Bachelor of Science in Justice and Public Policy

This course examines the history, philosophy, and functions of local police departments, county sheriff’s offices, state law enforcement agencies, and federal investigative and intelligence organizations. Students gain a foundational understanding of policing that is essential for careers in law enforcement, public safety, and related fields.

This course introduces students to the American legal system, law, legal reasoning, and basic rules of evidence for criminal and civil litigation. Learning is supported with case studies, simulations based on court transcripts, and mock courtroom procedures. Students develop essential insight into the intertwined relationships between courts, the players involved in the civil and criminal justice systems, and society. Students learn fundamental foundations for professions involving the law, public policy, criminal justice, social work, and politics.

This course provides an introduction to probation, supervised release and parole in the American Criminal Justice System. Students will gain an understanding of probation, parole and supervised release, administration, policy and procedures as well as insight into the best practices currently being utilized in the field. This course further provides insight into the difficult, but interesting work performed by probation officers and techniques utilized to manage their caseloads. Students gain practical knowledge of community corrections and insight into probation and parole careers.

This course studies the socio-political relationship between criminal conduct and constitutional law, measures of criminal responsibility, limitations on criminal responsibility, and components of common crimes. Students learn through real-life cases and simulations based on real cases, witness interviews, arrest reports, charging documents, and court transcripts. This class provides key insights into the distinctions between criminal laws “on the books” and their enforcement in practice for students pursuing careers in law, criminal justice, and public policy.
Prerequisites: (JPP 104 or 1030).

This course introduces techniques and strategies developed for coping with or lessening the psychological, physical, and emotional effects of everyday life pressure when working in the criminal justice system, thereby improving job performance. Students develop resilience and wellness strategies essential for sustaining long careers in high-stress justice professions.

This course studies the psychological theories of crime causation and the impact of the use of psychology on the Legal System. Useful for law enforcement, legal, or counseling roles, students will gain an understanding of offender behavior and mental health.

This course introduces students to the wide range of career and internship opportunities in the justice field while equipping them with essential professional skills for long-term success. Students will explore topics such as professional etiquette, resume and cover letter development, job description alignment, interview strategies, online applications, networking, and mentorship. The course also addresses practical aspects of career readiness including position acceptance or rejection, understanding benefits, and budgeting for work and personal life, along with discussions on tithing and financial responsibility. Emphasis is placed on personal branding, particularly through social media, and students will participate in mock interviews to refine their presentation skills. By combining career preparation with practical life skills, this course provides real-world experience, networking opportunities, and tools that enhance employability, professional growth, and readiness to serve as effective justice and public service practitioners.

This course introduces students to the essential research methods and analytical tools used in the study of justice and public service. Students examine both quantitative and qualitative research strategies, addressing issues in measurement, research design, and hypothesis development. Emphasis is placed on strengthening analytical reasoning for evidence-based decision-making—skills critical for graduate study, professional practice, and policy evaluation.

This course introduces the principles and techniques of crime scene investigation, providing practical forensic knowledge applicable to careers in law enforcement, criminalistics, and evidence analysis.

This course explores contemporary issues, innovations, and evolving practices within the field of criminal justice. Each term focuses on a unique set of topics that may include emerging trends, new technologies, or pressing professional challenges. Through in-depth study and discussion, students gain insight into the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to navigate the complexities of justice-related careers and to succeed in a rapidly changing professional landscape.