A.A. in Criminal Justice: Curriculum

This course provides an introduction to the criminal justice system and criminology. Emphasis is placed on understanding the adjudication, corrections, and law enforcement systems. Students will explore crime, theories, terminology, functions, and relevant topics.

This course will enable students to develop the necessary skills to lead themselves academically, personally and professionally. This course will teach students about the resources and technology available to assist in their academic success. Specific topics of time management and goal setting will lead students to develop and utilize appropriate study techniques. Topics in life skills will lead students to a better understanding of self and others, and encourage the development and utilization of strategies to promote positive relationships, self-management, and professionalism. This course is recommended for students new to CSP or online learning.

Communication offerings are designed to develop a student’s understanding and application of research and critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate information, identify and evaluate source material, integrate differing points of view, and establish a reasoned course of action for effectively solving problems and demonstrating effective verbal, nonverbal, and/or visual skills (i.e., reading, writing, speaking, listening, audience awareness, and/or conflict resolution).

Social Science is the study of human society and/or behaviors and cause and effect. Social Science offerings are designed to develop a student’s understanding of individual or social human behavior from the perspective of one or more disciplines of the social sciences, knowledge of empirical methods for studying human behavior, and to use theories and concepts of human behavior with appropriate empirical evidence to analyze contemporary social issues (historical events, cultural and societal differences), consumer behavior, and/or the inter-workings of an economy, how to analyze and interpret data from a social science context, and evaluate society as a whole.

The humanities/arts general education curriculum increases students’ awareness, understanding and critical appreciation of aesthetic and literary works of human imagination.

The mathematics general education curriculum is designed to develop students’ understanding of basic mathematical concepts, develop their abilities to analyze and solve mathematical problems, and promote mathematical awareness in the analysis of problem-solving strategies and the interpretation of results to help them make decisions in their lives and careers.

Natural Science offerings are designed to equip students with the tools to understand scientific issues in today’s world by increasing their knowledge of natural science principles and scientific inquiry, and appreciation of the importance of science in their lives.

An investigation of the sacred literature of the Christian tradition. The course emphasizes essential skills in reading the Bible. It explores the covenant dealings of God with His people and the fulfillment of the covenant in Jesus Christ. Students read selected portions from the Old and New Testaments and explore Christian theological themes.

Challenges students to explore their purpose and/or baptismal call through elements of Christian theology and exemplars from the history of Christianity. Students will explore the concept of Christian vocation from historical and theological perspectives with special emphasis given to Martin Luther’s doctrine of vocation in relation to service of one’s neighbor. Students are challenged to think in new and creative ways about pursuing their passions and dreams for the good of others. This course fulfills the intermediate general education requirement. (Prerequisites: THL 125 or THL 200 or THL 206).

This course examines the balance between the community and the criminal justice system, focusing on related cross-cultural issues and diverse populations. Students will develop skills to manage diverse challenges, emphasize cultural awareness, understand system biases, and develop effective communication. Students will explore strategies to build and maintain trust. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course discusses trending topics in the criminal justice system. Students will explore historical and contemporary practices and strategies for addressing issues. Students will get an opportunity to explore a variety of local, national, and international criminal justice examples. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course explores forensic science in crime scene management and technology within the criminal justice system. Students will gain insight into forensic investigations, examine technologies, assess risks and vulnerabilities, and analyze evidence collection, preservation, analysis, and courtroom admissibility. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course examines the theories, concepts, and research behind criminal behavior and crime commission. Students will explore theoretical frameworks and analyze how they shape understanding of and responses to criminal behavior and offenders in the criminal justice system. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course explores juvenile delinquency and justice. Students will explore the juvenile justice system and compare juvenile and adult criminal justice policies and practices. The course will analyze risk factors and theories that seek to explain crime and delinquency. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course explores criminal, constitutional, and civil law within the criminal justice system. Students will review the different types of crimes defined in criminal law, criminal defenses, liability, classification of crimes, and criminal punishments. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course covers the Minnesota criminal code, juvenile offenses, traffic laws, and peace officer rights. Students will interpret and apply various Minnesota laws. This course is particularly applicable to students preparing for the MN POST Exam for law enforcement licensure. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)

This course explores ethical issues in the criminal justice system. Students will evaluate ethical decision-making, focusing on the influence of individual values, attitudes, and beliefs. Students will discuss various practices within ethical frameworks and perspectives. (Prerequisite(s): CJU 242; Strongly recommended sophomore standing or higher)