SOCI150 Criminology

Department of Social & Behavioral Science: Sociology

1. Course Number and Title

   SOCI150 Criminology

2. Number of Credits

   3 credits

3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

   2250 minutes

4. Prerequisites

   None

   Corequisites

   None

5. Other Pertinent Information

   None

6. Catalog Course Description

   The sociological relationships involved in the causes and prevention of crime and juvenile delinquency and in the treatment of criminal offenders.

7. Required Course Content and Direction

   1. Learning Goals:

      1. To give students an appreciation of the sociological view on criminal behavior in society.
      2. To stimulate interest through discussion about criminological problems.
      3. To bring about insight into the complex nature of criminal behavior.
      4. To heighten awareness of the problems we, as a society, face in coping with criminal behavior.

   2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      1. Defining the study of criminology
         1. A history and overview of the field of criminology
         2. definition of crime
         3. criminal behavior patterns
      2. Explanations of criminal behavior
      3. Types and classification of crimes
      4. The criminal justice system
         1. police
         2. court system
         3. corrections
         4. alternatives
      5. Influences on criminal behavior
         1. substance abuse
         2. gangs
         3. weapons
      6. Other issues in criminology
         1. victims
         2. use of theory and research
         3. possible solutions

   3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

   4. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

      See course format

8. Teaching Methods Employed

   Class lecture, discussion, films, and guest speakers

Review/Approval Date - 10/98