This course is an introduction to the sociological study of crime. Students will learn about the leading sociological theories of crime and how criminologists measure and study crime. A large portion of the course is dedicated to understanding each aspect of the criminal justice system, with special attention on historical and current trends within the system. Current issues, like racism and socioeconomic inequalities in the criminal justice system will be discussed from an evidence-based, sociological perspective. Students will also have opportunities to reflect on the ethics of controversial issues like punishment verses rehabilitation, jail time for unpaid fines, and the life-long legal consequences of a criminal conviction.
Course Effective Dates: 5/21/24 – Present
Outline of Major Content Areas
Civic Responsibilities related to Crime and Justice
Criminological Research Methods
Current Policing Practices and the Current Criminal Justice System
Inequalities in the Criminal Justice System by Race, Class, and Gender
Sociological Theories of Crime
The History of Policing and the Criminal Justice System
Learning Outcomes
Compare and contrast multiple sociological theories of crime.
Explain the social construction of crime and deviance.
Identify historical and current trends in crime and the criminal justice system
Evaluate current policies and practices in policing and the criminal justice system.
Develop evidence-based solutions to current issues in the criminal justice system, such as racial, socio-economic, and gender inequalities.
Reflect on the ethical dimensions of the legal and social realities of criminal-justice-impacted individuals and their families.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum Goal Area(s) and Competencies Goal 05 — Hist/Soc/Behav Sci
Employ the methods and data that historians and social and behavioral scientists use to investigate the human condition.
Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.
Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Goal 09 — Ethical/Civic Resp
Understand and apply core concepts (e.g. politics, rights and obligations, justice, liberty) to specific issues.
Recognize the diversity of political motivations and interests of others.
Identify ways to exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
