We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
UPDATE: All my courses now come with custom Certificate of Completion.
Read more
UPDATE: All my courses now come with custom Certificate of Completion.
Read more
UPDATE: All my courses now come with custom Certificate of Completion.
This course teaches the basic structure and function of the American Criminal Justice System. It provides a basic overview of legal processes, law enforcement, terrorism, courts, corrections, community corrections, and juvenile justice. It provides students the understanding to move on to more advanced courses within the fields of Criminal Justice or Sociology. While this course is made from an American perspective, the lessons will be useful to people of all countries, as all modern societies need to perform the policing, law, and corrections functions. It is a good starter course for my other course offerings (such as Cybercrime, Comparative Criminal Justice, Human Rights, Criminological Theory, etc.), although not required. Lectures: Rights and Social ControlThe Criminal Justice SystemThe Legal ProcessHistory and ChangesDeterrence and Rational ChoiceBiological and Psychological TheoriesSociological TheoryThe UCR and NCVSVictimologyThe LawDefensesLaw Enforcement 1 Law Enforcement 2Law Enforcement 3 Warrants and Other Justifications for Searches and Seizures Court CasesTerrorism Controversies in the War on TerrorCourtsThe Federal Court System Trials SentencingPurposes of Punishment The Death PenaltyThe History of CorrectionsModern Prisons and Jails Prison Controversies and Problems Leaving PrisonRe-entry Juvenile Justice, History, and Court Cases Juvenile Trials and Gangs
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/k69erx/introduction
13 deals to help you save
We found 13 deals and offers that may be relevant to this course.
Save money when you learn.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Use code at checkout.
Valid until December 3
Cyber Monday
Develop career-changing skills with these steeply discounted courses.
Up to
85%
off
BFCMSALE24
Use code at checkout.
Only 20 hours left!
Black Friday
Develop career-changing skills with these steeply discounted courses.
Up to
85%
off
BFCMSALE24
Use code at checkout.
Valid until December 1
For new customers
Save when you purchase top courses. For new customers only.
Special Offer
UDEAFNULP2024
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores core legal processes, which is standard in the criminal justice field
Provides a good foundation for more advanced courses in criminal justice or sociology
Covers terrorism, a highly relevant topic in today's world
Examines history and changes in the criminal justice system, offering historical context
Explores a range of criminological theories, providing a solid theoretical foundation
Provides an overview of corrections, an essential component of the criminal justice system
Save this course
Save Introduction to Criminal Justice to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Introductory criminal justice course
Learners say that Introduction to Criminal Justice is an easy-to-follow and well-structured course that is great for beginners. Sal, the instructor, is knowledgeable and engaging, and she presents the material in a clear and concise way.
The course is well-structured and easy to follow.
"I like the way the course is set up."
"It is an informative class that gives great feedback."
"Well-structured."
Course material is easy to understand for beginners.
"Loved the course. It was easy to learn as I am a beginner."
"Easy to understand for beginners."
"It was great course for beginners."
Sal is an experienced and knowledgeable instructor.
"Sal's background as a teacher really shows in the way she structures her courses and in the way she produces the content."
"Super informative AND actually taught from the heart instead of just reading from a book like I've experienced on other courses on Udemy."
"Sal Jade teaches every aspect of the deck, leaving nothing out."
"She makes the material engaging and easy to understand."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Criminal Justice with these
activities:
Review Criminal Justice System
Show steps
Refresh prior knowledge of the American Criminal Justice System to establish a firm foundation for studying.
Show steps
-
Review lecture notes and textbooks from previous courses or certifications.
-
Take practice quizzes or exams to test understanding.
Review 'Criminal Justice in America' by George F. Cole
Show steps
Gain in-depth knowledge of the American Criminal Justice System by reviewing a comprehensive textbook.
View
Criminal Justice in America (MindTap Course...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and take notes on the book.
-
Complete chapter summaries or concept maps.
Find a Criminal Justice Mentor
Show steps
Connect with experienced professionals for guidance and support in navigating the field.
Show steps
-
Attend networking events and conferences.
-
Reach out to criminal justice professionals via LinkedIn or email.
-
Ask for advice and mentorship.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Criminal Justice System Flowchart
Show steps
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Criminal Justice System by creating a visual representation.
