CRJ #101
Introduction to Criminal Justice
Course Syllabus
Revised: 09/01/2009
Revised by: Jon W. Haugen
Textbook: Criminal Justice Today (10th Addition) – Frank Schmalleger
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
I.
Instructor Contact Information
Jon Haugen
Churchill County Sheriff’s Office
Phone: 775-423-3116
Fax: 775-423-3298
Email: haugenj@wnc.edu
II.
Course Description/Objective
Surveys the history, philosophy and functions of the criminal justice system,
law enforcement, criminal law and constitutional rights as the affect system
functioning.
This course provides an introduction to the criminal justice system. The
primary goal of this course is to develop a general understanding of the
criminal justice system’s response to crime in society. It is important to note
that the general theme of this course involves the delicate balance between
community interests and individual rights that criminal justice decision
making requires. We will explore this theme by examining the criminal justice
process in some detail, focusing on how the system is structured to respond to
crime. This requires an understanding of the core elements of the criminal
justice system: police, courts, and corrections. It needs to be noted that this
textbook is covered in two classes (CRJ101 and CRJ102). In this course we
will explore the criminal justice in two parts, covering chapters 1 through 8.
We will also discuss the future of criminal justice in chapter 18.
I consider myself the facilitator of this course. It is very important that the
whole class is involved in the weekly discussions. Please ask questions,
provide input, and bring in news articles and topics of criminal justice interest
for class discussion. I am here to insure that the course objectives are met,
and that you achieve the goals set forth. You have a large part in this as well,
by directing the discussion so you get as much out of this course as possible.
Part 1 In Part 1 we will examine crime in America. We will briefly touch on
the basic functions of each component of the criminal justice system, discuss
the definition of crime and different kinds of crime, and then explore the
causes of crime.
Part 2 This part of the course will focus on the beginning stages of the
criminal justice process, exploring policing and police decision making. We
will explore the history and structure of policing, police management, and
legal aspects of policing.
III.
Grading Policy and Procedure
Attendance and Participation 80
Chapter Tests 120
Mid-Term Exam 75
Final Exam 150
Total Points 425
90-100% = A
80-89% = B
70-79% = C
60-69% = D
<60% = FAIL
2009 Class Schedule
Date
9/1
9/8
9/15
9/22
9/29
10/6
10/13
10/20
10/27
11/2
11/10
11/17
11/24
12/1
12/8
12/15
Test
Chapter 1 and 2
Chapter 3 and 4
Mid-term
Chapter 6 and 7
Chapter 8 and 18
Final Exam
Discussion
Reading Assignment
Introductions and Overview
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3 Pages 76-92
Chapter 3 Pages 92-108
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6 Pages 182-193
Chapter 6 Pages 193-219
Chapter 7 Pages 224-253
Chapter 7 Pages 253-271
Chapter 8 Pages 276-290
Chapter 8 Pages 290-303
Chapter 18
Summary/Final Review
Chapter 1 (all)
Chapter 2 (all)
Chapter 3 Pages 76-92
Chapter 3 Pages 92-108
Chapter 4 (all)
Chapter 5 (all)
Chapter 6 Pages 182-193
Chapter 6 Pages 193-219
Chapter 7 Pages 224-253
Chapter 7 Pages 253-271
Chapter 8 Pages 276-290
Chapter 8 Pages 290-303
Chapter 18
Review for Final
Review for Final