Law and Criminal Justice Courses at Capella University
Program Name:
BS - Criminal Justice
| Statistical Literacy |
| Course Number |
MAT2050 |
| Credits |
3.0 |
This course emphasizes the learner as a consumer of statistics rather than a producer of statistical calculations. Learners apply critical-thinking skills to arguments involving statistics and interpret and evaluate statistics used in real-world situations. |
| Communication Strategies for the Public Safety Professional |
| Course Number |
PS3004 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
In this course, learners build and strengthen the skills needed to succeed in their program and the workplace. Learners engage in interactive activities that help them develop a public safety perspective and expand their organizational, research, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Learners also participate in building a learning community, share talents and resources with courseroom peers, and prepare professional written communications. Other topics include teamwork, ethics, and project creation. For BS in Public Safety learners only. Must be taken during the learner’s first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or petition. |
| Introduction to Criminal Justice |
| Course Number |
PS3100 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the characteristics of the U.S. criminal justice system and its evolution in response to the continually changing forces that influence crime control. Learners gain an understanding of criminal justice theory and its relation to criminality, the criminal justice system, and the principles of the adjudication process. |
| Introduction to Emergency Management |
| Course Number |
PS3200 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an introduction to the growing field of emergency management. Learners study various hazard threats and examine strategies for determining and reducing vulnerability. Learners also analyze disaster response and recovery behaviors and activities. Course topics include local, state, and federal emergency management organizations and the impact of various stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, on the emergency management process. |
| Principles of Security Management |
| Course Number |
PS3300 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the private security industry from a business perspective. Course topics include security department management and operations, emergency and disaster management, the role of security in risk management, and integrating security with local law enforcement organizations and the role of security management in the business environment. |
| Introduction to Homeland Security |
| Course Number |
PS3400 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an overview of the essential concepts of the emerging field of homeland security. Learners study a range of threats to U.S. security, including specialty weapons, cyber attacks, and smuggling. Learners also examine current issues related to large-scale refugee flow and civil liberties, and evaluate homeland security domains, including strategy, fear management, and crisis communications. This course helps learners build a foundational vernacular upon which to critically analyze homeland security. |
| Applied Public Safety Theory |
| Course Number |
PS3500 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces the major theoretical approaches to threats to public safety from the eighteenth century and the Enlightenment period through the present. Learners study the work of experts associated with the historical, international body of criminology knowledge. Learners explore a range of issues and apply public safety theory and research to analyze them, further developing their critical thinking and writing skills. |
| Principles of Public Safety Investigation |
| Course Number |
PS3600 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course focuses on analyzing breaches in physical, information, or personnel security. Learners examine the principles and procedures used for crime scene investigation and protection from security and law enforcement perspectives. Learners also study methods of collecting and preserving evidence; interviewing and interrogating complainants, witnesses, suspects, and victims; and employing scientific applications in criminal justice and private security investigations. |
| Justice, Crime, and Ethics |
| Course Number |
PS3700 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course analyze the ethical dimension of law enforcement practice and acquire the critical knowledge and skills that support ethical, on-the-job decision making. Learners examine major ethical problems such as discrimination, corruption, deception, racial profiling, and excessive force using material drawn from commissions of inquiry, internal affairs investigations, published literature, human rights documentation, and observed police-community relations. Learners explore the bases for developing personal and professional ethics, guided by professional codes of practice and human rights standards. |
| Applied Public Safety Research Methods |
| Course Number |
PS3800 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners are introduced to the principles of social research in the field of public safety. Learners use the scientific method to collect data and analyze research questions specific to crime prevention, emergency planning, information security, and hazard assessment. Learners also explore the ethics of public safety research techniques and practical applications of research. |
| History of Violence in the U.S. Society |
| Course Number |
PS3900 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners review the history of violence in U.S. society, focusing on war, terrorism, hostility, and conquest. Course content emphasizes the roles of local, state, and federal public safety agencies in addressing violence issues in the post-9/11 era. |
| Introductory Public Safety Statistical Research |
| Course Number |
PS3950 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
This course introduces learners to basic statistical language and procedures related to crime phenomena data. Learners practice basic skills such as reading and calculating formulas and analyze the effects of measurement techniques, distribution shapes,and other factors of the statistic-selection process. Learners also examine two-variable relationships, including correlation and prediction measures. Prerequisite(s): MAT2050, PS3800. |
