Criminology

Crime affects us all, either directly or indirectly. When crimes occur, many people are involved: victims, criminals, police officers, detectives, forensic scientists, attorneys, social workers, judges, and taxpayers. In addition, there are the various aspects of the crime to consider: the investigation, arrest, trial, incarceration, and rehabilitation of the offender. This timely and unique course explores the complex causes of crime, the nuances of the investigative process, and individual rights and civil liberties. In addition, this course addresses many topical issues such as juveniles in the criminal justice system, hate crimes, the bystander effect, and policing in the digital age. Students will develop the critical thinking, deductive reasoning, and analytic skills essential to future success in academic classes and beyond. 

Rationale: Students interested in topics related to crime and punishment and/or those interested in a career in law enforcement, social work or the legal profession would find this a good introduction to one of the most important issues in American Society.

The EL version of the course is for nonnative speakers of English. It provides students with supporting in acquiring both content knowledge and English academic language.