Criminal Justice

CJ 501. Foundations in Crime and Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.

This class is a graduate level introduction to the criminal justice system. The class provides an in-depth examination of the present day structure, function, and history of the criminal justice system. Specifically, the flow of cases across various decision points from the police, through courts, to corrections is critically explored. F.

CJ 502. Theories of Crime. 3 Credits.

This course reviews theories of crime, from early historical perspectives through more contemporary perspectives. It engages students in a careful examination of theoretical traditions that have shaped thought regarding definitions of crime, causes of crime, and responses to crime from the Enlightenment onward. Attention is directed toward examining different frameworks for classifying theories, understanding specific theories, critically analyzing theories, and identifying the policy implications of theories. F, odd years.

CJ 503. Research Methods in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.

This course examines how research is conducted in criminology and criminal justice. The course is designed to highlight the research process, ethical issues, different types of quantitative and qualitative research designs, data analysis, and the reporting of research results. F, even years.

CJ 504. Visualization and Interpretation of Criminal Justice Data. 3 Credits.

This course provides theoretical background and practical experience in statistics and data analysis for criminal justice. Specifically, we focus on how to manage complex datasets that are unique to the discipline. Students will develop critical skills, including data wrangling and data cleaning, while becoming familiar with complex publicly available datasets that are important for criminal justice professionals and scholars. The course examines descriptive, inferential, and multivariate statistics employed in criminal justice research about the nature of crimes, criminals, and the criminal justice system. Basic hand-style calculations are employed in the course to aid students in the proper understanding and interpretation of statistical techniques often used in the field. A heavy focus is placed on using Excel to calculate statistics and visualize information for interpretability. S, odd years.

CJ 505. Administrative Decision Making in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.

This administrative decision making class will provide you with an overview of inquiry in social sciences generally as well as contemplating administrative issues facing criminal justice practitioners currently. This class encourages critical self-reflection as students raise their own administrative questions pertaining to their area of interest as well as other areas more broadly. Guidelines will be offered to assist students in developing solutions to dilemmas they may encounter in the field, as well as how to consistently consider the consequences of their actions in all walks of life. S, even years.

CJ 507. Program Evaluation in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.

The proliferation and institutionalization of evidence-based practices and programs in criminal justice is contingent on proper program evaluation. Outcome evaluations are often required at the proposal stage to obtain funding, and their completion is necessary to retain support. This course is designed to build students' skills in understanding and conducting a program evaluation, including the appropriate identification, use, interpretation, and reporting of statistical results. While emphasis is on impact evaluation specifically, process evaluations and cost-benefit analyses will also be discussed. On demand.

CJ 510. Historical Perspectives in Criminology. 3 Credits.

An overview of the development of western criminological thought from the enlightenment to the mid-twentieth century. The course examines viewpoints ranging from the demonic perspective to early learning, anomie/strain, social disorganization, labeling, and conflict theories.

CJ 511. Contemporary Perspectives in Criminology. 3 Credits.

An overview of developments in criminological thought from the mid-twentieth century to the present. The course examines the growth of mainstream viewpoints (e.g., anomie/strain, learning, and control theories) and critical criminology (e.g., Marxist, feminist, post-modern, and peacemaking perspectives). Prerequisite: CJ 510.

CJ 515. Human Nature and Crime. 3 Credits.

This course examines historical and contemporary applications of the concept of "human nature" in explanations of criminal behavior. Attention is also given to the role played by "human nature" in the evaluation of social institutions that react to crime and deviance. Finally, attempts to integrate biological and cultural explanations of human behavior as they pertain to crime will be addressed. Prerequisite: CJ 510.

CJ 516. Theories of Punishment. 3 Credits.

This course surveys the variety of attempts to describe, justify and explain punishment as a feature of human social life. Emphasis is placed on criminal punishment, but extra-legal punishments and their relationship to criminal punishments are also explored. Prerequisite: CJ 510.

CJ 520. Topics in Research Methods. 3 Credits.

An examination of philosophical underpinnings of the scientific method in social research. The course examines epistemological and ontological debates in contemporary social research and their application to research design. Repeatable.

CJ 522. Qualitative Research Methods in Criminal Justice. 3 Credits.

An examination of the underlying rationale, methods, and limitations of qualitative research in criminal justice. Topics include ethnographic research, action research, historical research, case studies, and content analysis.

