As a criminal justice minor, you will be introduced to concepts of law and gain first-hand experiences with the criminal justice system and law enforcement.
The criminal justice minor will help to build communication, analytical, and organizational skills. You will become more familiar with the U.S. Constitution, the branches of Congress, and how the judicial system works. The criminal justice minor also promotes valuable life skills, such as evaluation methods, and critical thinking.
Castleton University also offers a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and an Associate's degree program.
These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
This minor is offered by the Criminal Justice Department.
| Code | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
CRJ 1010 |
Introduction to Criminal JusticeAn overview of the American criminal justice system, tracing its history and development and assessing its strengths and weaknesses. Roles of the agencies that comprise the criminal justice system (representing law enforcement, courts, and corrections) are examined. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
| Code | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
CRJ 2010 |
Law Enforcement in AmericaAn examination of the history and evolution of law enforcement in the United States. Among the topics examined in this course are: law enforcement careers; the police role; selection, recruitment, and training of personnel; occupational socialization & the police subculture; discretion; management and organizational behavior; and patrol/investigative functions. Other issues considered include police use of force; police-community relations, job stress, and corruption/ethical problems. Field observation is an essential component of this course and will include 6-8 hours of ride-along observations with police officers. Prerequisite: CRJ 1010 passed with a grade of "C" or better. Every semester |
3 |
CRJ 2020 |
American Judicial ProcessA course designed to provide students with an overview of the American judicial process; examining its history, structure, and operation. Topics considered include: court organization and administration; the courtroom "work group;" the trial and appellate processes; problems that plague the courts; and alternatives to courts for conflict resolution. Field observation is an essential component of this course. Students will be required to attend court for 8 hours, observing 4 hours of civil proceedings and 4 hours of criminal proceedings. Prerequisite: CRJ 1010 passed with a grade of "C" or better. Every semester |
3 |
CRJ 2080 |
Correctional Philosophies and PracticesAn interdisciplinary study of the historical and contemporary philosophies and practices of sentencing, punishment, and rehabilitation in American corrections. The course will be a comprehensive examination of all facets of institutional and community-based corrections, including facilities, probation, intermediate sanctions, and parole, as well as special and controversial issues in the field. Field study will be an essential component of this course and may include field trips, interviews and other research, guest speakers, and/or community service. Prerequisite: CRJ 1010 passed with a grade of “C” or better. Every semester |
3 |