CJS/201 - Introduction to Criminal Justice
Course Description
This course is an introductory overview of the organization and jurisdictions of local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial and corrections agencies, and processes involved in the criminal justice systems. It examines the historical aspects of the police, the courts, and the correctional system, as well as the philosophy. Additionally, career opportunities and qualifying requirements, terminology, and constitutional limitations of the system will be covered.
This undergraduate course is 5 weeks.
PLEASE NOTE:
Attendance and participation are mandatory in all university courses, and specific requirements may differ by course. If attendance requirements are not met, a student may be removed from the course. Please review the Course Attendance Policy in the Catalog for more information.
Notes
The Criminal Justice System and the Constitution
- Identify the components of the criminal justice system.
- Identify the criminal justice process.
- Differentiate between theories of criminal behavior.
- Explain the relationship between the criminal justice system and the U.S. Constitution.
The Police and Law Enforcement
- Identify the amendments to the U.S. Constitution that directly affect policing.
- Explain the concept of community policing.
- Discuss the role of police in contemporary society.
- Explore careers in the criminal justice field.
Criminal Courts
- Identify the amendments to the Constitution that directly affect the court system.
- Discuss the effect of plea bargaining on the criminal justice system.
- Compare the philosophical reasons and goals of sentencing.
Corrections
- Describe the differences between jails and prisons.
- Explain the difference between parole and probation.
- Discuss the benefits of community corrections programs.
Special Issues
- Discuss contemporary issues in the juvenile justice system.
- Describe the connection between drugs and crime.
- Identify the causes of terrorism.
- Explain the relationship between crime and technological advancement.
Prerequisites
NoneDisclaimers
The University of Phoenix reserves the right to modify courses.
While widely available, not all programs are available in all locations or in both online and on-campus formats. More information about eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures can be found in the catalog.
Transferability of credit is at the discretion of the receiving institution. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm whether or not credits earned at University of Phoenix will be accepted by another institution of the student’s choice.