Course Description:

The course is designed to be interactive with discussion about the current system and how we might change it.

The course will focus on three central themes: criminal justice; the system as a whole; and theory, research, and practice. Because there has been a research explosion in the field of criminal justice over the past forty years, we now know more about the operations of criminal justice organizations than ever before. The disciplines of sociology, political science, psychology, and criminology have complemented research done in criminal justice to produce some valuable insights into the workings of the criminal justice system.

Our second focus is on the systemic nature of criminal justice administration. By this, we mean that our coverage of the subject matter includes how the various components of the criminal justice system—police, prosecution, courts, and corrections—work together. There is value in examining these components separately, yet also value in viewing the “big picture” to appreciate how the components interrelate.

Our final focus is on the integration of theory research and practice in understanding criminal justice administration. The chapters move through the various topics applying theories, testing them, reviewing research findings, and discussing practical relevance and consequences.

As you read the chapters, consider the empirical basis for statements being made, question the research and practical implications that emanate from the research, and, most important, imagine what criminal justice administration would be like if we either knew more or did more to address a specific issue. Einstein once stated that imagination is more important than intelligence. As you read the chapters, imagine a different criminal justice system. What would its primary goals be? How would we accomplish these goals? Are they attainable? Are they practical and politically acceptable and to whom? Are they affordable?

Grading For The Course: ****Late assignments will not be accepted

Quizzes = 15 x 30 points = 450 points

Discussion Forums = 25 points x 6 = 150 points (approximately every other week)

Final Project / Paper = 200 points

Attendance and participation = 28 x 5 = 140

Course Total = 940 points

Course Meeting Time:

In Person

Tuesday and Thursday 3:55pm-5:10pm 

Required texts & materials

Criminal Justice Organizations: Administration and Management

by Stan Stojkovic, David Kalinich, John Klofas

6th Edition | Copyright 2015

Attendance and Participation:

Attendance is graded and participation is noted through the course. Participation is what makes this course more enjoyable.

ALL WRITTEN MATERIALS MUST BE CITED

Copying and pasting content from the Internet is NOT acceptable. When citing, please use APA (American Psychological Association) formatting. Information on APA can be found here: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/ (Links to an external site.)

Anything turned in without citations will be given an automatic 0, will be considered academic dishonesty, and will be reported.

Late assignments will not be accepted.

If you have conflicts with any of the assignments, prior arrangements must be made.

Academic Code of Conduct

I have a zero tolerance policy for plagiarism. You are expected to have academic integrity not only by me, but also by Indiana University. You are expected to follow the standards detailed in the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Conduct (available online). When you submit a paper with your name on it in this course, you are signifying that the work contained within that paper is yours, unless appropriately cited and referenced. Please be familiar with all university policies and procedures related to plagiarism. Sanctions for academic misconduct may include a failing grade on the assignment, reduction in the final grade, a failing grade in the course, and a report to the Dean of Students.

Expectations:

Each week read the assigned chapter, in the text, then read the Power Point slide deck associated with that chapter before class then, complete the quiz and discussion, if assigned, for that week.