Modern Policing

The Associate of Science in Modern Policing program prepares students for law enforcement careers at local, county, state, and federal levels. Aligned with California’s Assembly Bill 89, it fulfills the educational requirement for peace officers while offering a pathway to four-year universities. The curriculum focuses on community policing, public trust, ethical decision-making, cultural competence, crime prevention, and criminal justice theory. Rooted in the principles of community engagement and public service, the program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to serve communities with integrity, empathy, and a commitment to justice, while meeting the core competencies outlined in California Government Code 1031.4.

Ventura College's POST-certified law enforcement academy graduates about 90-100 cadets per year. Per AB 89, after Nov. 2025, all cadets must obtain an AS in Modern Policing within two years of hire.

• The Modern Policing Associate of Science Degree is designed for students looking to build a strong foundation for a career in law enforcement or a related field. This program emphasizes academic coursework focused on ethical decision-making, cultural awareness, and effective communication. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system while learning how to work with diverse communities, de-escalate conflicts, and uphold the highest professional standards.
• Aligned with the California Assembly Bill 89 and the state’s Vision for Modern Policing, this program equips students to respond effectively to the evolving challenges in law enforcement. Graduates will be prepared for both entry-level employment and further academic pursuits. Upon completion of the degree, students will have acquired the skills necessary to work as professionals who uphold the principles of justice, equality, and integrity in all aspects of law enforcement work.
• Program Learning Outcomes:

  1.  Describe the history, structure, and functions of the American criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections.

  2.  Assess law enforcement interactions with diverse communities using ethical reasoning, cultural competence, and emotional intelligence.

  3.  Analyze contemporary issues, social justice concerns, and the impact of policies on marginalized communities within the criminal justice system.

  4.  Apply professional communication, investigative techniques, and forensic skills in criminal justice settings.

• In response to California Assembly Bill 89 (AB 89) and the evolving demands of modern law enforcement, this Associate of Science in Modern Policing degree ensures that future peace officers are equipped with a well-rounded academic foundation that complements the technical training received in the Police Academy. The program integrates criminal justice theory, ethical decision-making, cultural competency, and critical thinking, aligning with the core competencies outlined in California Government Code 1031.4. As a college that offers a POST-certified law enforcement academy, Ventura College is positioned to provide this degree, fulfilling both a legislative mandate and a workforce need.
• For the degree, students must fulfill the following major requirements, completing a minimum of 60 degree- applicable semester units with a grade point average of at least 2.0. GE Courses are included in required courses and may be eligible for double counting (est 24 units). Prior completion of an accredited Police Academy may allow for Credit for Prior Learning credit (CPL) for up to 12 units.