CJ 525. Advanced Quantitative Methods/Analysis. 3 Credits.

This course is intended to familiarize students with advanced multivariate statistical techniques. Topics include regression analysis, factor analysis and path analysis. Other specific statistical analysis techniques may also be explored. Prerequisite: CJ 504 or consent of instructor. On demand.

CJ 526. Special Topics in Quantitative Analysis. 3 Credits.

Variable topics exploring advanced statistical methods/analytical techniques such as time-series analysis, structural equation models, logistics regression, hierarchical linear modeling, categorical-data analysis and general linear models. Topics to be determined based on student demand. Prerequisite: CJ 504 or consent of instructor. Repeatable. On demand.

CJ 535. Seminar in Juvenile Justice. 3 Credits.

Variable topics addressing the administration of the juvenile justice system and juvenile justice policy. Course will consist of lectures, discussion, and readings. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Criminal Justice or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 9.00 credits. On demand.

CJ 540. Seminar in Criminal Justice Policy. 3 Credits.

Variable topics addressing policy and policy development in the criminal justice system, including police, prosecution, courts, and corrections systems. Course will consist of lectures, discussion and readings. Repeatable to 9 credits. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Criminal Justice or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 9.00 credits. On demand.

CJ 545. Seminar in Rural Justice Issues. 3 Credits.

Variable topics addressing issues in the administration of policing, prosecution, courts, and corrections in rural areas, course will consist of lectures, discussion and readings. Repeatable to 9 credits. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Criminal Justice or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 9.00 credits. On demand.

CJ 555. Seminar in Tribal Justice Systems. 3 Credits.

Variable topics addressing the administration of criminal justice in Indian territory. Course will consist of lectures, discussion and readings. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Criminal Justice or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 9.00 credits. On demand.

CJ 565. Victimology. 3 Credits.

This course provides an analysis of the literature and research concerning criminal victimization. Attention will be directed toward current trends concerning the victim in the American criminal justice system with particular emphasis on measuring victimization, the impact of victimization and victim's rights and compensation initiatives. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Criminal Justice or consent of instructor. On demand.

CJ 594. Practicum: Research. 1-6 Credits.

This course is intended to place advanced students in criminal justice agencies as research analysts. Students will be under the supervision of a program faculty member and are expected to carry out research at the direction of an agency director or designee. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. S/U grading.

CJ 597. Administrative Internship. 1-6 Credits.

Students are employed on a full-time or part-time basis in on-the-job assignments related to the administration of criminal justice agencies of federal, state or local governments. Students are required to produce an analytical report based on internship responsibilities. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Criminal Justice or consent of instructor. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

CJ 995. Scholarly Project. 3 Credits.

This course is designed for students in the MS in Criminal Justice Studies program, ideally with enrollment during the last semester. Students investigate a topic related to criminal justice and organize a professional report about that investigation. Projects may involve original contributions to knowledge or an analysis of information and ideas already in the literature. As a capstone experience, projects showcase skills and knowledge acquired through coursework as well as applications to solving real-world problems. Prerequisite: Approval of Graduate Director. S.

CJ 996. Continuing Enrollment. 1-12 Credits.

Repeatable. S/U grading.

CJ 998. Thesis. 1-6 Credits.

Total of 6 credits required for the MS in Criminal Justice Studies program's thesis option. Prerequisite: Approval of Graduate Director. F,S.

CJ 999. Dissertation. 1-12 Credits.

Original research project suitable for publication. Repeatable to 18 credits. Prerequisite: Successful completion of comprehensive exams and consent of department. Repeatable to 18.00 credits.

FS 520. Advanced Seminar in Forensic Sciences. 4 Credits.

During this advanced seminar course, students will explore contemporary topics in forensic sciences through a combination of article readings, student presentations, review reports, and sessions with invited speakers. The course is designed to enhance students' critical thinking and analytical skills by engaging with current research and developments in the field. F.

FS 530. Quality Assurance and Ethical Conduct in Forensic Science. 4 Credits.

This course provides students with essential information on ethical principles and quality assurance practices in forensic science. Students will explore integrity, objectivity, and accountability, and analyze ethical dilemmas in evidence handling, reporting, and court testimony. The course covers professional ethical guidelines, legal responsibilities, and compliance with forensic evidence laws. Through case studies, students will assess ethical breaches and their impact on justice and public trust. Emphasizing integrity, the course promotes self-reflection, best practices, and continuous professional development. F.

