CRIM 110 - Introduction to Corrections

3 Credit: (3 lecture, 0 lab, 0 clinical) 3 Contact Hours: [Reading Level 3 ]

This course provides a broad overview of the American corrections system and presents an explanation of the various goals of corrections including incapacitation, retribution, deterrence, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Specific coverage of the development of correctional ideologies from early history to the modern era and how those ideologies were reflected in various types of programs is presented. Additional attention is given to the legal issues and processes which move an individual in and out of the system and how civil rights decisions have influenced the continuing development of corrections.
OFFERED: fall semesters

Course Goals/ Objectives/ Competencies:
Goal 1: Examine the history and development of corrections.

Concatenate the historical and philosophical development of corrections.
Outline the correctional client’s process through the correctional system.
Compare the Classical vs. Positive treatment ideologies in corrections.

Goal 2: Examine the U.S. legal system.

Diagram the legal process.
Outline the federal criminal justice system.
Outline the state criminal justice system.
Assess the impact of legislative initiatives on corrections.

Goal 3: Examine sentencing of criminals.

Illustrate sentencing alternatives.
Outline probation.
Outline parole.
Evaluate research data on effectiveness of probation and parole.
Compare the rights of prisoners with those of free citizens.

Goal 4: Examine the U.S. corrections system.

Explore the role of the correctional officer.
Compare the roles of line officers with those of supervisors.
Explain the roles of various support staff.
Profile the correctional offender.
Evaluate the impact of technology on corrections.
Evaluate the impact of professional associations on corrections.
Evaluate predictions for the future of corrections.