Browse courses on
Criminal Justice System
Show steps
-
Identify key stages and components of the Criminal Justice System.
-
Create a flowchart that connects and illustrates the processes and transitions.
Case Analysis Practice
Show steps
Develop analytical skills by practicing case analysis using real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Case Analysis
Show steps
-
Find case studies or court documents online.
-
Read and analyze the case, identifying key facts and legal issues.
-
Write a brief summary of the case and your analysis.
-
Discuss your analysis with peers or a mentor.
Volunteer at a Local Non-profit
Show steps
Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge by volunteering with organizations related to criminal justice.
Show steps
-
Research and identify non-profit organizations working in the field.
-
Contact organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend training and orientation sessions.
-
Participate in volunteer activities.
Review Criminal Justice System
Show steps
Refresh prior knowledge of the American Criminal Justice System to establish a firm foundation for studying.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review lecture notes and textbooks from previous courses or certifications.
- Take practice quizzes or exams to test understanding.
Review 'Criminal Justice in America' by George F. Cole
Show steps
Gain in-depth knowledge of the American Criminal Justice System by reviewing a comprehensive textbook.
View
Criminal Justice in America (MindTap Course...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and take notes on the book.
- Complete chapter summaries or concept maps.
Find a Criminal Justice Mentor
Show steps
Connect with experienced professionals for guidance and support in navigating the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend networking events and conferences.
- Reach out to criminal justice professionals via LinkedIn or email.
- Ask for advice and mentorship.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Create a Criminal Justice System Flowchart
Show steps
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Criminal Justice System by creating a visual representation.
Browse courses on
Criminal Justice System
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify key stages and components of the Criminal Justice System.
- Create a flowchart that connects and illustrates the processes and transitions.
Case Analysis Practice
Show steps
Develop analytical skills by practicing case analysis using real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Case Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find case studies or court documents online.
- Read and analyze the case, identifying key facts and legal issues.
- Write a brief summary of the case and your analysis.
- Discuss your analysis with peers or a mentor.
Volunteer at a Local Non-profit
Show steps
Gain practical experience and apply your knowledge by volunteering with organizations related to criminal justice.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify non-profit organizations working in the field.
- Contact organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend training and orientation sessions.
- Participate in volunteer activities.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Criminal Justice will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Police Officer
Police Officer
Police Officers are responsible for enforcing the law, preventing crime, and protecting the public. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system, which can be beneficial for Police Officers in understanding the legal framework within which they operate.
Legal Assistant
Legal Assistant
Legal Assistants, also called paralegals, assist attorneys by performing a variety of legal tasks. These responsibilities can include conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and managing case files. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides a strong foundation for a career as a Legal Assistant by providing an overview of the structure and function of the criminal justice system, as well as the legal processes involved in criminal cases.
Criminal Investigator
Criminal Investigator
Criminal Investigators investigate crimes and gather evidence to help law enforcement agencies solve crimes. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including the role of criminal investigators, which can be valuable for Criminal Investigators in understanding the context of their work.
Juvenile Justice Counselor
Juvenile Justice Counselor
Juvenile Justice Counselors work with juvenile offenders to provide guidance and support, and to help them make positive choices. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of juvenile justice, including the legal processes involved in juvenile cases, which can be valuable for Juvenile Justice Counselors in understanding the context of their work.
Crime Analyst
Crime Analyst
Crime Analysts collect and analyze data on crime patterns to help law enforcement agencies develop crime prevention strategies. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides a foundation in criminology and criminal behavior, which can be valuable for Crime Analysts in understanding the data they are analyzing.
Security Consultant
Security Consultant
Security Consultants assess and mitigate security risks for businesses and organizations. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides a foundation in criminology and criminal behavior, which can be valuable for Security Consultants in understanding the threats they are mitigating.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientists analyze evidence in criminal cases to help solve crimes. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including the role of forensic science, which can be valuable for Forensic Scientists in understanding the context of their work.
Law Librarian
Law Librarian
Law Librarians provide research and reference assistance to attorneys, judges, and other legal professionals. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the legal process and the criminal justice system, which can be valuable for Law Librarians in understanding the legal context of their work.
