$$ Supplemental Course Fee: Many science lab courses require a separate fee added at the time of registration in order to cover the cost of additional instructional time, supplies and materials used by students. CJS*101,Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits) CJS*102, Introduction to Corrections (3 credits) CJS*105, Introduction to Law Enforcement (3 credits) CJS*106, Introduction to Homeland Security (3 credits) CJS*141, Fingerprinting (1 credit) CJS*142, Law Enforcement K-9s (1 credit) CJS*143: City of Corrections (1 credit) CJS*146: Mind of a Serial Killer (1 credit) CJS*150: Cannabis (1-3 credits) CJS*151, Criminal Justice Supervision and Administration (3 credits) CJS*211, Criminal Law I (3 credits) CJS*212, Criminal Law II (3 credits) CJS*213, Evidence and Criminal Procedure (3 credits) CJS*220, Criminal Investigation (3 credits) CJS*225, Forensic Science (3 credits) CJS*250, Police Organization and Management (3 credits) CJS*252, Professional Development- Leadership (3 credits) CJS*255, Ethical Issues in Criminal Justice Leadership (3 credits) CJS*285/SCI*285, Forensic Science with Laboratory The course will focus on developing the scientific vocabulary necessary for investigators to communicate with scientists. This course is meant to assist students who are pursuing a career in criminal justice. Emphasis of the course is placed on scientific analysis of data rather than detective work. Students will learn to appreciate how the major fields of science are utilized in solving crimes. The laboratory component will provide hands-on opportunities to integrate scientific methodology as it relates to criminal justice and the limitations of scientific testing. This course replaces CJS*225 Forensic Science. Students cannot get academic credit for taking both CJS*225 and CJS*285/SCI*285. CJS*288, Careers in Criminal Justice (3 credits) CJS*290, Practicum in Criminal Justice (3 credits) CJS*294, Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice (3 credits) SOC*240, Criminology (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
This course examines an overview of the criminal justice system on the local, state and federal levels in the United States. Students will be exposed to the historical, theoretical, philosophical and practical perspectives of the system’s police, court and correctional agencies. The course is required and is a core class in the Criminal Justice major. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101. (Updated January 2016) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
A study of the history, philosophy, and evolution of corrections as well as the functions of U.S. jails and prisons. The course also examines the procedures used by state and federal courts that result in the sentencing of offenders to penal institutions and community-based supervision and treatment programs. Prerequisites: CJS*101 (can be taken concurrently) and eligible for ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101. (Updated October 2015)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
This course offers a comprehensive examination of the public safety and law enforcement functions of government in a modern society. Topics covered will include the evolution, history, and philosophy of the law enforcement function: the role of the police in a democratic society; police accountability, corruption and deviance; police operational principles and practices; and, current problems confronting the police in their relationship to the community they serve. Prerequisites: CJS*101 (can be taken concurrently) and eligibility for ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101. (New course, effective Spring 2016)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
An introduction to the fundamental concepts of homeland security in the United States. This course examines the planning, preparedness, management, and response of governmental and non-governmental agencies to man-made and natural disasters. An historical perspective of events related to homeland security will also be examined in addition to technological and transportation implications. Prerequisite: CJS*101, which may be taken concurrently. (New course, Fall 2016)
This hands-on workshop will expose students to the fundamental skills necessary for documenting, identifying, and developing latent fingerprints. Students will utilize both chemical and physical visualization techniques to include: fingerprint powders, magnetic powders, SPR, Cyanoacrylate fuming, iodine, crystal, and crystal violet. Prerequisites: None
The course is designed to provide students with an overview of the use of K-9’s in law enforcement. Topics include: training, patrol work, special detection, community relations, search and rescue, liability, K-9 psychology, and special care required for maintaining the health and wellbeing of the canine. Course will also illustrate the distinction between working dogs and pets.Prerequisites: None