| White Collar and Organized Crime Investigations |
| Course Number |
PS4105 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners focus on the principles, parameters, and procedures of white collar and organized crime investigations. Learners study ways to apply best practice techniques of criminal investigation pursuant to current statutes and legal precedents. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Corrections, Probation, and Parole |
| Course Number |
PS4110 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces learners to the fields of penology and corrections. Learners analyze the evolution of corrections, probation, and parole processes and the effects associated with corrections and reform movements. Learners also examine criminal behavior assessments that help determine offender placement and incarceration alternatives. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Juvenile Justice Practice |
| Course Number |
PS4115 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the philosophy of the juvenile justice system. Learners examine the principles of juvenile law and current juvenile justice system practices and processes. Learners also analyze methods of dealing with youthful offenders. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Policing in the U.S. Society |
| Course Number |
PS4125 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides a broad overview of the historical development, organizational structure, responsibilities, and work performed in U.S. law enforcement agencies at the municipal, county, state, and federal levels. Learners analyze the relationships between local police agencies and the various levels of government charged with law enforcement responsibilities. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Race, Crime, and Criminal Justice |
| Course Number |
PS4135 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners analyze the relationship between criminological theory and practice and study the history, evolution, and operation of the criminal justice system, with an emphasis on race. Learners examine criminal justice ethics and the implications of race on definitions of crime, criminological theory, and crime victimization. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Criminal Law and the Legal Process |
| Course Number |
PS4140 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners explore criminal law and its application in the legal system. Learners analyze the legal principles used to resolve legal disputes and assess the relevance and potential impacts of legal decisions. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Criminal Law |
| Course Number |
PS4145 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the historical development of criminal law and the rules of criminal procedure that govern its application. Learners distinguish between the social and legal definitions of crime and dissect the various elements of crimes. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| History of Drug Control |
| Course Number |
PS4150 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course focus on the origin, history, and impact of drug control. Learners examine drug law enforcement, drug regulation trends and developments, and the evolution of drug treatment. Learners also analyze the local, state, and federal laws governing drug treatment. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Police Administration |
| Course Number |
PS4155 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners evaluate police administration concepts. Learners examine communication principles and decision-making, leadership, and human resource management skills used in contemporary law enforcement environments. Learners also analyze individual and group behavior and ethics within police organizations. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Criminal Procedure and Evidence |
| Course Number |
PS4160 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides learners with an understanding of the formal rules for obtaining, qualifying, and admitting evidence for criminal investigation and prosecution. Learners examine case studies to analyze and apply the rules of criminal procedure. Prerequisite(s): PS3100. |
| Public Safety Capstone Project |
| Course Number |
PS4990 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
The capstone project is the culmination of the bachelor’s degree program in Public Safety and is intended to demonstrate the technical and applied public safety knowledge and the critical-thinking and communication skills learners gain during their program. Learners formulate ideas for a new public safety approach, create a vision, and develop a strategic plan that describes how to implement their concept. For BS in Public Safety learners only. Must be taken during the learner’s final quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or petition. |
| Elective Courses CJ |
| Credits |
37.0 |
Choose 37 quarter credits of additional
undergraduate courses. |
| General Education Classes |
| Credits |
45.0 |
General Education Requirements are 45 quarter credits with a minimum of
6 quarter credits from each category: Communications, Humanities, Natural Science and Mathematics, Social Science. |
Program description: The Criminal Justice specialization provides undergraduate learners with knowledge of the processes and procedures related to the criminal justice profession. Learners examine the criminal justice system and the relationships among private, local, state, and federal law enforcement organizations. Learners also analyze crime investigation techniques and law enforcement principles. Upon successful completion of this specialization, learners are prepared for entry-level public safety careers such as U.S. Postal Service Inspectors and U.S. marshals; agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration; Internal Revenue Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; United States Customs Service; Immigration and Naturalization Service; Department of the Treasury; Bureau of Engraving and Printing; and other local and state law enforcement agencies.
