Revised 11/2021
ADJ 107 - Survey of Criminology (3 CR.)
Course Description
Surveys the volume and scope of crime; considers a variety of theories developed to explain the causation of crime and criminality. Lecture 3 hours per week.
General Course Purpose
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an awareness of the multi-faceted nature of crime in contemporary culture, and to provide insight into how the criminal justice system, with citizen cooperation, is dealing with criminal behavior. Numerous biological, psychological, and sociological theories will be discussed in order to explain the complex nature of crime in American society.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
None.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Display the impact of crime on victims, private business, and government institutions.
- Relate various criminological theories to criminal behavior. Describe the role of criminal justice agencies and the citizenry in combating the crime threat.
- Differentiate between the different types of crime such as, organized crime, white-collar crime, property crime, persons crime, and public order crime.
- Differentiate and assess major theories of crime causation in society.
Major Topics to Be Included
- Explain the extent and problem of crime in American society.
- Describe various methodologies of crime measurement.
- Theories of criminal causation (biological, psychological, and sociological).
- Victims of crime (victimology).
- Examine various types of interpersonal violence in society.
- Review public order crime.
- Examine property crime.
- Define and review organized crime.
- Define and discuss white-collar crime.
- Differences between professional and amateur criminals.
- Examine the effectiveness of punishment and rehabilitation.
Optional Topics
- Related topics at the discretion of the instructor