Skip to main content

CRJU 475

I. Course Title: Case Studies in Criminology

II. Course Number: CRJU 475

III. Credit Hours: 3 credits

IV. Prerequisites: CRJU 100, CRJU 370, and junior or senior standing, or permission of the instructor

V. Course Description: 

This course applies criminological theories to explain the deviant behavior of real and/or fictional people and events.  Biographical information is examined for factors and events that predict their deviant actions. 

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

This course will cover material specifically related to the following issues:

  1. Review of relevant criminological theories
  2. Case studies of deviants, revolving around biographical information.
  3. How elements of criminological theories can be found in real-life events.
  4. The limitations of some criminological theories in explaining deviant behavior in specific examples.

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:

A number of instructional strategies will be employed in this course to enhance student engagement.  The course may include any or all of the following basic strategies.  

  1. Lecture
  2. Online content and activities
  3. Case studies
  4. Student presentations
  5. Class discussions and small group discussions
  6. Written and critical thinking assignments
  7. Guest speakers
  8. Video material

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

Having completed this course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify predictive factors of criminal behavior in people’s lives.
  2. Discuss biographical events in case-studies of deviants in terms of elements of criminological theories.
  3. Explain why some criminological theories better explain some types of crime better than other theories.
  4. Apply elements of criminological theories to social and biological factors in a criminal’s life.

VIII. Assessment Measures:

Assessment measures may include any combination of the following strategies:

  1. Examinations
  2. Presentations
  3. In-class discussion and participation
  4. Research papers
  5. In-class writing assignments
  6. Online assignments
  7. Group participation
  8. Quizzes

Review and Approval

August 2020

Apply NowPlan a Visit