Criminology & Criminal Justice (CCJ)

This course is an in-depth examination of crime and criminality in our society. Criminology examines the causes and types of crime and means by which our society copes with it. Domestic violence, murder, and several other areas of criminology are highlighted. The student will think critically about law and justice, and develop a critical perspective toward social institutions and legal institutions entrusted with crime control.

This course will examine the organization, processes and sub-systems of the criminal justice “system” as practiced in the United States. This course will also acquaint the student with an overview of crime and the criminal through a brief examination of the nature and extent of crime; definitional aspects of crime and criminality; theories of crime and victimization; and an understanding of the criminal law. Critically examine the primary components of the criminal justice system: police, courts, and corrections. Develop an understanding of the roles of the primary practitioners within the system; to examine the role of the victim; and, to understand the issues related to the interactions of players within the system, and the treatment of the offender by the system. Enhance the students' awareness of criminal justice issues in contemporary society.

Principles of management and methods of supervision and evaluation are surveyed. Administration and managerial concepts underlying decision making, policy formation, operational strategies and coordination and control procedures.

In-depth examination of selected topics related to the study of crime and the American Criminal Justice System. Students will critically analyze a number of contemporary issues affecting enforcement, administration, law and corrections within the American social structural framework.

Course examines use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs; emphasizing physiological effects and social aspects relating to control measures, public safety and public policy, including criminal justice. To broaden the knowledge base of the student interested in crime in our contemporary social structure; to explore alternatives for dealing with the problems created by the use/or abuse of mind-altering substances within our society.

This course gives students opportunity to understand the relationship of theory to practice through participation in a service-learning experience. Students are required to complete 20 hours of volunteer work, a service-learning contract, and an oral and written reflection of the experience.