Program Name:
BS - Homeland Security
| Homeland Security in the 21st Century |
| Course Number |
PS4310 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course is an introduction to the responsibilities of the Department of Homeland Security. Learners examine the roles and jurisdictions of the 22 federal agencies within the Department of Homeland Security and their relationships with local, county, and state agencies. Learners also identify the economic challenges associated with ensuring homeland security. |
| Homeland Security and Multijurisdictional Coordination |
| Course Number |
PS4320 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners In This Course Focus On Nationally Recognized And Accepted Multijurisdictional Emergency Operations Systems. Learners Examine The National Incident Management System (nims) And The Incident Command System (ics) As Foundations For Modeling And Coordinating Effective Crisis Command And Communication Management Systems. Learners Also Evaluate Proper Techniques For Managing Rumor Control And Disseminating Information During Times Of Crisis. |
| Homeland Security and Emergency Management |
| Course Number |
PS4325 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course presents the fundamentals of risk and asset analysis in the field of homeland security and emergency management. Learners examine physical, operational, economic, legal, and asset security risks and establish appropriate levels of preparedness for an operational system. Learners also study gap analysis measures and develop corrective action plans for both political and Incident Command systems. |
| Leadership in Homeland Security |
| Course Number |
PS4330 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an overview of homeland security leadership strategies, including best practices for achieving leadership success. Learners study the organizational structure of the homeland security field and gain an understanding of leadership constraints and leadership autonomy. |
| Technology and Homeland Security |
| Course Number |
PS4340 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners study integrative technology systems and application techniques used in the homeland security field. Learners examine technological resources and their applications in securing mission-critical data. Other course topics include data networking, data mining, intelligence gathering, forecasting models, and planning for tabletop exercises using conventional and virtual simulations. |
| Domestic and International Terrorism |
| Course Number |
PS4360 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
The focus of this course is on the mission of protecting the United States from domestic or international threats. Learners identify and interpret social, cultural, and psychological threats and stressors that can result in terrorist acts. Other course topics include terrorist organizations, political threats, and regional conflicts. |
| World Conflict |
| Course Number |
PS4365 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners identify and evaluate the causes of world conflict. Learners examine and interpret social, cultural, and psychological threats and stressors that can result in global fear and world conflict. Other course topics include the historical evolution of terrorism; geopolitical threats; and past, current, and potential regional and world conflicts. |
| Diplomatic Approaches to National Security |
| Course Number |
PS4370 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course addresses the issues involved with maintaining national security while respecting citizens’ individual freedoms. Learners study the art of diplomacy and examine other nations’ approaches to democracy and their relationships with the U.S. |
| Intelligence Role in Homeland Security |
| Course Number |
PS4380 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course evaluate threats to homeland security and identify the intelligence-gathering methods used to address them. Learners also use the intelligence process model to assess and properly allocate the resources needed to maintain homeland security. |
| Multijurisdictional Approaches to Investigations |
| Course Number |
PS4390 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the intricacies of conducting successful multijurisdictional investigations. Learners study crime scene evaluation and preservation practices, crime-specific investigation strategies, and the different investigation standards of various federal agencies. |
| Introduction to Criminal Justice |
| Course Number |
PS3100 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the characteristics of the U.S. criminal justice system and its evolution in response to the continually changing forces that influence crime control. Learners gain an understanding of criminal justice theory and its relation to criminality, the criminal justice system, and the principles of the adjudication process. |
| Introduction to Emergency Management |
| Course Number |
PS3200 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an introduction to the growing field of emergency management. Learners study various hazard threats and examine strategies for determining and reducing vulnerability. Learners also analyze disaster response and recovery behaviors and activities. Course topics include local, state, and federal emergency management organizations and the impact of various stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, on the emergency management process. |
| Principles of Security Management |
| Course Number |
PS3300 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the private security industry from a business perspective. Course topics include security department management and operations, emergency and disaster management, the role of security in risk management, and integrating security with local law enforcement organizations and the role of security management in the business environment. |
