Criminal Justice

An examination of causative factors in the development of youthful offenders and the development and philosophy behind treatment and rehabilitative practices are covered. The course also covers legal, procedural, and substantive issues pertaining to the juvenile justice system.

This course is a study of correctional processes and services, standards, personnel and principles of management, allocation of resources, training and staffing, the role of sentencing and work release programs, special programs, and the use of outside contracts.

This course analyzes the constitutional issues in the United States which have direct bearing on the role and policies of criminal justice agencies. Application of these issues as they relate to investigation, arrest, pretrial and appeal will be emphasized.

This course is designed to introduce students to the rights of crime victims and their advocacy in the criminal justice system. The course examines police, courts, advocates, and the media and their relationships with the crime victim. The course will examine the role of victims in the criminal justice process, understand the complexities of victim-offender relationships, and understand how we respond to victims. Specific categories of crime victims are studied, including sexual assault victims, domestic violence, stalking victims, hate crime victims, workplace and school violence victims, and child and elderly victims (Fulfills Social Science elective).

This course examines the history, causes, and consequences of genocide, exploring both recurring patterns and unique circumstances that enable mass violence. Through case studies such as the Holocaust, Cambodia, Armenia, the Balkans, Rwanda, and the Americas, students will analyze political, economic, and social factors that contribute to genocide and look specifically at the role of law enforcement in both its perpetration and prevention. Drawing from history, criminology, sociology, and political science, the course critically assesses international responses, legal frameworks, and reconciliation efforts while incorporating survivor testimonies and perspectives from perpetrators.

Students will also research genocidal events of personal interest, fostering critical engagement with contemporary issues and considerations in genocide prevention. (Fulfills Social Science requirement.)

This course combines the core elements of police operations and community justice, emphasizing the integral relationship between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Students will explore the principles of police organization, administration, and the evolution of community-oriented policing. Key topics include the selection, training, and ethical conduct of officers, as well as the challenges faced in modern policing, such as police deviance, use of force, and interactions with minority communities. The course also examines the public perception of the justice system, the impact of media portrayals, and the importance of fostering positive community relations.

Students will learn the definition and nature of crime, criminal statistics, and a survey of the theories of crime causation. Emphasis is placed on crime patterns and typologies (Fulfills Social Science elective).

This course explores the theories, principles, and practices of effective leadership within law enforcement organizations. Students will examine various leadership styles, strategies, and challenges specific to the law enforcement context. The course emphasizes developing leadership skills to promote organizational effectiveness, manage personnel, foster ethical conduct, and navigate critical incidents and crises in law enforcement agencies.

This course introduces students to the methodological approaches and techniques used in criminal justice research. Students will learn about research design, data collection methods, and analytical techniques commonly employed in the field. The course emphasizes critical thinking and the ability to evaluate research findings objectively. 

This capstone course is the culminating experience for Certificate in Law Enforcement Leadership program students. Students will integrate and apply the knowledge, theories, and skills acquired throughout the program to address real-world leadership challenges and scenarios law enforcement organizations face.