Court Reporter
Court Reporter
Court Reporters create a verbatim record of legal proceedings using stenography or other recording methods. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the legal process, including the role of court reporters, which can be valuable for Court Reporters in understanding the context of their work.
Probation Officer
Probation Officer
Probation Officers supervise and provide guidance to offenders who have been sentenced to probation. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including the role of probation officers, which can be valuable for Probation Officers in understanding the context of their work.
Correctional Officer
Correctional Officer
Correctional Officers are responsible for supervising and providing care to inmates in correctional facilities. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an understanding of the criminal justice system, including the role of corrections, which can be valuable for Correctional Officers in carrying out their duties.
Parole Officer
Parole Officer
Parole Officers supervise and provide guidance to offenders who have been released from prison or jail. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including the role of parole officers, which can be valuable for Parole Officers in understanding the context of their work.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers provide support and guidance to individuals and families who are facing challenges, including those who have been involved in the criminal justice system. The Introduction to Criminal Justice course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, which can be valuable for Social Workers in understanding the context of their work.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers, particularly those who teach civics or social studies, may find the Introduction to Criminal Justice course helpful in providing an overview of the criminal justice system. This knowledge can be valuable in teaching students about the law and the role of the criminal justice system in society.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists who cover crime and the criminal justice system may find the Introduction to Criminal Justice course helpful in providing an overview of the criminal justice system. This knowledge can be valuable in understanding the stories they are covering and in providing accurate information to the public.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/k69erx/introduction
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Criminal Justice.
A tremendously impactful modern book that delves deeply into mass incarceration and racial bias, this book is an important text for anyone interested in criminal justice today.
A memoir by a lawyer who has dedicated his carear to defending the poor, this book deeply personal and infuriating look at the modern justice system, and how it fails many of those it interacts with.
Save
A groundbreaking work that calls for a fundamental rethinking of policing in the United States.
Save
A classic work by a leading abolitionist thinker, this book argues that prisons are not only ineffective at reducing crime but also a major source of social harm.
This solid introduction to the topic of cybercrime. It will prove excellent supplementary reading for the course.
Save
An important book that will give the reader a thorough overview of the racial and ethnic biases extant in the criminal justice system, this book will provide excellent background for the course.
Save
From Oxford's Very Short Introduction series, this slim volume provides a very clear, useful introduction to the phenomenon of terrorism.
Save
A good resource for statistics about the justice system, this will provide solid background facts for the course.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/k69erx/introduction
Share
Similar courses
Here are nine courses similar to
Introduction to Criminal Justice.
Justice
OpenCourser.com/course/fut1ph/justic
Justice
Most relevant
Comparative Criminal Justice
OpenCourser.com/course/3wow3y/comparative
Comparative Criminal Justice
Most relevant
The Psychology of Criminal Justice
OpenCourser.com/course/6nc5hu/the
The Psychology of Criminal Justice
Most relevant
Leaders in Citizen Security and Justice Management
OpenCourser.com/course/zonecy/leaders
Leaders in Citizen Security and Justice Management
Most relevant
Basic Japanese Civil Law
OpenCourser.com/course/fto92v/basic
Basic Japanese Civil Law
Most relevant
Russian Trademark Law in Global Perspective
OpenCourser.com/course/zp01aq/russian
Russian Trademark Law in Global Perspective
Most relevant
De-escalation for Law Enforcement
OpenCourser.com/course/in62j4/de
De-escalation for Law Enforcement
Most relevant
Introduction to English Common Law
OpenCourser.com/course/6h7qd3/introduction
Introduction to English Common Law
Most relevant
Human Rights and International Criminal Law: An Introduction
OpenCourser.com/course/29e1yu/human
Human Rights and International Criminal Law: An...
Most relevant
Effort
11 total hours
Via
Udemy
Good to know
Explores core legal processes, which is standard in the criminal justice field
Provides a good foundation for more advanced courses in criminal justice or sociology
Covers terrorism, a highly relevant topic in today's world
Examines history and changes in the criminal justice system, offering historical context
Explores a range of criminological theories, providing a solid theoretical foundation
Provides an overview of corrections, an essential component of the criminal justice system
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser