# Administration of Justice (AJ) courses Antelope Valley College · 2026-2027 Catalog · 26 courses Source: https://avc.elumenapp.com/catalog/2026-27/department/administration-of-justice "Offered" lists sections in this catalog year's class schedules: Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027. ### AJ 101 — Introduction to Administration of Justice - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 110 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 7 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 7 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course introduces students to the characteristics of the criminal justice system in the United Sates. Focus is placed on examining crime measurement, theoretical explanations of crime, responses to crime, components of the system, and current challenges to the system. The course examines the evolution of the principles and approaches utilized by the justice system and the evolving forces which have shaped those principles and approaches. Although justice structure and process is examined in a cross-cultural context, emphasis is placed on the US justice system, particularly the structure and function of US police, courts, and corrections. Students are introduced to the origins and development of criminal law, legal process and sentencing, and incarceration policies. ### AJ 102 — Criminal Law - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 120 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 4 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 5 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) An examination of criminal law, both substantive and procedural, as found in the various California State Codes and as interpreted by our courts. The course will cover the origin and development of law, including English Common Law, the U.S. and California Constitutions, California State statutes and Appellate Court decisions. The distinction between torts and crimes, felonies and misdemeanors, and venue and jurisdiction will be examined. Crimes against persons and property and crimes popularly deemed to be victimless will be discussed. ### AJ 103 — Criminal Evidence - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 124 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 4 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 4 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course presents the origin, development, philosophy, and legal basis of evidence; types and ways of presenting evidence; judicial decisions and statutory rules of evidence governing the admissibility of testimony, writings, and material objects at motions and trial; constitutional and procedural considerations affecting searches and seizures and admissions and confessions. ### AJ 104 — Introduction to Corrections - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 200 - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course is designed to help the student develop an understanding of the concepts of criminal parole, probation and the corrections system. Students will examine these areas of criminal justice from a historical, theoretical, and practical viewpoints, to understand how these different types of convicted offender supervisions overlap. Students will also study the political and economic ramifications of juvenile delinquents and their rights of Due Process. This will be discussed along with the special problems these offenders pose, including the issues of public safety and juvenile parole. ### AJ 109 — Crime Analysis - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Advisory:** Completion of AJ 101 - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) An introduction to the field of crime analysis and its role in law enforcement, crime prevention and public safety. Topics will include the history and current functions of crime analysis, along with its changing roles and future applications. Students will explore each of the major types of crime analysis: administrative, strategic, tactical, and investigative. This class is intended for those students who wish to work in a nontraditional role in law enforcement and for sworn personnel who want to have a better understanding how crime analysis can optimize their law enforcement efforts. ### AJ 110 — Terrorism Investigation - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Advisory:** Completion of AJ 101. - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course will examine the phenomenon known as terrorism. A historical perspective will trace its origin from at least the first century through the present times. This course will study the ideologies and philosophies of terrorist groups on both an international as well as national scale. Identification of terrorist groups as well as terrorist tactics will be examined. Emphasis will be on exploring the law enforcement/intelligence methods used to prevent and respond to terrorist-related crimes. ### AJ 111 — Beginning Health and Fitness for First Responders I - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) Introduces the principles of physical fitness and mental health for students preparing for careers in public safety, as well as those training for employment that requires a Physical Ability Test (PAT). This course is designed to enhance the overall fitness level of Administration of Justice Students and introduce them to specific skills required to successfully complete physical agility tests for law enforcement and correctional agencies. The emphasis is on improving both cardiovascular and anaerobic endurance plus muscle strength and endurance. Intense resistance training, anaerobic and cardiovascular workouts are utilized including concepts of wellness, mindfulness, injury prevention, and stress management. Non-Administration of Justice students are also welcome. ### AJ 112 — Intermediate Health and Fitness for First Responders II - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) Applies the principles of physical fitness and mental health for students preparing for careers in public safety, as well as those training for employment that requires a Physical Ability Test (PAT). This course is designed to continue enhancing the overall fitness level of Administration of Justice Students. It assists them in applying the specific skills and principles required to successfully complete physical agility tests for law enforcement and correctional agencies. The emphasis is on continuous improvement of both cardiovascular and anaerobic endurance, muscle strength, and endurance. Intense resistance training with anaerobic and cardiovascular workouts are utilized including concepts of wellness, mindfulness, injury prevention, and stress management. Non-Administration of Justice students are also welcome. ### AJ 113 — Advanced Health and Fitness for First Responders III - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) Direct application of the principles of physical fitness, mental health, and wellness for students to be prepared for careers in public safety, as well as those being assessed by employers that require a Physical Ability Test (PAT). This course is designed to help Administration of Justice Students achieve the overall fitness level expected at the time of employment. The course assists them in applying and maintaining the specific skills and principles required to successfully complete physical agility tests for law enforcement and correctional agencies as well as lifelong fitness goals. The emphasis is on continuous improvement of both cardiovascular and anaerobic endurance plus muscle strength and endurance as well as specific PAT assessments. Intense resistance