Academics

Excellent, affordable degree programs from a dedicated faculty.

Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice

CRJ 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice 3 s.h.

A survey of the historical and philosophical development of law enforcement, analysis of the court system, the criminal justice process and the constitutional limitations placed upon the criminal justice system. The course emphasizes the interrelationship between these agencies and future trends in law enforcement. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 103 Criminal Law  3 s.h.

A survey of the history and philosophy of criminal law, the scope, purpose, definition and classification of modern criminal law, offenses against the person, property offenses and a discussion of the relationship between the Constitutional rights of the individual and the protection of society. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 105 Principles of Criminal Investigation3 s.h.

An analysis of the nature and purpose of criminal investigation. Discussion includes various methods of investigation, the interview, the interrogation of witnesses and suspects, collection and preservation of evidence, use of informants, techniques of surveillance and special investigation techniques, methods used in police  science laboratory, ballistics, documents, serology, photography and related forensic services. Prerequisite: CRJ 103. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 107 Police-Community Relations 3 s.h.

Survey of the numerous and complex factors involved in the area of human rights. Topics covered include controlling racial prejudice in the community, the role of police as professionals, and examination of prejudice and discrimination and their effects and implications for police in a changing society. The course surveys the history and development of civil rights and liberties. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 112 Introduction to Police Organization & Management 3 s.h.

The principles of administration and management as they apply to law enforcement agencies. A study of police organizational structure, responsibilities, and inter-relationships; an analysis of staff-line relationships and functions within the context of a police environment. Analysis of the functions of specialized units within police organizations, including police planning and research, patrol operations, internal affairs, and public relations. Discussion of the principles of personnel management and supervision, police labor relations, consideration of alternative and comparative models of law enforcement organizations, the elements of organized crime and impact on police operations and management. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 113 Private Sector Issues 3 s.h.

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the legal and historical aspects of private sector police. Special attention will be given to the differences between public and private sector police. Principles and practices related to internal loss prevention will be covered. The legal and ethical responsibilities of private sector police in relation to issues of safety and health. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 121 Introduction to Corrections 3 s.h.

A course designed to expose the student to the history of, and theories behind, various types of correctional programs. The corrections field is comprised of many areas. The course explores the continuum of correctional services, from probation to community corrections to institutional facilities (both the function of the facility and the inmate subculture) to parole. Further, the course addresses basic philosophical issues in corrections and focuses on the relationship between system goals and the needs of society. Hours of class per week: 3.

CJR 123 Probation, Parole and Community Corrections 3 s.h.

This course will engage an examination of Probation, Parole and Community Corrections, using the methodology of the social sciences.  This course will present an overview of the history and philosophical foundations of probation and parole in the United States. There will be a critical examination of the efficacy of probation and parole agencies as extensively utilized tools of the American justice system.  The course will engage a review and evaluation of the continuum of correctional options from probation, through prisons, to parole and community-based re-entry services. An examination of the legal issues in probation and parole will be considered.  Special focus will be applied to the study of the roles of probation and parole officers, along with a review of programs that have been developed for offenders with special needs and public risk mitigation. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 260 Criminal Prosecution Seminar SP 3 s.h.

A practical, realistic, simulated prosecution of a hypothetical criminal case, from investigation through arrest, arraignment, pre-trial hearings, trial and appeal. Students are required to engage in the same discretionary decision-making as practiced by Police, Prosecutors and the Courts. The class prepares documents used in the prosecutorial process, including search warrants and their supporting affidavits, arrest and charging documents, pre-trial motions and answering papers, and basic appellate arguments. Students engage in courtroom testimony and presentation of evidence, through role-playing in simulated hearings.  Prerequisites: CRJ 103, POL 104, CRJ 105, permission of Instructor. Hours of class per week: 3.

CRJ 289 Professional Development Seminar 1 s.h.

This is a capstone course that surveys the current and anticipated opportunities for a career in the Criminal Justice System, through a variety of methods that may include on-site experiences, field surveys, professional publications, speakers and symposiums. Through documented self-assessment, students will identify their educational strengths and weaknesses and determine formal and informal methods for further professional growth and development. Students are expected to investigate and present a professional topic review. Hours of class per week: 1.

CRJ 298-CRJ 299 Criminal Justice Internship 1-4 s.h.

The Criminal Justice Internship serves as a structure for the awarding of credit for prearranged academically applicable work experiences. Students who have satisfactorily completed relevant criminal justice courses may be placed with an approved agency on a part-time basis. Evaluation of the student’s performance is the responsibility of the instructor. A maximum of eight (8) semester hours of credit may be earned by any one student.  Prerequisites: Previous criminal justice relevant coursework, approval of CRJ instructor and the Academic Dean. Hours of class per week: To be determined