FS 540. Law and Forensic Sciences. 4 Credits.

This course explores the intersection of law and forensic science, focusing on key legal principles and forensic techniques. Students will learn about the rules of evidence, chain of custody, and the role of forensic science in legal cases. The course emphasizes evaluating forensic evidence in court, assessing the validity of techniques like DNA analysis and ballistics. Ethical issues, such as disclosing exculpatory evidence and preventing wrongful convictions, will be examined, while students will understand the responsibilities of forensic experts, including the Daubert Standard for testimony. S.

FS 550. Crime Scene Investigation and Analysis of Pattern Evidence. 3 Credits.

This course immerses students in the world of crime scene investigation, emphasizing the analysis of pattern evidence. Through hands-on learning, students will process and meticulously examine impression evidence, such as footwear, tire marks, and toolmarks. By mastering these techniques, students will acquire essential skills to uncover critical details and solve complex cases. S.

FS 552. Fingerprinting and Friction Ridge Processing and Examination. 3 Credits.

Friction ridges have been used for personal identification for hundreds of years. Even in the DNA era, friction ridges still remain crucial to forensic science. In this course, students will gain knowledge and skills to accurately process friction ridge skin including various dusting, fuming, and lifting techniques. Additionally, students will use ACE-V methodology to examine and evaluate friction ridge marks. F.

FS 570. Biological Evidence and Serology. 4 Credits.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of forensic biology, focusing on the identification, collection, and analysis of biological evidence. Students will learn to identify various biological fluids, such as blood, semen, and saliva, and master proper evidence collection techniques and serological assays. The curriculum includes comprehensive coverage of DNA extraction, amplification, and profiling methods, including STR, Y chromosome, and mitochondrial DNA analysis. Additionally, the course addresses the legal and ethical considerations surrounding forensic DNA evidence. S.

FS 575. Controlled Substances. 4 Credits.

This course offers an in-depth study of controlled substances, focusing on their classification and scheduling. Students will explore the chemical properties of various controlled substances and the legal frameworks governing their use. Through practical exercises and case studies, students will develop the skills necessary for accurate and reliable forensic analysis. S.

FS 580. Criminalistics: Biology. 4 Credits.

This course will provide students with information regarding the molecular biology techniques and methodologies used in forensic science, with a particular focus on DNA analysis. Students will explore the critical aspects of forensic DNA typing, including sample collection, storage, and characterization. The course will cover the challenges and strategies involved in identifying missing persons and disaster victims, emphasizing the handling of degraded DNA samples. Additionally, students will learn about single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their applications in forensic investigations. The legal aspects of DNA testing will be examined, preparing students to serve as scientific experts in court. S.

FS 585. Advanced Fire Debris Analysis. 4 Credits.

In this course, students will acquire knowledge of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards that are applied in fire debris analysis (collection, preservation, and analysis). They will also acquire knowledge of applying ASTM standards to determine the presence or absence of ignitable liquid from a fire debris sample and will learn to utilize databases to analyze the fire debris samples. The students will also learn to understand the instrumentation currently being used in the field. In addition, students will learn to apply basic chemometric skills using R. S.

FS 590. Forensic Microbiology. 3 Credits.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the principles and advanced laboratory techniques for the analysis of microorganisms. The course will focus on microbial evidence associated with soil, water, skin, hair, built environments and the process of decomposition. The role of microbiology in bioterrorism, public health and contamination will also be explored. Laboratory sessions will offer hands-on experience with collection, extraction, PCR, and sequencing of microbial DNA. F.

FS 594. Forensic Microscopy. 3 Credits.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of forensic microscopy, providing students with practical, hands-on experience using various microscopes and microscopic techniques essential in forensic science. Students will learn to apply these techniques to analyze and interpret forensic evidence. F.

FS 997. Independent study in forensic science. 1-4 Credits.

This course provides graduate students with the opportunity to conduct independent research in forensic science under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Students will engage in original research projects that contribute to the field of forensic science, applying advanced methodologies and analytical techniques. The course emphasizes the development of research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate scientific findings effectively. F,S.

FS 998. Research Thesis. 1-9 Credits.

This course is designed for graduate students. It involves the completion of an original research project under the supervision of a faculty advisor. F,S.