Updated 2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog | 20255
Justice Studies Courses
JUST 1000 Introduction to Peace and Justice Studies (3 credits)
This course broadly introduces students to peace, conflict, and justice studies. What is peace? What is justice? Is conflict inevitable? The course contextualizes violent versus non-violent action, victimization, structural conflict, and conflict transformation from the local to global levels. It explores the potential to effect public policy, social change, and solutions that may impact marginalized communities. Also examined are human rights, ethics, and civic responsibility. [Core Curriculum Goal Area 9]
Common Course Outline
JUST 3307 Victimological Theory and Practice (3 credits)
This course focuses on victimological theories and the philosophic study of victims and victimity. Short- and long-term impacts of victimization, as well as victim-centered practices and services, are explored. Additional topics may include advocative movements for the recognition and enhancement of victims' rights in the United States, including increased involvement and influence throughout the judicial processing of a criminal case. Prerequisites: (CRJS 1120 and Junior status) or consent of instructor. [Core Curriculum Goal Area(s) 5 & 7.]
Common Course Outline
JUST 3377 Forensic Victimology (3 credits)
This course focuses on the forensic and scientific study of victims, emphasizing the response of police, medical professionals, and social agencies during the investigative and judicial processes. Accentuates methods used to collect, preserve, and analyze evidence relative to victims and victimizations. Examines controversial yet critical considerations in an objective investigative process, such as victim precipitation, victim characteristics and profiles, lifestyle and situational exposures, false allegations, and false confessions. Prerequisites: (CRJS 1120 and Junior status) or consent of instructor.
Common Course Outline
JUST 3407 Global Perspectives in Victimology (3 credits)
This course examines the diverse and complex nature of victim-related concerns in global and/or comparative context. It explores the variable nature of the definition, involvement, treatment, and/or restoration of victims across governmental, social, and cultural confines. Theoretical developments and emerging practices in victimology from a global perspective are described. Ethnocentric perceptions are probed, and critical thinking regarding victims' roles and needs within justice systems is promoted. [Core Curriculum Goal Area(s) 8]
Common Course Outline
JUST 4477 Restorative Justice (3 credits)
This course explores core principles and implementation of restorative justice programs, including a review of benefits and potential challenges of such an approach. Examines how the approach encourages effective problem solving and conflict resolution, with the potential for reconciliation and healing of all stakeholders. It examines the unique roles, needs, and desired restorations of victims, offenders, and the community.
Common Course Outline