Fall 2011-2012
SYLLABUS
CRJ 208
3 Semester Hours B
Introduction to Criminology
3 Contact Hours
Course Description
This course delves into the nature and extent of crime in the United States, as well as
criminal delinquent behavior and theories of causation. This study includes criminal
personalities, principles of prevention, control, and treatment.
Prerequisite
None
Course Textbooks, Manuals, or Other Required Materials
Siegel, Larry J. Criminology (Tenth Edition) Thomson/Wadsworth, Inc. 2009.
Blackboard access
Course Learning Outcomes
A. The student will demonstrate a basic knowledge of criminology.
B. The student will demonstrate knowledge of the theories of crime causation.
C. The student will demonstrate an understanding of crime typologies.
Outline of Course Topics
A. Crime and Criminology
B. The Nature and Extent of Crime
C. Victims and Victimization
D. Rational Choice Theory
E. Trait Theories
F. Social Structure Theories
G. Social Process Theories
H. Social Conflict, Critical Criminology, and Restorative Justice
I. Developmental Theories: Life Course and Latent Trait
J. Interpersonal Violence
K. Political Crime and Terrorism
L. Property Crime
M. Enterprise Crime: White-Collar and Organized Crime
N. Public Order Crime
O. Cyber Crime and Technology
P. Criminal Justice: Process and Perspectives
Q. Police and the Courts: Investigation, Arrest, and Adjudication
R. Punishment and Correction
Methods of Instruction
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Instructor lectures
Textbook
Blackboard and other Internet resources
Class discussion
Student research/projects
Field trips, if appropriate and time and budget permitting
Guest lecturers when appropriate and time and budget permitting
Evaluation and Assessment
A. Course grade assessment
1. Written and oral quizzes
2. Written exams
3. Homework
4. Class participation
5. Projects
B. Departmental Assessment of Learning Outcomes
1. On designated exams, the student will demonstrate the basic
knowledge of Criminology.
2. On designated exams, the student will demonstrate knowledge of the
theories of crime causation.
3. On a designated assignment, the student will demonstrate an
understanding of crime typologies.
C. Use of Assessment Findings
During the Fall In-service of the year following the scheduled review of CRJ 208,
a committee will review all course assessment materials submitted by the
instructors and division chair. The committee will submit a report of any
recommended curriculum changes for CRJ 208 to the division chair and send the
report to the Student Learning Outcomes Technical Committee. Upon approval by
the SLOT Committee, a copy will be filed with the Office of Planning and
Assessment.
Attendance
Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are registered. Students who are
unable to attend class regularly, regardless of the reason or circumstance, should
withdraw from that class before poor attendance interferes with the student’s ability to
achieve the objectives required in the course. Withdrawal from class can affect eligibility
for federal financial aid.
Statement on Discrimination/Harassment
NACC and the Alabama State Board of Education are committed to providing both
employment and educational environments free of harassment or discrimination related to
an individual’s race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, or disability. Such
harassment is a violation of State Board of Education policy. Any practice or behavior
that constitutes harassment or discrimination will not be tolerated.
Statement of Adherence to ADA Guidelines
Instructors will adhere to the Americans With Disabilities Act and/or Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act (1973) and will publish the following statement on course outlines
given to students at the beginning of each semester: “Any individual who qualifies for
reasonable accommodations under the American With Disabilities Act or Section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act (1973) should notify the instructor immediately.”