Instructor: Chris Thompson

CRIMINAL JUSTICE I

The first year of this program includes the following two courses for which students may receive articulated credit to cooperating institutions. The program will cover career opportunities in the field of criminal justice and will provide leadership opportunities for regional and state leadership activities.

INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE

This introductory course addresses: the history and philosophy of criminal justice and ethical considerations; defines crime, its nature and impact; gives an overview of the criminal justice system, prosecution and defense, trial process and corrections. Lab activities include mock crime scene investigation and mock trial.

CRIME IN AMERICA

This course looks at U.S. crime problems in historical perspective, social and public policy factors affecting crime, crime trends, social characteristics of specific crimes, prevention of crime, and the social and economic impact of crime.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE II

The second year of this program will offer three courses for articulated college credit.

FUNDAMENTAL OF CRIMINAL LAW

Students begin their second year with a study of the nature of criminal law, philosophical and historical development, major definitions and concepts, classification of crime, elements of crimes and penalties using Texas statutes as illustrations, and criminal responsibility. Lab activities will include a mock trial.

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS

Eighty hours of telecommunications training is included in this course which familiarizes students with the field of emergency communications and 911. Certification training in 911 may be provided through a local Criminal Justice Agency beginning in the summer of 1998.

CORRECTIONAL SYSTEMS AND PRACTICES

A course designed to provide a study of corrections in the criminal justice system, correctional roles, institutional operations, alternatives to institutionalization, treatment and rehabilitation, and current and future issues.