| Introduction to Homeland Security |
| Course Number |
PS3400 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an overview of the essential concepts of the emerging field of homeland security. Learners study a range of threats to U.S. security, including specialty weapons, cyber attacks, and smuggling. Learners also examine current issues related to large-scale refugee flow and civil liberties, and evaluate homeland security domains, including strategy, fear management, and crisis communications. This course helps learners build a foundational vernacular upon which to critically analyze homeland security. |
| Applied Public Safety Theory |
| Course Number |
PS3500 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces the major theoretical approaches to threats to public safety from the eighteenth century and the Enlightenment period through the present. Learners study the work of experts associated with the historical, international body of criminology knowledge. Learners explore a range of issues and apply public safety theory and research to analyze them, further developing their critical thinking and writing skills. |
| Principles of Public Safety Investigation |
| Course Number |
PS3600 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course focuses on analyzing breaches in physical, information, or personnel security. Learners examine the principles and procedures used for crime scene investigation and protection from security and law enforcement perspectives. Learners also study methods of collecting and preserving evidence; interviewing and interrogating complainants, witnesses, suspects, and victims; and employing scientific applications in criminal justice and private security investigations. |
| Justice, Crime, and Ethics |
| Course Number |
PS3700 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course analyze the ethical dimension of law enforcement practice and acquire the critical knowledge and skills that support ethical, on-the-job decision making. Learners examine major ethical problems such as discrimination, corruption, deception, racial profiling, and excessive force using material drawn from commissions of inquiry, internal affairs investigations, published literature, human rights documentation, and observed police-community relations. Learners explore the bases for developing personal and professional ethics, guided by professional codes of practice and human rights standards. |
| Applied Public Safety Research Methods |
| Course Number |
PS3800 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners are introduced to the principles of social research in the field of public safety. Learners use the scientific method to collect data and analyze research questions specific to crime prevention, emergency planning, information security, and hazard assessment. Learners also explore the ethics of public safety research techniques and practical applications of research. |
| History of Violence in the U.S. Society |
| Course Number |
PS3900 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners review the history of violence in U.S. society, focusing on war, terrorism, hostility, and conquest. Course content emphasizes the roles of local, state, and federal public safety agencies in addressing violence issues in the post-9/11 era. |
| Introductory Public Safety Statistical Research |
| Course Number |
PS3950 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
This course introduces learners to basic statistical language and procedures related to crime phenomena data. Learners practice basic skills such as reading and calculating formulas and analyze the effects of measurement techniques, distribution shapes,and other factors of the statistic-selection process. Learners also examine two-variable relationships, including correlation and prediction measures. Prerequisite(s): MAT2050, PS3800. |
| Public Safety Capstone Project |
| Course Number |
PS4990 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
The capstone project is the culmination of the bachelor’s degree program in Public Safety and is intended to demonstrate the technical and applied public safety knowledge and the critical-thinking and communication skills learners gain during their program. Learners formulate ideas for a new public safety approach, create a vision, and develop a strategic plan that describes how to implement their concept. For BS in Public Safety learners only. Must be taken during the learner’s final quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or petition. |
| Statistical Literacy |
| Course Number |
MAT2050 |
| Credits |
3.0 |
This course emphasizes the learner as a consumer of statistics rather than a producer of statistical calculations. Learners apply critical-thinking skills to arguments involving statistics and interpret and evaluate statistics used in real-world situations. |
| General Education Classes |
| Credits |
45.0 |
General Education Requirements are 45 quarter credits with a minimum of
6 quarter credits from each category: Communications, Humanities, Natural Science and Mathematics, Social Science. |
| Elective Courses CJ |
| Credits |
37.0 |
Choose 37 quarter credits of additional
undergraduate courses. |
Program description: Undergraduate learners in the Homeland Security specialization examine the fundamentals of the homeland security profession and acquire knowledge and skills needed to manage public security in conjunction with federal resources. Specialization topics include world conflict and the geopolitical roots of terrorism, terroristic threat analysis, domestic and international terrorism, and the role of diplomacy and intelligence in homeland security. Successful graduates of this specialization are prepared to pursue careers as Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) program specialists, Department of Homeland Security policy analysts or criminal investigators, or U.S. Department of Transportation security screening analysts.