training, anaerobic and cardiovascular workouts are utilized including concepts of wellness, mindfulness, injury prevention, and stress management. Non-Administration of Justice students are also welcome. ### AJ 130 — Report Writing for Law Enforcement - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course provides students with the foundational and essential written communication skills required in modern policing, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and legal relevance. Emphasis is placed on grammar, sentence structure, and report organization, as well as distinguishing between facts, inferences, and opinions. Students will learn to create accurate and professional crime reports, arrest reports, and search warrants, incorporating key legal elements such as probable cause and Miranda warnings. The course explores writing techniques relevant to law enforcement, including the use of active versus passive voice and first- versus third-person narratives. Students will compare field notes, memos, and formal reports while examining the role of technology—such as Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) and standalone PCs—in report writing. Practical exercises will reinforce the development of clear, concise, and legally sound documentation used in today’s criminal justice system. ### AJ 199 — Work Experience Education - **Units:** 0.5-3 - **Hours:** 162 lab hours - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Limitation on enrollment: To participate in work experience education, students must have a paid or unpaid job or internship and have the approval of a work supervisor and the instructor supervising the work experience in the specific subject area. - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) - May be repeated 3 times (R3) PRIOR TO ENROLLING: Students must also attend a scheduled orientation or meet individually with the supervising instructor for an individual orientation. Work Experience Education is supervised employment designed to provide students with a realistic learning experience through work. The ultimate goal is to teach students those skills and attitudes that will equip them to function and adapt as an employee in a variety of situations and jobs. Work Experience Education is supervised employment extending classroom-based occupational learning at an on-the-job learning station related to the student’s educational major or occupational goal. Credit may be accrued at the rate of half a unit to three units per semester. Students may earn up to a total of fourteen (14) semester credit hours. ### AJ 201 — Modern Policing in Society - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 160 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 3 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course examines the complex, dynamic relationship between communities and the justice system in addressing crime and conflict with an emphasis on the challenges and prospects of administering justice within a diverse multicultural population. Topics may include the consensus and conflicting values in Cultural, Religion, and Law. ### AJ 203 — Narcotics Control - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) History and impact of drugs on society, law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and treatment programs. Students will learn legal classifications for drugs, criminal codes, how drug cases are handled in the judicial system, drug use detection, and drug testing systems. ### AJ 204 — Juvenile Procedures - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 220 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course is an examination of the origin, development, and organization of the Juvenile Justice System as it evolved in the American Justice System. The course explores the theories that focuses on Juvenile Law, courts and processes, and the constitutional protections extended to juveniles administered in the American Justice System. ### AJ 205 — Criminal Investigation - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 140 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 4 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 4 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course is designed to give the student an understanding of the field of criminal investigation. Emphasis will be placed on basic criminal investigative techniques and areas of importance to working police officers in their regular duties. The study of identifying and collecting evidence, development of informants, interview and interrogation techniques, courtroom testimony, and the utilization of scientific laboratory analysis will be covered. In this course, those mistakes made by officers during criminal investigations, which sometimes lead to criminal trial dismissals, will be examined. Insight into the rules of evidence, basic criminal law and the tactics used in criminal prosecutions will also be discussed. ### AJ 206 — Criminology - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** SOCI 160 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 11 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Winter 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/winter-2027/aj.md); Spring 2027, 9 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course is designed to help the student develop an understanding of the nature, organization and consequences of the American criminal justice system. Topics explored include the myths and realities about crime and criminal behavior, definitions of crime and its measurement, and the varieties of criminal behavior. Criminological theories of criminal activity are examined and an effort is made to find relevance and meaning of these theoretical constructs with the actual patterns of criminality. The prison system is examined, including problems of overcrowding and the use of criminal rehabilitation. The role of law enforcement is also explored. Lastly, an examination and evaluation of the changing nature of criminal patterns in America is made with an attempt to ascertain the meaning and implications of these changes for the future of American society. ### AJ 207 — Probation and Parole - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 3 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 3 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course is designed to help the student develop an understanding of the concepts of criminal parole and probation. Students will examine this area of criminal justice from a historical, theoretical, and practical viewpoint, to understand how these different types of convicted offender supervisions overlap. Students will also study the political and economic ramifications of juvenile delinquents and their rights of Due Process. This will be discussed along with the special problems these offenders pose, including the issues of public safety and juvenile parole. ### AJ 208 — Introduction to Forensic Science - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **C-ID:** AJ 150 - **Transfers to:** CSU, UC - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) An introduction to the field of Forensic Science and the integrated role it plays in the detection and conviction of criminal suspects. Topics will include the protection and investigation of crime scenes; the collection analysis, and storage of evidence; and courtroom testimony. Students will explore the different techniques used to identify criminal suspects from the circumstances and facts found at a crime's location. This class is intended for those students who wish to work in a non-traditional role in law enforcement and for those students who wish to have a broader perspective