CRJU 370

CRJU 370: Crime and Criminal Behavior

Prerequisite: CRJU 100, junior or senior standing, and declared major or minor in Criminal Justice or permission of the instructor

Credit Hours: (3)

This class focuses on theoretical explanations of criminal behavior and implications for policy.

Note(s): Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course.

 

Detailed Description of the Course

1. Overview of major theories
2. Development and construction of theory
3. Policy applications of each theory

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

A number of instructional strategies will be used, including but not limited to lectures, case studies, student presentations, group learning projects, written assignments (e.g., exams, research papers), discussion of films and other examples of popular culture.

 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

Having successfully completed this course, students will:

The student will be able to

• analyze and differentiate between various schools of criminological thought
• trace the evolution of theories across time
• critically evaluate criminological theories and their applications
• explain the impact of research into the causes of crime on shaping criminal justice policy
• examine and critique the theoretical foundations underlying criminal justice policies
• distinguish between macro and micro explanations of criminal behavior
• develop and apply analytical skills to criminological concepts and issues.
• demonstrate proficiency in both verbal and written communication for academic and professional contexts.

 

Assessment Measures

Knowledge and understanding of the material covered in this course, including the ability to apply it to real life situations, may be measured using an array of assessment tools such as quizzes, tests, applied exercises, formal and informal written assignments, oral presentations, group work, and class discussion. Instructors of this course can choose among these assessment tools and may develop others if they deem it appropriate.

 

Other Course Information

None

 

Approval and Subsequent Reviews

DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY

May, 2011

March 01, 2021

April 23, 2025