Program Name:
MS - Criminal Justice
| Survey of Public Safety Issues, Theories, and Concepts |
| Course Number |
PSF5002 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides learners with foundational public safety academic content that helps them prepare for course work in their chosen Public Safety specialization. Learners analyze various public safety theories, concepts, and research from the practitioner-scholar perspective, including law, policy analysis, emergency management and business continuity, leadership, multiculturalism, criminological theory, and public safety research methodology. |
| Research Methodology in Public Safety |
| Course Number |
PSF5006 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course presents an overview of various graduate-level public safety and criminal justice research methodologies. Learners study major research methodologies and quantitative, qualitative, and mixed research design approaches to rigorous scholarly inquiry. This course also provides an introduction to qualitative and quantitative research data analysis tools. This course is aimed primarily at master’s learners, although PhD learners may take it as an elective. |
| Public Safety Ethnic and Cultural Awareness |
| Course Number |
PSF5334 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the salience of race, ethnicity, and culture in public safety and the ways public safety addresses the diverse needs of multicultural citizens. Learners analyze cultural experiences from gender, social class, religion, and disabled-status perspectives, and study and apply theoretical approaches for addressing cross-culturalism. |
| Practices of Probation, Parole, and Community Corrections |
| Course Number |
PSF5371 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course is an investigation of historical and current community-based correctional practices. Learners examine trends in practice and policy that govern community supervision programs and explore issues surrounding offender rehabilitation and re-entry. |
| History of the Juvenile Criminal Justice System |
| Course Number |
PSF5372 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course offers an intensive study of the juvenile criminal justice system and process. Learners examine theories of causation and innovative intervention approaches such as “drug court.” Learners also review the dramatic increase of juvenile violence and crime in U.S. culture over the last quarter century and focus on the debate between root causes of juvenile violence and crime (e.g., poverty, literacy, family and community cohesion) versus the effectiveness of the juvenile court system (recidivism, youthful violent crime offenders, and incarceration). |
| Criminal Justice Policy Analysis and Social Change |
| Course Number |
PSF5377 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In This Course, Learners Evaluate Criminal Justice Policies And Programs, The Processes By Which They Are Developed, And Their Effects On Social Change. Topics Include Intelligence-led Policing, Immigration And Policing, The Usa Patriot Act, And Socioeconomic Correlates Of Crime. Learners Identify A Current Public Safety Problem And Formulate A Solution Using Criminal Justice And Public Safety Practices And Policies. |
| Law Enforcement: Intelligence-led Policing |
| Course Number |
PSF5380 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course focuses on the planning, operations, and technology of law enforcement organizations. Learners study problem- and community-oriented policing, datadriven accountability, crime analysis, and crime prevention as means to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement and intelligence gathering within the emerging National Response Framework (NRF) collaborative model. Learners also examine national and international case studies to integrate theory and best practice toward the development of a more effective policing model. |
| Psychopathy and Criminal Profiling |
| Course Number |
PSF5385 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
As an introduction to the study of criminal profiling, learners in this course explore criminal and non-criminal psychopathy and their comorbities, including compulsive and addictive behavior. Learners examine empirical research and theory that differentiate antisocial personality disorders and general criminal behavior from criminal psychopathy and determine whether there are ways to identify offenders as dangerous by analyzing their behavioral cues or crime-scene clues. Learners also study crimescene management and its connection to criminal profiling. |
| Integrative Project for Public Safety learners |
| Course Number |
PSF5991 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners demonstrate proficiency in their specialization area by applying learning from required and elective courses to complete an analysis of a public safety organization or system, or propose a new application in their professional field. |
Program description: The master’s Criminal Justice specialization prepares learners to understand and effectively address the complex issues surrounding criminal behavior. This specialization supports learners who are currently caseworkers, probation and parole officers, juvenile specialists, law enforcement professionals, and federal government agents as they advance their careers in corrections, criminal justice, or the judicial system. The Criminal Justice curriculum emphasizes acquisition of knowledge, leadership, and research that prepares learners to facilitate positive changes in criminal justice fields.