This class will connect students to the world of the State of Connecticut’s Department of Corrections. Students will be introduced to the DOC thru an interactive lecture and practical exposure that will consist of various correctional staff as guest speakers. Students will learn the historical origin of the DOC, and how it has progressed into current times. Some of this will include emphasis on rehabilitation and reintegration. Student’s will also be introduced to the organizational structure of the DOC and how it operates to ensure public safety, staff wellness, and efficiency. This will expose students to various correctional jobs, policies, practices, and structure. Student’s will also be exposed to various correctional jobs to include Correctional Warden, Correction Officer, K-9 Unit, CERT Team, Gang Intelligence Unit, Security Division, and Parole and Community Services. Student’s will be able to meet the various professionals, and get personal exposure to their job experiences. It will also be arranged for the students to receive a tour of one of the correctional facilities. Namely, the Cheshire Correctional Institution. The size limit on the tour is TBD. During this tour student’s will view the Young Adult Offender Program where offenders are paired with mentors in order to rehabilitate them. This class will also introduce students to a major component of the criminal justice field. Student’s will be able to connect how the DOC plays an important role in the judicial. Prerequisites: None
Every wonder what in the world a person could be thinking? Students in this course will analyze and examine the mind of a serial killer. Students will begin by learning the basics of the criminal law system, from what happens from the time of the arrest to the time of prosecution and conviction. Students will then move into an examination of famous killers such as Charles Manson, Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer. In conclusion, students will take an in depth look at the inner workings of the mind and what makes these killers “tick.” Prerequisites: None
An introductory class on cannabis and how it is used medicinally in Connecticut. This course explores a variety of related topics including state laws on medical marijuana, the chemical composition of cannabis, and how it plays a role in human physiology and pharmacology. The course will also examine the conflict between state, federal, and civil laws. Additional topics will include; employment law, ADA considerations, DUI enforcement, search and seizure, as well as national and global trends towards rescheduling cannabis. Prerequisites: None
In this course students study the essentials of personnel administration,management and supervision within criminal justice agencies. Topics include supervisory principles, discipline, motivation, training, ethics, recruitment,managing and supervising in a diverse workplace, and interviewing techniques. (Updated November 2014) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
Gen Ed Competencies: Continuing Learning/Information Literacy, Critical Analysis & Logical Thinking
The study of the act(s) and mental state(s) which make up the elements of a crime. The analysis of these criminal elements will allow exploration into a wide spectrum of criminal law including felonies and misdemeanors. This is not a course specifically addressing Connecticut laws, although they will be discussed in comparison with other state and federal court decisions. Prerequisites: CJS*101 with a “C-” or better, AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated October 2015)
Gen Ed Competencies: Continuing Learning/Information Literacy, Critical Analysis & Logical Thinking
A study of the act(s) and mental state(s) which make up the elements of a crime. The analysis of these criminal elements will allow exploration into a wide spectrum of criminal law including felonies and misdemeanors. This is not a course specifically addressing Connecticut laws, although they will be discussed in comparison with other state and federal court decisions. Content of the course will build on the foundation laid in CJS*211: Criminal Law I. Prerequisite: CJS*211 with a “C-” or better. (New course, effective Spring 2016)
Gen Ed Competencies: Continuing Learning/Information Literacy, Critical Analysis & Logical Thinking
This course provides students with fundamental principles relative to procedures and processes within the Criminal Justice system as applied to arrest,the use of force, and search and seizure. The course provides the student with an opportunity to examine the various types of evidence and “proof”in regard to kind, degree, admissibility, competence, and weight. Prerequisites: CJS*101 with a “C-” or better,AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated October 2015)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
In this course students study the fundamental principles and relative theories applicable to criminal investigation. The course includes the consideration of development of information sources, identification of witnesses and suspects,laws and techniques relative to interview and interrogation and admissions, and case preparation techniques. Prerequisites: CJS*101 with a “C-” or better, AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated October 2015) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
Gen Ed Competencies: Scientific Knowledge & Understanding, Scientific Reasoning
