Criminology

This course is designed to introduce students to the various theories of criminology. The course will examine current theories about the nature and causes of criminal and deviant behavior and its relationship to the definition of crime and to the legal system. The impact of theories and empirical research on public policy designed to punish and deter crime will be discussed. The significance of criminological theories will be assessed within the context of the social, economic and political environment that influences the behavior of individuals, groups and institutions as well as the consequences of criminalizing behavior on various subgroups.

010686