This course introduces students to the characteristics of the criminal justice system in the United States. 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 principals 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. (C-ID AJ 110) (CSU/UC) (AA/AS-4, CSU-D, IGETC-4, Cal-GETC-4)
Recent sections
Fall 2026 · 6 sections
Section
Days & time
Location
Instructor
1976Class #1976-AOJ-110-1976
Days & timeDistance Education/Online WEB (Internet 100%)Aug 24 – Dec 21
LocationDistance Education/Online WEB
InstructorDonelson, S
1976 notes: Section 1976 is a fully online course offered on the internet (WEB) and does not meet on specific days/times. Familiarity with computers, Internet required. For more information, email the instructor. [https://www.gcccd.edu/staffdirectory/search.asp]
1977Class #1977-AOJ-110-1977
Days & timeTuesday, Thursday 9:30 AM - 10:50 AM Bldg 31 128 (Lecture)Aug 24 – Dec 21
LocationBldg 31 128
InstructorLytle, T
1981Class #1981-AOJ-110-1981
Days & timeDistance Education/Online WEB (Internet 100%)Aug 24 – Dec 21
LocationDistance Education/Online WEB
InstructorStewart, M
1981 notes: Section 1981 is a fully online course offered on the internet (WEB) and does not meet on specific days/times. Familiarity with computers, Internet required. For more information, email the instructor. [https://www.gcccd.edu/staffdirectory/search.asp]
2707Class #2707-AOJ-110-2707
Days & timeDistance Education/Online WEB (Internet 100%)Oct 19 – Dec 21
LocationDistance Education/Online WEB
InstructorDonelson, S
2707 notes: Section 2707 is a fully online course offered on the internet (WEB) and does not meet on specific days/times. Familiarity with computers, Internet required. For more information, email the instructor. [https://www.gcccd.edu/staffdirectory/search.asp]
7256Class #7256-AOJ-110-7256
Days & timeTuesday, Thursday 11:55 AM - 1:15 PM Steel Canyon High School SCHS (Lecture)Aug 24 – Dec 18
LocationSteel Canyon High School SCHS
InstructorDougherty, T
7256 notes: This section will be offered at Steele Canyon High School during Period 3 on TTH.
Off-Campus: SCHS-Steele Canyon High School, 12440 Campo Rd., Spring Valley, CA 91978
Open only to SCHS students.
9080Class #9080-AOJ-110-9080
Days & timeMonday, Wednesday 12:30 PM - 1:50 PM Bldg 31 128 (Lecture)Aug 24 – Dec 21