A study of how the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physical Science, and Physics meld to form the field of Forensic Science. The course will focus on developing the scientific vocabulary necessary for investigators to communicate with scientists. This course is meant to assist students who are pursuing a career in criminal justice. Emphasis of the course is placed on scientific analysis of data rather than detective work. Students will learn to appreciate how the major fields of science are utilized in solving crimes. Prerequisites: CJS*101 with a “C-” or better, AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated October 2015) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
This course exposes students to the complexities inherent in the administration of modern law enforcement organizations by presenting and analyzing a variety of management styles and administrative techniques used in such organizations. Students will examine many of the internal and external factors that impact contemporary law enforcement organizations (e.g., federal regulations, political structures, community needs, press, etc.). Prerequisites: CJS*101 with a “C-” or better, AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated October 2015) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
The course is designed to provide students with fundamental and advanced components of leadership theory as it relates to Criminal justice organizations. Prerequisite: CJS*101. (Updated July 2019)
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the necessity of high standards of ethical and moral behavior in the justice system. Areas of focus include ethical and moral issues in personal, social, and criminal justice contexts. Comprehensive coverage is achieved through focus on law enforcement, legal practice, sentencing, corrections, research, crime control policy, and philosophical issues. This is an “L” course. Prerequisites: CJS*101 with a “C-” or better, AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated October 2015) (Fulfills an “L” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
(4 credits/6 contact hrs.)
A study of how the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physical Science, and Physics meld to form the field of Forensic Science.
Prerequisite: ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a grade of “C-” or better AND eligible for MAT*137 or MAT*137E.
$$ Laboratory Course Fee
Gen Ed Competencies: Scientific Knowledge & Understanding, Scientific Reasoning
Gen Ed Competency: Social Phenomena
The course is designed to provide students with the practical skills necessary for employment within the field of criminal justice. Students will explore the physical, intellectual, and psychological demands associated with obtaining and maintaining a career within the field of criminal justice. The course will explore various types of job opportunities available within the courts, corrections, and law enforcement community, to include the application and selection process for each of these positions. Students will learn the various physical fitness standards associated with each position as well as the necessary written and oral communication skills. Students will draft both a cover letter and resume, in conjunction with participating in a mock oral board interview. Prerequisites: ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a grade of “C” or better, AND completion of 12 credits in criminal justice courses. (New course, effective Spring 2016)
Gen Ed Competencies: Social Phenomena, Written Communication in English
Open to students in Criminal Justice programs, this practicum offers participants the opportunity to put learned theory to practical application. Assignments are individualized and may vary. Those who are not currently employed in a field directly related to their program may be assigned either a research project/paper or a supervised internship experience. Those currently employed in a field directly related to their study will be required to relate their experiences through appropriate assignments. Prerequisites: Instructor Approval, AND ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E, or ENG*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated Fall 2017)
Gen Ed Competencies: Critical Analysis & Logical Thinking, Social Phenomena
In this course students will be exposed to the contemporary issues that impact the functions, and organization of Criminal Justice agencies in the United States. Topics in the course includes issues such as; racial profiling, torture, capital punishment, gender, social stratification, social class, politics, and use of force. The focus and content of the course will change each year to reflect the changes in political and social thought and their impact on public policy. Prerequisites: ENG*101, ENG*101E, or ENG*101-ALP with a “C-” or better AND CJS*101 with a “C-” or better. (Updated Spring 2017)
Gen Ed Competencies: Scientific Reasoning, Social Phenomena
The course examines the nature and cause of crime, approaches to the study of crime, and its treatment and prevention. The sociology of criminal law and the nature of criminal behavior are also examined. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENG*101-ALP, ENG*101E or ENG*101. (Prerequisite updated October 2015, to add ENG*101-ALP) (Fulfills an “L” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)