This course introduces the learner to the field of criminology by reviewing the historical underpinnings of the modern-day study of crime and criminals, examining the theoretical causes of crime and criminality, and evaluating society's responses to crime. Learners are introduced to the sociological, biological, and psychological schools of criminological thought. Topics include crime statistics and social and legal mechanisms used to address criminal activity and the individual criminal.

This course focuses on situational crime prevention by both law enforcement personnel and the general public. Theoretical and practical aspects of techniques of situational prevention are examined. Students formulate their own theories on crime prevention and control, and evaluate methods for the reduction of crime and corresponding financial and social costs.

This course examines the United States Constitution and the New Hampshire Constitution using a substantive approach. Learners participate in a critical analysis of how both the United States Supreme Court and the New Hampshire Supreme Court deal with constitutional issues of major societal importance. The course also focuses on the historical development of constitutional law by studying the many diverse and often controversial matters with which the U.S. and NH Supreme Courts deal. An emphasis is placed on reading and analyzing leading constitutional case law and gaining in-depth knowledge of the relationship between the NH and U.S. Constitutions.

This capstone course is a field-based internship designed to develop and hone the practical application skills of a Criminal Justice major. The course requires students to integrate the knowledge and skills gained from other courses in the program and to demonstrate the ability to apply their knowledge to new subject matter and practical situations. Students apply for an internship at a self-selected site and negotiate the terms of the internship experience with a site supervisor under the auspices of their faculty mentor. The internship requires documented evidence of eighty hours of supervised experience and practice in a field setting where criminal-justice-related knowledge and skills are applied. NOTE: Registration for this course, an internship, is by permission of Academic Affairs. Early registration deadlines may apply. Prior to capstone enrollment, students are expected to complete the majority of their required major courses. Students should consult with their advisor regarding specific major courses that may be completed with their capstone. NOTE: Students who were admitted to the college before Fall 2019 and have remained active in their original catalog year are not required to take IDIS 601.