Law, Public Policy, and Society

The Associate in Arts in Law, Public Policy, and Society for Transfer (AA-T) degree is designed to provide a seamless pathway for transfer to a CSU in majors such as American Studies, Criminology, Global Intelligence and National Security, International Relations, Philosophy, and related majors in the fields of law and public policy. This interdisciplinary area of emphasis emphasizes the development of communication skills, introduces students to foundations of law and public policy in society, and prepares students for further study in a variety of majors. This degree coursework is good preparation for students who want to attend law school upon completion of a bachelor’s degree. Students who complete more advanced degrees in these areas are preparing for careers in government, politics, and public offices within public and nonprofit organizations or the private sector.

Students who complete an Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University System and priority admission consideration to their local CSU campus or to a program that is deemed similar to their community college major. This priority does not guarantee admission to specific majors or campuses. Students should consult with a counselor for more information on specific university major admission and transfer requirements.

The following are required for all AA-T or AS-T degrees:

• Minimum of 60 CSU transferable semester units
• Minimum grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 in all CSU-transferable coursework
• Satisfactory completion (C or better OR Pass*) of courses used to satisfy major requirements AND courses used to complete the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) requirements

*Some majors may not accept a Pass in place of a letter grade. Consult with a counselor before choosing the P/NP grading option.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Apply skills and knowledge acquired in the curriculum to analyze policy issues and make policy recommendations.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the political institutions and legal processes through which public plans are formulated and implemented.
• Develop and apply strong communication skills in analyses of legal and social issues.

Required Courses for Major