Revised 08/2018

ADJ 228 - Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs (3 CR.)

Course Description

Surveys the historical and current use of narcotics and dangerous drugs. Teaches the identification and classifications of such drugs and emphasizes the symptoms and effects on their users. Examines investigative methods and procedures utilized in law enforcement efforts against illicit drug usage. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an introduction to the illegal narcotic and dangerous drug problem in contemporary American society, as well as methods of combating that problem.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

None.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• define the various types and classifications of drugs.
• explore drug laws and enforcement techniques to apprehend and prosecute offenders.
• understand the dangers of drug abuse and the potential signs or symptoms of drug abuse.

Major Topics to Be Included

• Explore societal problems associated with drug abuse
• Identify signs of addiction
• Examine the different types of drugs including marijuana, stimulants, opiates, hallucinogens, inhalants, and alcohol
• Examine enforcement techniques used by law enforcement
• Describe the impact of drug laws in the United States
• Review the federal drug schedules

Optional Topics

Related topics at the discretion of the instructor