Criminology Minor

The minor in Criminology offers students a foundational understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and the institutions and processes that respond to crime in society. This program integrates philosophical, psychological, sociological, legal, and public policy perspectives to examine the causes and consequences of criminal activity, the functioning of the criminal justice system, and approaches to crime prevention and rehabilitation.

Students will engage in critical discussions of contemporary issues such as mass incarceration, policing practices, juvenile justice, and social inequality in the justice system. The program emphasizes analytical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills, and complements a variety of major fields including Computer Science-Cybersecurity, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, and Legal Studies.

Required Courses:

CRIM 101 - Crime and Justice Systems Credits: 3
CRIM 102 - Survey of Criminology Credits: 3

Controlled Electives (2)

Four additional courses in CRIM at the 200 level or higher, at least two of which must be 300 level or higher.

Total Minor Requirements: 18

(1) For students in the Computer Science/Cyber Security program, CRIM 321 and CRIM 323 are required.

SLOs

SLO	Assessment	Course
Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, principles, and issues in criminology.	Quizzes, Exams, and other assignments measuring knowledge of key concepts, principles, and issues.	CRIM 101 and CRIM 102.
Identify the concepts, propositions, and discipinary foundation of criminological theories of crime. Explain the strengths and weaknesses of crime reduction policies based on the policy’s application of various criminological theories.	Oral presentations, written assignments, split-method form responses, class discussion, small group assessment.	Various Crim 102, 200, 300, and 400 level courses.
Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills.	Rubric for written assignments, in-class free writes, presentations, Pod-casts, short essay response questions on examinations.	Various Crim 200, 300, and 400 level courses