Law Enforcement

Our Police Science Associate in Science Degree provides comprehensive training and education to prepare you for a successful career in law enforcement and public safety. We offer a broad range of courses that cover various topics such as criminal justice, law enforcement operations, crime scene investigations, emergency management, communication skills, and more.

Our Dispatcher Public Safety Basic Course satisfies the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) minimum training requirements for entry-level dispatchers. The course is designed for both employed public safety dispatchers and students interested in entering a career as a public safety dispatcher.

Additionally, we offer a noncredit Certificate of Completion for Application of Transformational Policing. This certificate instructs peace offices and public safety personnel in incorporating and implementing transformational policing into policies and practice.

Our programs and courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors who have extensive backgrounds in law enforcement and public safety. We are committed to providing students with the highest quality education and training to ensure your success in your career.

What is Law Enforcement?

Law enforcement refers to the actions taken by government agencies to enforce laws, maintain public safety, and prevent and investigate criminal activity. Law enforcement agencies can include local police departments, sheriff's offices, state police, federal agencies such as the FBI and the DEA, and many others.

The main goal of law enforcement is to uphold the law, protect citizens and property, and maintain order in society. Law enforcement officers are responsible for enforcing laws, investigating crimes, apprehending suspects, and ensuring public safety. They may also perform other duties such as responding to emergencies, conducting search and rescue operations, and providing community education and outreach.

Law enforcement agencies have the authority to use force, including deadly force, if necessary, to protect citizens and themselves from harm. However, they must also follow strict protocols and guidelines to ensure that their actions are lawful and justified.

Overall, law enforcement plays a critical role in maintaining law and order in society, protecting citizens, and upholding the rule of law.

Is Studying Law Enforcement Right for Me?

Individuals who are best suited for studying law enforcement or pursuing law enforcement careers are those who have a strong sense of justice, integrity, and a desire to serve their community. They should possess a willingness to put themselves in harm's way to protect others and have a strong sense of responsibility towards maintaining the peace and safety of society.

Some of the other qualities that can make a person well-suited for a career in law enforcement include:

• Strong sense of integrity and ethics.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to think critically and solve problems.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and in high-stress situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team.
• Physical fitness and endurance.
• Respect for diversity and cultural sensitivity.
• Attention to detail and ability to follow procedures.
• Interest in criminal justice, law enforcement, and public safety.

Degree, Certificate, and Courses

Police Science Associate of Science

The Police Sciences Associate of Science program guides students toward careers in law enforcement and policing. The Program provides a seamless transition for students who wish to attain the Bachelor's Degree in Police Science. 

Dispatcher Public Safety (Basic) Course

Bakersfield College offers a Dispatcher Public Safety Basic Course that meets the minimum training requirements set by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) and a Police Science Associate in Science Degree.

Application of Transformational Policing Certificate of Completion Noncredit

The Program is designed to instruct public and private personnel, including public safety officers and first responders, the theories, strategies, and methods to be used by peace officers and public safety personnel to incorporate and implement Transformational Policing into policies and practices.

Administration of Justice (ADMJ) courses

Administration of Justice courses present individuals with introductory courses that cover laws and practices, civil rights, citizenship, and more.

Police Science (POLC) Courses

Police Science course give individuals an overall study of crimes, crime motives, investigations, interrogation strategies, and more.

Public Safety Police Academy (PSPA) Courses

PSPA course include an overall study of police operations, California law, Health and Safety codes, verbal and non-verbal communication, criminal justice procedures and more.

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Police Science Careers

Here are some potential careers someone with a Police Science Associate in Science degree can pursue:

• Police Officer: A Police Officer's primary responsibility is to enforce the law and maintain public safety. They may conduct patrols, respond to emergency calls, investigate crimes, and make arrests.
• Correctional Officer: Correctional Officers oversee inmates in correctional facilities, such as prisons and jails. They maintain security and enforce rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.
• Probation Officer: Probation Officers supervise individuals who have been placed on probation, typically after serving a sentence for a crime. They monitor their behavior, ensure they comply with the terms of their probation, and help them reintegrate into society.
• Private Investigator: Private Investigators conduct investigations on behalf of individuals or organizations, often in areas such as fraud, theft, and other illegal activities. They may work for law firms, insurance companies, or private clients.
• Crime Scene Investigator: Crime Scene Investigators collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. They may work for law enforcement agencies, crime labs, or private firms.
• Forensic Science Technician: Forensic Science Technicians analyze physical evidence, such as fingerprints, DNA, and ballistics, to help solve crimes. They typically work for law enforcement agencies or crime labs.
• Security Officer: Security Officers work to maintain the security of a building, property, or event. They may monitor surveillance cameras, check identification, and respond to security breaches.
• Emergency Management Specialist: Emergency Management Specialists develop and implement plans to respond to emergencies and disasters, such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other crises. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms.
• Customs and Border Protection Officer: Customs and Border Protection Officers work to ensure the safety and security of the country's borders. They may inspect cargo and travelers, collect customs duties, and enforce immigration laws.
• Animal Control Officer: Animal Control Officers enforce laws and regulations related to the care and control of animals. They may investigate complaints of animal abuse, impound stray animals, and educate the public about responsible pet ownership.

Academic Department: Public Safety Training

Career & Learning Pathway: Public Safety Training (PST) Pathway