CRIM — Criminal Justice: Catalog Entries

9 catalog course(s) on file. Undergraduate courses are numbered 100–499; graduate courses 500–699. See the department page for faculty and program information.

CRIM 101 — Introduction to Criminal Justice(3 cr.)

Surveys the structure and function of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Students examine the flow of cases through the system and current policy debates. The course provides a foundation for further study in criminal justice.

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CRIM 110 — Introduction to Criminology(3 cr.)

Introduces major theories explaining the causes of criminal behavior, including biological, psychological, and sociological perspectives. Students evaluate crime data and trends using official statistics. Case studies illustrate the application of criminological theory to policy.

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CRIM 210 — Criminal Law(3 cr.)

Examines the elements of major crimes and defenses recognized under American criminal law. Students analyze appellate court decisions to understand how legal principles are applied. The course develops skill in legal reasoning and case analysis.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 101

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CRIM 230 — Policing in America(3 cr.)

Surveys the history, organization, and practice of policing in the United States. Topics include use of force, community policing, and police accountability. Students examine current debates over policing reform.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 101

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CRIM 250 — Courts and Adjudication(3 cr.)

Examines the structure and function of American courts, including the roles of prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges. Students follow criminal cases through pretrial, trial, and sentencing stages. Guest speakers from the local court system supplement course readings.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 210

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CRIM 310 — Corrections and Rehabilitation(3 cr.)

Surveys the philosophy and practice of corrections, including incarceration, probation, parole, and rehabilitation programming. Students examine current debates over mass incarceration and reentry. Case studies compare correctional approaches across jurisdictions.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 101

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CRIM 330 — Juvenile Justice(3 cr.)

Examines the history and structure of the juvenile justice system and its distinct approach to youth offending. Topics include risk factors for delinquency and evidence-based prevention programs. Students consider ongoing debates over transferring juveniles to adult court.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 110

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CRIM 360 — Criminal Investigation and Evidence(3 cr.)

Introduces the principles and techniques of criminal investigation, including crime scene processing and evidence collection. Students examine rules governing the admissibility of evidence in court. Case studies illustrate the investigative process from report to prosecution.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 210

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CRIM 495 — Senior Seminar in Criminal Justice(3 cr.)

Requires students to complete an original research project on a current issue in criminal justice policy or practice. Weekly seminar discussion critiques research in progress. The course serves as the capstone for the criminal justice major.

Prerequisite(s): CRIM 310

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