Criminal Justice

An introductory examination of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The course explores the historical development, structure, and function of criminal justice institutions, as well as key concepts such as crime, justice, discretion, and ethics. Emphasis is placed on understanding the interrelationships among system components and contemporary challenges facing the field.

This course examines the role of policing in a democratic society, with a focus on police–community relations, legitimacy, accountability, and public trust. Students explore community-oriented and problem-solving policing strategies, use-of-force issues, and the impact of social, cultural, and organizational factors on police practice.

This course explores the philosophies, goals, and practices of punishment and corrections. Topics include incarceration, community-based sanctions, rehabilitation, reentry, and alternatives to incarceration. Students critically examine correctional policies and their impact on individuals, communities, and public safety.

An analysis of major criminological theories and research related to crime, criminal behavior, and societal responses to crime. The course examines biological, psychological, sociological, and environmental explanations of crime, as well as patterns of crime and victimization. Students apply theory to real-world issues and contemporary crime trends.

An exploration of the nature and extent of crime victimization and its impact on individuals and communities. Topics include victim rights, victim services, trauma-informed responses, and the role of victims within the criminal justice system. The course emphasizes ethical and evidence-based approaches to addressing victim needs.

An examination of the substantive principles of criminal law, including elements of crimes, defenses, and standards of criminal responsibility. The course emphasizes legal reasoning, statutory interpretation, and the application of criminal law to factual scenarios. Attention is given to the balance between individual rights and societal interests.

An examination of the juvenile justice system, its historical development, and its philosophical foundations. The course explores juvenile law, court processes, correctional approaches, and prevention strategies, with attention to developmental considerations and the balance between accountability and rehabilitation.

This course examines the structure and operation of criminal courts, including the roles of judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and other court personnel. Topics include charging decisions, plea bargaining, trial processes, sentencing, and courtroom decision-making. Students analyze how legal, organizational, and discretionary factors influence case outcomes.

This course focuses on constitutional principles that shape criminal justice practice, including due process, search and seizure, interrogation, and the rights of the accused. Students analyze key Supreme Court decisions and their implications for law enforcement, courts, and corrections.

This course explores emerging and alternative approaches to addressing crime and justice-related challenges. Topics include restorative justice, problem-solving courts, diversion programs, reentry initiatives, and technology-driven innovations. Students evaluate the effectiveness, ethical implications, and practical applications of innovative justice strategies.