of the criminal investigative process. ### AJ 220 — Leadership and Ethics in Modern Policing - **Units:** 3 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Transfers to:** CSU - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 1 section (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Applies to the associate degree or certificates (AVC) This course is an in-depth analysis of ethics and leadership within the criminal justice system and its various public service organizations. Topics include the history, philosophy, theories, and evolution of leadership, ethics, and professional standards and their impact on employees and the individuals and communities they serve. The critical importance of decision-making and discretion within the criminal justice system and the interplay of values, ethics, morals, and professional standards is emphasized. This course examines the theories of leadership within various institutions, the supervision and leadership interconnections with ethics and professional standards within organizations, the practical aspects of leadership and the reality of obstacles and challenges faced by employees, and the legal and civil ramifications of leadership and professional conduct and standards within criminal justice and public organizations. The course also investigates recent negative national trends and aberrational incidents in criminal justice agencies and studies the future of these organizations. ### AJ 901 — Modern Policing in Society - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Offered:** not on the Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027 schedules - Repeatable an unlimited number of times This course examines the complex, dynamic relationship between communities and the justice system in addressing crime and conflict with an emphasis on the challenges and prospects of administering justice within a diverse multicultural population. Topics may include the consensus and conflicting values in Cultural, Religion, and Law. ### AJ 903 — Narcotics Control in Modern Policing - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Offered:** not on the Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027 schedules - Repeatable an unlimited number of times History and impact of drugs on society, law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and treatment programs. Students will learn legal classifications for drugs, criminal codes, how drug cases are handled in the judicial system, drug use detection, and drug testing systems. ### AJ 909 — Crime Analysis - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Offered:** not on the Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027 schedules - Repeatable an unlimited number of times An introduction to the field of crime analysis and its role in law enforcement, crime prevention, and public safety. Topics will include the history and current functions of crime analysis, along with its changing roles and future applications. Students will explore each of the major types of crime analysis: administrative, strategic, tactical, and investigative. This class is intended for those students who wish to work in a nontraditional role in law enforcement and for sworn personnel who want to have a better understanding of how crime analysis can optimize their law enforcement efforts. ### AJ 911 — Beginning Health and Fitness for First Responders I - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Repeatable an unlimited number of times Introduces the principles of physical fitness and mental health for students preparing for careers in public safety, as well as those training for employment that requires a Physical Ability Test (PAT). This course is designed to enhance the overall fitness level of the Administration of Justice Student and introduce them to specific skills required to successfully complete physical agility tests for law enforcement and correctional agencies. The emphasis is on improving both cardiovascular and anaerobic endurance plus muscle strength and endurance. Intense resistance training, anaerobic and cardiovascular workouts are utilized. Non-Administration of Justice students are also welcome. ### AJ 912 — Intermediate Health and Fitness for First Responders II - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Repeatable an unlimited number of times Applies the principles of physical fitness and mental health for students preparing for careers in public safety, as well as those training for employment that requires a Physical Ability Test (PAT). This course is designed to continue the enhancement of the overall fitness level of Administration of Justice Students and assists them in applying the specific skills and principles required to successfully complete physical agility tests for law enforcement and correctional agencies. The emphasis is on continuous improvement of both cardiovascular and anaerobic endurance plus muscle strength and endurance. Intense resistance training, anaerobic and cardiovascular workouts are utilized. Non-Administration of Justice students are also welcome. ### AJ 913 — Advanced Health and Fitness for First Responders III - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total - **Offered:** Fall 2026, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/fall-2026/aj.md); Spring 2027, 2 sections (/c/antelope-valley-college/schedule/spring-2027/aj.md) - Repeatable an unlimited number of times Direct application of the principles of physical fitness, mental health, and wellness for students to be prepared for careers in public safety, as well as those being assessed by employers that require a Physical Ability Test (PAT). This course is designed to help Administration of Justice Students achieve the overall fitness level expected at the time of employment. The course assists them in applying and maintaining the specific skills and principles required to successfully complete physical agility tests for law enforcement and correctional agencies as well as lifelong fitness goals. The emphasis is on continuous improvement of both cardiovascular and anaerobic endurance plus muscle strength and endurance as well as specific PAT assessments. Intense resistance training, anaerobic and cardiovascular workouts are utilized including mindfulness and self care. Non-Administration of Justice students are also welcome. ### AJ 920 — Leadership and Ethics in Modern Policing - **Units:** 0 - **Hours:** 54 lecture hours, 54 contact hours total - **Offered:** not on the Fall 2026, Winter 2027, Spring 2027 schedules - Repeatable an unlimited number of times This course is an in-depth analysis of ethics and leadership within the criminal justice system and its various public service organizations. Topics include the history, philosophy, theories, and evolution of leadership, ethics, and professional standards and their impact on employees and the individuals and communities they serve. The critical importance of decision-making and discretion within the criminal justice system and the interplay of values, ethics, morals, and professional standards is emphasized. This course examines the theories of leadership within various institutions, the supervision and leadership interconnections with ethics and professional standards within organizations, the practical aspects of leadership and the reality of obstacles and challenges faced by employees, and the legal and civil ramifications of leadership and professional conduct and standards within criminal justice and public organizations. The course also investigates recent negative national trends and aberrational incidents in criminal justice agencies and studies the future of these organizations.