Criminal Justice Degree

CJ 201. Introduction to Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.

An undergraduate study and overview of the criminal justice system emphasizing the "system," its legal actors and its political constraints. Designed for the beginning student in law enforcement, criminology, corrections, sociology, social welfare, government and pre-law. F,S.

CJ 270. Introduction to Corrections. 3 Credits.

This course describes the corrections system as part of a larger criminal justice system. Students will be introduced to the history and practice of corrections from earlier forms of physical punishment to jail, probation, intermediate sanctions, prisons, parole, and the death penalty. Special topics in the field will also be addressed as appropriate. Prerequisite: CJ 201. F,S.

CJ 352. Criminal Investigation. 3 Credits.

An overview and examination of basic principles and techniques in the criminal investigations procedures and the rules of the law of evidence in criminal court proceedings. Prerequisites: CJ 201, CJ 210, CJ 220, and CJ 270; or Forensic Science major with junior/senior standing. F.

CJ 341. Criminal Law. 3 Credits.

This course covers the fundamentals and foundations of American criminal jurisprudence with an emphasis on common law definitions of crimes and modern requirements for the criminalization of behavior, statutory laws. Prerequisite: CJ 201, CJ 210, CJ 220, and CJ 270; or Forensic Science major; or Legal Studies minor. F.

CJ 350. Correctional Alternatives. 3 Credits.

This course is designed to explore and evaluate intervention strategies developed in the criminal justice system as alternatives to institutional corrections in the sentencing of adjudicated persons. Among these options this course looks for community corrections, parole, house arrest, restitution, community service, and the development of intervention strategies in support of the dispositions. Prerequisites: CJ 201, CJ 210, CJ 220, and CJ 270. S.

CJ 330. Criminological Theory. 3 Credits.

This class will provide an overview of a variety of criminological theories. Attention will be directed toward the study of the major theoretical schools of thought which have influenced the discipline of criminology. The basic goal of this course is to help the student develop an understanding of and appreciation for the insights gained by examining crime and criminals through different theoretical frameworks. Prerequisites: CJ 201, CJ 210, CJ 220, and CJ 270. F,S.