Program Name:
MS - Legal Studies
| Human Resource Management in the 21st Century |
| Course Number |
HRM5004 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the evolution of human resource management, labor, law, and human capital management. In particular, learners analyze the trends and issues influencing the development and application of these elements within contemporary organizations. Learners also examine the effects of emerging legislative thought and action on today’s workplace. HRM5004 must be taken by master’s learners in their first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or petition. |
| Marketing and Sales |
| Course Number |
HRM5010 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces learners to theories, models, and strategies used to create internal and external organizational marketing systems. Learners explore ways to apply general marketing and sales knowledge to developing and sustaining the credibility of an organization’s human resource management function. Learners also study current marketing and sales models to develop an internal HRM marketing plan. |
| Business Fundamentals |
| Course Number |
HRM5020 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners gain an understanding of current accounting, economics, and finance principals and practices and the ways they can be applied to business management and human resource management. Learners use these principles and practices and their applications to develop an HRM business plan. |
| Ethics and Advocacy in Organizations |
| Course Number |
HRM5030 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
The focus of this course is ethics and ethical behavior in organizations. Learners examine the role of human resource professionals as ethical change agents and assess their responsibilities in fostering ethical business and work environments |
| Strategy and Business Development |
| Course Number |
HRM5050 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners In This Course Evaluate Organizational Theories, Models, And Strategies Used For Effective Human Resource Management Planning And Practice. Learners Examine The Current And Potential Applications Of Organizational Theories And Strategies To Contemporary Hrm Practices. Learners Also Create Strategic Hrm Models And Identify Best Practices. |
| Human Resource Management and the Law |
| Course Number |
HRM5250 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides learners with an understanding of the application of U.S. law and legislation to human resource management theory and practice in the modern workplace. Learners evaluate the legal perceptions and perspectives articulated in HRM policies, procedures, and practices and examine the laws and legislation that influence their development. |
| Legal Studies Capstone |
| Course Number |
HRM5950 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This is an integrative course for learners in the master’s Legal Studies specialization. Learners synthesize and integrate the knowledge, competencies, and skills acquired throughout the program by developing and implementing a final project that demonstrates critical thinking, creativity, and practical application of program content. Learners create and customize project plans and strategies to achieve desired project outcomes. |
| Building the Law |
| Course Number |
HRM5251 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course presents an overview of the U.S. legislative process. Learners analyze the foundational constitutional principles governing the legislative process and the legislative responsibilities of the branches of U.S. government. Learners also examine the role of law enforcement in the workplace and the applications of legal principles in the development of labor and employment law. Learners review case studies and engage in field work to gain understanding of and facility with labor and employment law. |
| Rights of Wrongs: Torts and Employment |
| Course Number |
HRM5253 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides learners with a foundational understanding of torts. Learners examine the categories and elements of tort law in order to gain both theoretical and practical frames of reference for understanding its application in the workplace. Learners also explore the relationship between tort, labor, and discrimination law and analyze how U.S. courts have ruled in each type of case. |
| The Attorney Relationship |
| Course Number |
HRM5255 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces learners to the dynamics and dimensions of the relationship between the human resource management professional and attorney. Learners examine the knowledge and skills needed to engage in informed and constructive dialogue with legal counsel and analyze the purpose, maintenance, and benefits of the HRM professional and attorney relationship. Learners also evaluate compensation models, multipurpose firms, and legal specializations. |
| Workplace Legal Actions |
| Course Number |
HRM5257 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the theoretical and practical aspects of workplace legal actions, including investigation, evidence, and communication. Learners study strategies and methods of conducting internal workplace investigations with legal counsel and explore evidence-collection and management tools and techniques. Learners also evaluate methods of communicating evidence-related information both internally and externally. |
| Legal Systems: Countries in Contrast |
| Course Number |
HRM5259 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners analyze the legal systems of major industrialized countries and compare them to the United States legal system. Learners also examine the purpose and application of workplace and employment law in other industrialized countries. |
Program description: Learners in the master’s Legal Studies specialization study the associations between business and law in the modern workplace. Specialization topics include practice and theory of constitutional, tort, and labor and employment law; employee discrimination; fact investigation; and workplace legal communications and actions. Learners examine and apply select business and legal practices and theories in establishing and maintaining legally compliant organizations that achieve business goals. Upon successful completion of this specialization, learners are prepared to pursue careers as human resource managers, employee relations managers, human resource management generalists, or conflict resolution specialists.
