the BPA program are eligible to apply for entry-level positions as:

• Regular Police Officer: A full-time law enforcement position responsible for patrolling assigned areas and enforcing laws.
• Reserve Police Officer: A part-time law enforcement position supplementing regular officers in various tasks.
• Peace Officer: A broader classification encompassing various roles within law enforcement agencies.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and certifications necessary to begin a rewarding career in law enforcement.

Other:

• The program emphasizes physical fitness and requires students to pass a physical agility test.
• Graduates of the BPA program may continue their education by pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in Administration of Justice.
• The program has close ties to local law enforcement agencies and provides students with opportunities for internships and networking.