CJ 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice

This course examines the entire range of criminal justice issues including legislation, enforcement, prosecution, the courts, and corrections. Theory, practice, and an analysis of historical and contemporary controversies constitute the substance of the course. This course is a prerequisite for all other CJ courses. 

Credits

3

Offered

Fall

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the American criminal justice system in terms of its three major components and their respective functions
2. Understand the historical context, current controversies, and basic elements of policing, courts, and corrections in America
3. Describe the process of American criminal justice, including the stages of criminal case processing
4. Define due process of law, including where the American legal system guarantees due process
5. Compare and contrast the major sources of crime data in the United States, including the strengths and weaknesses of each data source
6. Understand the role of discretion at every stage in the criminal justice process
7. Critically assess specific elements of the criminal justice system through writing assignments
8. Understand the significance of evidence-based practices in criminal justice