Program Name:
PhD - Criminal Justice
| Advanced Research in Public Safety Issues, Theories, and Concepts |
| Course Number |
PSF8002 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides learners with advanced public safety academic content that helps them prepare for course work in their chosen Public Safety specialization. Learners critically analyze various public safety theories, concepts, and research from the scholar-practitioner perspective, including law and legal systems, leadership and leadership theory, community corrections, terrorism, criminological theory, and public safety research methodology |
| Contemporary Public Safety Leadership |
| Course Number |
PSF8601 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the factors contributing to increased demands on public safety agencies and the need for effective leadership at all levels within the public safety domain, including changing demographics, new technologies, globalization, and terrorism. Learners explore emerging issues, challenges, and theoretical assumptions of leadership in the public safety field and evaluate the impact of public safety paradigms on the ability to lead in an era of rapid and constant change. |
| Theories of Leadership |
| Course Number |
PSF8602 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this doctoral seminar course examine the leadership theories that inform public safety research and practice. Learners explore foundational tenants of leadership theory and evaluate their associated impacts on organizations, leaders, and followers. |
| Public Safety Incident Command Paradigm |
| Course Number |
PSF8634 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners study the development and effectiveness of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) from its inception to its current state. Topics include examining integrated best practices, standards, and techniques critical to successfully managing national emergencies and leading the successful implementation of a national standard of practice for emergency response. |
| Diversity Issues in Public Safety |
| Course Number |
PSF8606 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course focuses on the impact of increased diversity in our communities and the heightened need to understand and address how racial, ethnic, and cultural pluralism affect human behavior. Topics include ways in which public safety organizations must reflect changes in social attitudes, practices, policies, and concepts such as transparency, diversity, and inclusion within public safety organizations. |
| Epistemology of Practice Knowledge |
| Course Number |
HS8106 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine theories that guide the acquisition of knowledge within human services professions. Learners critically analyze and evaluate the methods used to develop social science theory as a precursor to examining and applying the scientific method. Learners also study theory derivation, the link between research methods and theory, and the ways scholar-practitioners apply the scientific method. |
| Fundamentals of Social Science Research |
| Course Number |
HS8100 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces learners to social science research, particularly in the context of human services. Learners focus on becoming educated consumers of research and examine major concepts and techniques of social science research, including problem formulation, identification of variables, literature review, research design, sampling, definition and measurement of study variables, instrument construction, and data collection and analysis. Learners also critically evaluate published research, apply research findings to professional practice, and practice designing research studies in their field of interest. |
| Quantitative Research Methods in the Human Services |
| Course Number |
HS8111 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the research methods and designs human service professionals use to solve specific social problems. Topics include human subjects protection, measurement, development of instruments, data collection and management, and initial phases of data analysis. Learners also consider methodological adaptations when conducting research with vulnerable and diverse populations. |
| Advanced Qualitative Research Methods |
| Course Number |
HS8112 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners evaluate qualitative research methods and designs. Learners focus on developing the skills used to synthesize information related to qualitative research methodology and examine ethical issues associated with the qualitative research process |
| Advanced Study in Research Methods |
| Course Number |
HS8113 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course analyze the relevance and appropriateness of specific research methodologies in preparation for using them in the dissertation. The course emphasizes conceptualizing, planning, and designing a doctoral research proposal and includes topics such as planning and sampling; measurement; statistical and qualitative analytic models; results planning, analysis, and interpretation; and ethical considerations |
| Sociological Theories of Crime |
| Course Number |
PSF8350 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the sociological theories that explain crime causation from the early 19th century to the present. Topics include the ways the environment contributes to criminal behavior, specifically, the effects of association, informal and formal social control mechanism, and location on crime causation. Learners also study original theorist writings to help them develop a high level of theoretical synthesis and application. |
