2004-2005 Justice Studies Course Descriptions

JUST

101

Introduction to Justice Studies

(4)

Overview of the history and purposes of the justice system. Introduction to the principle institutions: courts, prosecution and defense procedures, the police, the juvenile justice system, corrections, and the law. The relationship of justice studies to society and introduction to the issues facing the justices system today.

JUST

201

Introduction to Agencies of Social Control

(4)

The study of social control organization and behavior. History and contemporary issues are covered. Topics include the functions of social control, the role of social agents in society, community policing, police culture, multicultural and gender issues, and an introduction to theory of social control. Prerequisite: JUST 101.

JUST

250

Criminology

(4)

An examination of the etiology, characteristics, and consequences of crime and criminal behavior. Both classical and contemporary theories of crime causation are considered. Political, economic, social, psychological, and biological perspectives may be discussed. Prerequisite: JUST 101.

JUST

300

Special Topics in Justice Studies

(1-4)

The exploration of issues, problems, and innovations in Justice Studies. Prerequisites will vary with course content.

JUST

350

Criminal Law

(4)

This class focuses on the structure, elements, and behavior of the criminal law. The application of federal and state criminal statutes. Case law is considered.

JUST

440

Internship

(1-8)

Student placement in agencies or professional practices. Relevant research project required. Weekly seminar meetings with instructor to review agency progress. Prerequisite: junior or senior standing (for transfer students, at least 15 hours completed at Westminster), minimum 2.5 GPA, completion of the Career Resource Center Internship Workshop, and consent of program director and Career Resource Center Internship Coordinator.