B.S. 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 explores the roles and organization of the various components within the criminal justice system. Students will gain insights into interagency collaboration and discuss interrelated problems. The course enhances skills in organizational collaboration to address change. (Prerequisite: CJU 242)

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 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)

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 is the culminating application in the major linking theoretical, conceptual, and practical experiences to formalize understandings and career goals. Students will complete one or more of the following: Internship, Portfolio, or Capstone Project. (Prerequisite: CJU 242; sophomore, junior, or senior standing)

This course covers the comprehensive scope of best-practice research methods and statistical analysis techniques used in social and behavioral science research. Students will gain experience with different research methods and hypothesis testing as well as become proficient in writing within the realm of social and behavioral science research. (Prerequisites: PSY 102 or CJU 242 or SOC 151)