| Psychological and Biological Theories of Criminal Behavior |
| Course Number |
PSF8354 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners develop an understanding of the psychological and biological factors that affect criminal behavior. Learners study the work of theorists and researchers that identify and analyze essential psychological and biological theories, empirical findings, and projections that attempt to explain criminality and further illuminate the criminal mind. |
| Law and Legal Foundations |
| Course Number |
PSF8358 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course presents a historical overview of the U.S. legal framework and the ways in which it has established legal policy and operational guidelines for public safety personnel and the criminal justice system as a whole. Learners focus on the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments and their interpretative case laws, and analyze them according to how well they maintain the balance between civil liberties and public safety. |
| Criminal Justice Policy Analysis |
| Course Number |
PSF8362 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course analyze the ways criminal justice policies are implemented, administered, and evaluated. Learners examine the actual and perceived effects of implemented policies on both the criminal justice agencies responsible for implementing them and the criminal justice system as a whole. Learners also review case study examples to analyze the ways in which political agendas, organizational initiatives, accepted operational practices, and legislation have affected the criminal justice system and administration of justice. Case study examples include the Kansas City Preventive Patrol Experiment; Broken Windows, the police and neighborhood safety study; plea bargaining; federal sentencing guidelines; mandatory sentencing and truth-in-sentencing legislation;
and abolishment of parole. |
| Current Research on Violent Behavior |
| Course Number |
PSF8374 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Through an examination of sociological and psychological perspectives in current research, learners in this course develop a coherent approach to understanding violent behavior. The course also focuses on the ways in which violence is defined by the criminal justice system. Learners practice using the vocabulary of criminal justice practitioners in writing. |
| Correlates of Crime |
| Course Number |
PSF8376 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners explore one of the most perplexing problems faced by any person with a basic knowledge of statistics: the confusion of correlation with cause. Learners in this course examine social class, race, sex, and gender as correlates of crime to determine if patterns exist for understanding their development. |
| The Penal System: Its Role in the U.S. Society |
| Course Number |
PSF8377 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the social and historical foundation of the U.S. correctional institution in depth. The course focuses primarily on issues related to structure and social processes of institutions of confinement and to problems of treatment and rehabilitation. Topics include a systemic evaluation of recidivism, general and specific deterrence, rehabilitation, incapacitation, and retribution in the U.S. correctional system. The emphasis of the course is on philosophies of punishment, sentencing strategies, the prison community, alternatives to incarceration, various reform efforts, and critical issues facing corrections. |
| Doctoral Comprehensive Examination |
| Course Number |
ED9919 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course includes an overview of the comprehensive examination process, the university’s expectations of academic honesty and integrity, the three core themes of the examination, and the evaluation criteria. The courseroom mentor provides three questions addressing the core themes. Learners write answers to the comprehensive examination questions. Answers are evaluated by faculty readers using point-scale scoring rubrics. Upon passing the comprehensive examination, learners are eligible to enroll in the first dissertation course. |
| Dissertation Courseroom |
| Course Number |
EDD9920 |
| Credits |
0.0 |
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and peer and mentor support during each dissertation course as they complete the required milestones. |
| Dissertation Research 1 |
| Course Number |
ED9921 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
| Dissertation Research 2 |
| Course Number |
ED9922 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
| Dissertation Research 3 |
| Course Number |
ED9923 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
| Dissertation Research 4 |
| Course Number |
ED9924 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
Program description: The doctoral Criminal Justice specialization prepares learners to understand and effectively address the complex issues surrounding criminal behavior prevention, intervention programming, and development of public policy strategies at the community, state, and national levels. Designed for professionals with a master’s degree in human services, psychology, or a related social sciences field, the Criminal Justice specialization provides learners with opportunities for advanced study and research in the field that support career advancement to academic, supervisory, or administrative levels. Graduates are prepared for leadership, research, and consulting positions that have a positive impact on criminal justice systems.