SOCY 1400 - Introduction to Criminology
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to the sociological study of crime. Students will learn about the leading sociological theories of crime and how criminologists measure and study crime. A large portion of the course is dedicated to understanding each aspect of the criminal justice system, with special attention on historical and current trends within the system. Current issues, like racism and socioeconomic inequalities in the criminal justice system will be discussed from an evidence-based, sociological perspective. Students will also have opportunities to reflect on the ethics of controversial issues like punishment verses rehabilitation, jail time for unpaid fines, and the life-long legal consequences of a criminal conviction.
Major Content Areas
Current Policing Practices and the Current Criminal Justice System The History of Policing and the Criminal Justice System Inequalities in the Criminal Justice System by Race, Class, and Gender Criminological Research Methods Civic Responsibilities related to Crime and Justice Sociological Theories of Crime
Learning Outcomes
Evaluate current policies and practices in policing and the criminal justice system. Identify historical and current trends in crime and the criminal justice system Reflect on the ethical dimensions of the legal and social realities of criminal-justice-impacted individuals and their families. Explain the social construction of crime and deviance. Compare and contrast multiple sociological theories of crime. Develop evidence-based solutions to current issues in the criminal justice system, such as racial, socio-economic, and gender inequalities.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MNTC) Goals
09 - Ethical/Civic Resp 05 - Hist/Soc/Behav Sci
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