Criminal Justice 320

CRJU 320: Criminal Investigative Theory

Prerequisites: CRJU 100

Credit Hours: (3)

Study of criminal investigative theory essential to the solution of crime, including crime scene processing, interviewing and crime specific solution strategies.

Note(s): Applied Learning designated course.

Detailed Description of Content of the Course

Topics for discussion may include, but are not limited to:

1. Elements of a crime
2. Methods of investigation
3. Interviews and Interrogations
4. Confessions and admissions
5. Crime scene searches
6. Photographing the crime scene
7. Crime scene sketches
8. Evidence collection and preservation
9. Missing persons
10. Surveillance
11. Arson investigation
12. Investigation of sexual crimes
13. Theft investigation
14. Burglary investigation
15. Robbery investigation
16. Homicide investigation


Detailed Description of Conduct of the Course

The course will be conducted by lecture, discussion, and labs, where appropriate. Attention will be devoted to physical evidence in the form of recognition, preservation and analysis.

 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

The primary objectives and goals of this course are as follows:

1. To describe each step in the criminal investigative process.
2. To explain the investigative needs specific to particular types of crime.
3. To critically evaluate the assumptions, principles, and practices, that underlie criminal investigations, with an emphasis on improvement of the investigative process.
4. To apply the principles of law and scientific evidence to the investigative process
5. To reflect on their learning, abilities, experiences, or role within professional contexts

Assessment Measures

Knowledge and understanding of the material covered in this course, as well as the ability to apply it to real life situations, may be measured using an array of assessment tools that include, but are not limited to, tests, quizzes, lab activities, formal writing assignments, informal writing assignments, and formal and/or informal oral presentations.


Other Course Information

None
 

Review and Approval

2012

July 2005, Reviewed by Dr. Isaac Van Patten, Department Chair

March 01, 2021