Apply Today!
Completing your application takes less than 30 minutes! We’ve created an application guide to help you quickly and easily complete the steps to apply and enroll.
For over 40 years, we’ve been preparing students for careers in law enforcement, the courtroom, corrections, and homeland security. Our instructors—experienced professionals from the field—provide hands-on training and real-world insights to help you step into a field with high demand, strong job stability, and opportunities for growth. Whether you're launching a new career, advancing in your current role, or planning to transfer to a CSU through our Associate in Science for Transfer program, we offer the skills, support, and training you need to succeed in criminal justice. Start your journey today!
“I took an ADJUS class as a junior in high school and fell in love with it. For the first time, I felt like I knew what I wanted to do with my life. Merritt set me up for success, and I am very confident in my ability to move forward.” - ADJUS Student transferring to an HBCU
Apply to join the Student Safety Aide Program and earn up to $25 per hour! Gain real-world experience in public safety—patrolling campus grounds, assisting during emergencies, and representing your college at events—all while earning valuable training in First Aid, conflict resolution, and more. If you're 18+, enrolled in 6+ units, and ready to make a difference, apply now and become a trusted first responder on your campus. Your leadership starts here!
View the application form here.
Planning to continue your studies at a California State University and pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a related field? At Merritt, you can complete the required coursework to receive guaranteed admission to a CSU campus, positioning yourself for success in future programs and career opportunities in the field.
Answer the call to serve and protect. Gain the real-world skills and training you need to build safer communities and step into impactful roles like police officer, park ranger, or evidence technician—with confidence and purpose.
Get ready for a career in correctional institutions or community supervision, with an emphasis on rehabilitation and support services. This pathway also builds a solid base for transfer to a four-year university and future roles such as correctional officer or probation counselor.
Step into the world of national security with training in emergency response, disaster planning, and threat assessment. Build a strong foundation for careers in security services, emergency management, or defense agencies.
This 17-week course prepares you for the physical and academic demands of the police academy. You’ll gain hands-on training in areas like fitness, defensive driving, radio procedure, and report writing.
Department Co-Chair
Mildred L. Oliver
Building A-128
moliver@peralta.edu
(510) 436-2546
Department Co-Chair
Linnea Willis
Bldg. S-438
lwillis@peralta.edu
(510) 434-3936
Tanya Ilarde
CE Counseling Office
Building S | Room 438
(510) 434-3938
MCCareerEd@peralta.edu
Marlo Beall
CE Counseling Office
Building S | Room 438
(510) 434-3938
MCCareerEd@peralta.edu
Marisela Carvalho
CE Counseling Office
Building S | Room 438
(510) 434-3938
MCCareerEd@peralta.edu
![]() Mildred L. Oliver Building A-128 moliver@peralta.edu (510) 434-3859 |
![]() Monica Ambalal Bldg. S-438 mambalal@peralta.edu (510) 436-2515 |
![]() Building A-128 Email: ewallace@peralta.edu (510) 434-3859 |
![]() Building A-128 Email: jrjohnson@peralta.edu |
Completing your application takes less than 30 minutes! We’ve created an application guide to help you quickly and easily complete the steps to apply and enroll.