CJ& 112 - Criminology

Credits: 5
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 55
Lab Hours: 0
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: Examines crime, criminal behavior patterns and the law. Explores crime, its context, and especially its causes. Designed to give students a theoretical, as well as practical, knowledge of criminology. Familiarizes students with the sociology of law, causes of crime and the control of crime. Covers basics in criminology theories, patterns and behaviors. Learn socioeconomic and sociocultural influences that have affected crime over the years.

Prerequisite: CJ& 101 with a D or higher.
General Education Requirements:

Fulfills Think General Education Requirement

Meets FQE Requirement: No
Elective Requirements: Fulfills Gray Area Electives
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes

Understand the nature and causes of crime and the interactive nature of the criminal justice system.
Understand the evolvement of criminal law. Understand research methods used in the field of criminology.
Develop the ability to analyze statistical data and to read tables.
Understand the relationship of the public and larger society to crime and justice.

Course Contents

Introduction to Criminological Theory. Deterrence and Rational Choice Theories.
Biological and Biosocial Theories. Psychological Theories.
Social Learning Theory. Social Bonding and Control Theories.
Labeling and Reintegrative Shaming Theory. Social Disorganization Theory.
Anomie and Strain Theories. Conflict Theory.
Marxist Theories. Radical and Critical Theories.
Feminist Theories. Developmental and Life-Course Theories.
Integrating Criminological Theories.

Instructional Units: 5