BCJ 100
Introduction to Criminal Justice
Online Course
BCJ 100 Introduction to Criminal Justice
3 Semester Units
Introduction to Criminal Justice aims to provide students with a general understanding of the criminal justice system’s response to crime in society. It is important to note that the general theme of this course involves the delicate balance between community interests and individual rights that criminal justice decision-making requires. This theme will be explored by examining the criminal justice process, focusing on how the system is structured to respond to crime.
Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the nature and extent of crime and discuss the foundations of law and the criminal justice system.
- Examine law enforcement from the history of policing through to contemporary issues and challenges confronting the profession.
- Describe the role of the courts in the criminal justice system and the process of prosecution, criminal trial, and sentencing.
- Discuss the key aspects of corrections including its history, community and institutional corrections, prison life, and parole.
- Examine special issues in criminal justice related to juvenile justice, terrorism, human trafficking, hate crimes, and the #MeToo Movement.
- Demonstrate proficiency with academic writing related to criminal justice.
If you are interested in taking this course, please explore a degree or certificate program below:
> Explore Criminal Justice Programs> Explore General Studies Programs
CCU Online Courses FAQ
No. At this time, students may only enroll in a certificate or degree program and cannot enroll into a single course. We urge you to Explore All Programs to find a certificate or degree program best suited to your needs.
All of our programs are self-paced. This means you can complete your coursework as quickly or as slowly as your schedule permits as long as you complete one course every six months to remain an active student in good standing.
This course is structured into four units and a final exam. Each unit has a required essay and an open book multiple-choice exam.
Yes. Every course in the educational programs offered at California Coast University requires an assigned textbook. To assist students in managing the high costs of textbooks, CCU offers a rental library for all required texts.
Students can also obtain textbooks in their local areas or through online sources if they do not wish to utilize the University's rental library. There are many resources on the web for renting, purchasing, and selling textbooks. If you would like to purchase your textbooks, or are interested in exploring other delivery methods (digital or pdf versions), we have compiled a handy Textbook Resource Page for students who wish to explore other options.
Students can also obtain textbooks in their local areas or through online sources if they do not wish to utilize the University's rental library. There are many resources on the web for renting, purchasing, and selling textbooks. If you would like to purchase your textbooks, or are interested in exploring other delivery methods (digital or pdf versions), we have compiled a handy Textbook Resource Page for students who wish to explore other options.
Yes. California Coast University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency.
Please contact us. You can also download a CCU Brochure or complete a Request For Information Form Online.
