Criminal Justice Studies

An introduction to the basic skills necessary in conducting empirical research in the social sciences. Topics covered will include the logic of science in sociology and the social sciences, literature reviews, design and measurement, use of primary and secondary data, ethical issues in research, and writing research reports. Emphasis is placed on field research and the methods for conducting and analyzing research in various social settings.

This course is designed to increase students’ awareness, knowledge, and understanding of diversity, human rights, and social and economic justice through exploring culture, socialization, power, oppression, privilege, and identity. Students will analyze individual and systemic forces that operate in society to oppress, marginalize, and impact the life experience of groups of humans. During this semester, students will engage in a substantial amount of self-reflection about their own identities while having the opportunity to listen and learn from others’ stories.

This introductory course surveys the American criminal justice system from the underlying philosophies that form the foundation of the system and proceeds through to the release of the offender into the community. The focus of the course will be on five main components of the system: criminal philosophies, criminology, law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. The history, nature, and relationships of the various criminal justice agencies will be examined. Various theories about the causation of crime and its cures will also be explored.

Includes instruction in general investigative responsibilities and techniques, including administration, preparation, investigative jurisdiction and responsibility, and the importance of substantive report writing. Students will be introduced to crime scene investigation-- its purpose and use.

A comprehensive introduction to criminal law and accompanying procedure in the criminal justice system. The course covers common law and statutory elements of crime, including crimes against persons, property crimes, public morality offenses, and defenses to crime. A concise look at criminal procedure and the criminal court system is also provided.

A study of the history and practice of probation, parole, community-based corrections, and detention facilities. Also included is a history and analysis of major correctional systems.

An analysis of the functions, problems, history, procedures, and structure of policing administrations, also including the politics of law enforcement.

An examination of the causation of crime and delinquency. Classical, biological, psychological, and sociological theories of crime causation will be explored, as well as violent, property, white-collar, organized, and public order crimes. An examination will also be made of the extent and measurement of crime, delinquency, and victimization.

An examination of the nature, causes, and extent of juvenile delinquency. The course also explores the various segments of the juvenile justice system, including law enforcement, juvenile court, juvenile legal rights, and correction.

An introduction to the structure and practice of homeland security and domestic preparedness. Preparedness and management of local, state, and national emergencies, disasters and threats will be discussed. Content will include emergency preparedness, first responders, personnel management, and incident management.

A supervised practicum that provides the student with experience in an actual police, court, correctional or other criminal justice setting.