Course Listings

Introduction to Investigative Forensics

CCJS 101 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: A survey of the practical applications of forensic science. The aim is to learn to apply the scientific method to forensic evidence and distinguish between reality and popular misperceptions of the roles and importance of forensic science and its practitioners. Discussion covers the "CSI effect," the scientific method as it applies to forensic evidence, ethical practices, and legal aspects of the field. Topics include the definition of forensic science and how it has evolved, disciplines within the field, ethical codes, and case law.

Juvenile Delinquency

CCJS 350 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Fulfills the general education requirement in behavioral and social sciences.) Prerequisite: CCJS 100. Recommended CCJS 105 . An examination of juvenile delinquency in relation to the general problem of crime. The aim is to apply theories and identify statutory parameters related to juvenile delinquency, analyze prevention measures, and assess the effectiveness of treatment measures. Topics include factors underlying juvenile delinquency, prevention of criminal acts by youths, and the treatment of delinquents. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CCJS 350 or CRIM 450.

Victimology

CCJS 360 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Fulfills the general education requirement in behavioral and social sciences.) Prerequisite: CCJS 100.Recommended CCJS 105. An overview of the history and theory of victimology in which patterns of victimization are analyzed, with emphasis on types of victims and of crimes. The aim is to identify and apply appropriate preventative measures and responses to victimization. Discussion covers the interaction between victims of crime and the system of criminal justice in terms of the role of the victim and the services that the victim is offered. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CCJS 360 or CRIM 360.

Medical and Legal Investigations of Death

CCJS 420 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: CCJS 101, CCJS 100, or CCJS 105. Recommended: CCJS 234. An intensive look at medical and legal investigations into causes of death. The objective is to perform investigative functions at a death scene, determine and apply forensic testing, and analyze and effectively communicate investigative information. Topics include the difference between the medical (or pathological) and legal (or criminal) components of investigations into causes of death, medical and investigative terminology, and the impact of ethics on prosecutions and convictions. Case studies illustrate practical applications of various forms of forensic styles and parameters.

Cybercrime and security

CCJS 390 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: An examination of crimes involving the use of computers. Topics include federal and state laws and investigative and preventive methods used to secure computers. Case studies emphasize security. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CCJS 390, CCJS 496, or CCJS 498C.

Correctional Administration

CCJS 497 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: CCJS 230, CCJS 340, CCJS 341, CCJS 345, CCJS 380. An examination of prison administration, including theories of management and institutional structure and purpose. Objectives include the application of organizational concepts, leadership, and effective administrative approaches to the management of correctional institutions and offender populations. Emphasis is on concepts of organizational structure, communication, self-assessment, short- and long-term strategic operational planning, decision making, and human resources.

Introduction to Security Management

CCJS 345 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (Formerly CCJS 445) Prerequisite: CCJS 100. A study of the history, concepts, principles, and methods of organizing and administering security management and loss prevention activities in industry, business, and government. The objective is to manage security duties, evaluate and apply risk management principles, and evaluate administrative and operational issues. Discussion covers both private and governmental risk assessment and management and the protection of assets, personnel, and facilities. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: CCJS 345, CCJS 445, or CCJS 498G.

Firearms and Toolmarks Analysis

CCJS 441 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: CCJS 301. A comprehensive study of toolmark evidence, including toolmarks imparted by firearms. Discussion covers the practical analysis of evidence in a criminal investigation. The aim is to assess toolmarks; examine, compare, evaluate, and verify firearm and toolmark evidence; and convey findings. Topics include comparison methodologies, historical and mechanical foundations of toolmarks, and legal aspects. Focus is on developing the foundational knowledge and applied skills expected of an entry-level professional in the firearms and toolmarks field.

Digital Forensics in the Criminal Justice System

CCJS 321 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: (For students not majoring in criminal justice; not open to students who have completed CCJS 421; does not satisfy prerequisites for other criminal justice courses.) An overview of the criminal justice system and the application of digital forensic evidence in criminal justice cases. The objective is to apply constitutional and case law to the search and seizure of digital evidence, determine the most effective and appropriate forensic response strategies to digital evidence, and provide effective courtroom testimony in a case involving digital evidence. Topics include crime scene procedures and the collection of digital evidence, procedures performed in a digital forensics lab, and the preparation of courtroom testimony by the digital forensic investigator.

Crime Scene Investigation

CCJS 342 | 3 Credits

Course Desc: Prerequisite: CCJS 100, CCJS 101, or CCJS 105. Recommended: CCJS 234. An examination of the investigation of crime scenes. The objective is to apply skills expected of an entry-level professional in the investigative forensics field. Topics include the crime scene, crime scene documentation, evidence, and post-crime scene activities.