College of Applied Sciences
Program Goals and Student Learning Outcomes
As of 07/21/2006
Department: Applied Criminology
Program: B.S. in Criminal Justice
Program Goals:
1. Provide excellent instruction using a quality curriculum for undergraduate and graduate students in the field of criminology/criminal justice that
will equip them with the necessary skills to successfully transition from school to work and/or further educational pursuits.
2. Encourage and support faculty research and other professional activities that enhance faculty skills and expertise, thus adding value to the
classroom experience and other faculty student activities.
3. Encourage and support positive faculty-student interactions in formal and informal environments to enhance student learning and
development.
4. Encourage and support faculty members in collaborating with each other (both in and outside of the department) and in actively pursuing
opportunities to work with faculty in other institutions.
5. Provide a range of service activities within the university and in the larger community to apply academic knowledge to practical problems, build
a strong partnership between the university and the surrounding community, and to contribute to efforts by the university and the larger
community to improve the quality of life for all concerned.
Student Learning Outcomes:
1. Identify and describe the basic structure and function of the main components of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts
corrections and juvenile justice.
2. Summarize and interpret the main theories in criminology/criminal justice that offer various explanations and/or understandings of why people
commit crime.
3. Articulate and explain the basic research methods in the social sciences.
4. Distinguish how the major criminal justice institutions respond to crime and victims.
5. Ask relevant questions and engage in research to explore special issues in criminology/criminal justice and their effects on society.
6. Formulate an understanding of the roles of race/ethnicity, class, religion and sex in criminal behavior and as a societal response to crime.
7. Apply criminology/criminal justice theories, principles and concepts to address real life problems and situations in the criminal justice field.
8. Exhibit strong oral and written communication skills.
9. Utilize appropriate technology in the study of criminology/criminal justice issues.
10. Identify career options in criminology/criminal justice, including pursuit of advanced degrees.
11. Practice ethical behavior in a professional work setting.
12. Engage in critical thinking/analysis.
1
7/31/2006
Office of Assessment