Modern Policing-AS

The Modern Policing Degree offers comprehensive multidisciplinary coursework designed for those seeking certification through California Peace Officers Standards (POST). In accordance with California Penal Code Section 13511.1, study of law, criminal justice theories, psychology, sociology, communication studies, ethnic studies, and additional multidisciplinary coursework provides students with the development of critical thinking and emotional intelligence. Officers who complete this degree should effectively possess the following characteristics: A culturally-competent and equity-minded peace officer who demonstrates critical thinking, is an effective communicator, and maintains resiliency throughout their career as a peace officer within the State of California. The Modern Policing Degree is a core requirement in addition to the Basic POST certified academy.

Based on enrollment of students in the module police academy, approximately 44-50 students will enroll fulltime in the Modern Policing Degree each year. This projection is only consideration of those students who attended College of the Siskiyous' Module Police Academy. The potential for enrollment for this program is much higher, because it is a degree requirement throughout the State of California, for every POST certified officer.

California's recent legislative reforms have introduced new requirements for individuals pursuing careers in law enforcement, aligning with the broader goals of occupational readiness, civic education, and lifelong learning. Assembly Bill 89 (AB 89), also known as the Peace Officers Education and Age Conditions for Employment (PEACE) Act, was enacted to enhance public safety by reducing the use of deadly force. The legislation raises the minimum age for employment as a state or local peace officer from 18 to 21, ensuring a more mature and prepared workforce.

The California Legislature has also mandated a Modern Policing degree designed to support occupational advancement, civic responsibility, and lifelong learning within the law enforcement profession. This initiative enhances officer professionalism through evidence-based training, ethical decision-making, and community engagement. By integrating de-escalation strategies, cultural competency, and constitutional policing principles, the program strengthens public trust, mitigates bias, and reinforces officer accountability, aligning with the evolving demands of contemporary law enforcement.

The Modern Policing Degree (MPD), mandated under Section 13511.1 of the California Penal Code, is designed to enhance law enforcement education by integrating coursework in Psychology, History, Ethnic Studies, and Law, ensuring that graduates acquire a comprehensive understanding of the historical, legal, and social dimensions of policing. All courses within the MPD are fully transferable, supporting both career advancement and academic progression, with the program structured as an Associate in Science for Transfer (A.S.-T.), pending submission to the California Chancellor’s Office upon approval. This degree aligns with the College of the Siskiyous' mission, curriculum, and strategic master planning, reinforcing its commitment to workforce development, equity, and public safety. As the college hosts a modular police academy that fulfills the Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) requirements for California peace officers, it is well positioned to implement the MPD and integrate it into its law enforcement training programs. Furthermore, the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges (ASCCC) has strongly recommended that all community colleges offering police academy training incorporate the MPD in accordance with AB 89, ensuring compliance with state mandates while promoting evidence-based policing, ethical decision-making, de-escalation strategies, and strengthened community trust in law enforcement.