This course will examine the historical context, philosophical concepts, and major theories that have shaped corrections in the United States. Various sentencing options, correctional approaches and programs, the role of corrections in the larger criminal justice system, and contemporary correctional issues are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the effects of the corrections system on the individuals, families, and society (Formerly CJ 220).
Prerequisites
Completion of CJ& 101 or Instructor Permission
Quarters Offered
Spring
Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge or skills:
- Identify and effectively use a broad range of adult and juvenile corrections terminology.
- Describe the history of corrections and the theories of punishment, and these effects on current correctional policy and practices in the US.
- Compare the management of diverse inmate populations (i.e. race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.) and how the corrections field addresses these issues.
- Analyze how incarceration, supervision, and alternate sentencing affects individuals, families, and society.
- Discuss capital punishment.
- Examine the process through the correctional system from arrest to final release from custody or supervision.
- Compare the differences and similarities of various correctional facilities.
- Define correctional personnel roles, to include: command roles, management issues, and discretionary powers.
- Examine jail/prison life, to include (but not limited to): inmate norms, inmate rights, facility rules, inmate interactions, facility overcrowding, and violence.
- Explore factors that may reduce recidivism.
Institutional Outcomes
IO1 Communication: Students will be able to execute effective oral and written communication skills related to their discipline (e.g., report writing).
IO3 Human Relations/Workplace Skills: Students will be able to explain ethical decision making and know why high personal ethics is vital in criminal justice.
IO3 Human Relations/Workplace Skills: Students will be able to explain ethical decision making and know why high personal ethics is vital in criminal justice.
Course Content Outline
- The Correctional System: How And Why We Correct
- Types of Correctional Sanctions
- Correctional Practices
- Living In The Correctional Institution And Reentry To Society
- Alternatives to Incarceration
- Prisoners’ Rights
- Juvenile offenders and other special populations
- Correctional Challenges and Perspectives
Department Guidelines
PO4, PO5, PO6, and PO9 should be assessed.