Syllabus

INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE     CRCJ2334        Spring 2005             

Instructor:                                                                   Course information:

Dr. Shari Julian                                                 `          Monday, Wednesday & Friday

Office: 324 University Hall                                           10:00 to 10:50 A.M.

Phone: 817-272-3318                                                 Room UH 001

Message center: 817-267-1510

Email: sjulian@uta.edu                                                Office Hours: (or by appointment)

sharijulian@charter.net                                                Monday & Wednesday  11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. 

Course Materials:

The following textbooks are required:

The American System of Criminal Justice (10^th edition). Cole & Smith authors.

The student is required to provide a minimum of 15 articles to illustrate recognition of issues pertaining to the subject of criminal justice. THIS WORKS OUT TO A MINIMUM OF 1 PER WEEK. These articles will be from credible sources. Academic Journals and databases, professional journals, newspapers, and web sites of valid news organizations are examples of credible sources. A bibliography must be included for multiple articles submitted simultaneously and all papers will be stapled in the top left corner with the student’s name and course number and designation prominently displayed on the top of each page. No credit will be given for any article without a name and course designation.

On occasion, the student will also be supplied with copies of articles provided by the instructor as an introduction to that day’s lecture. These articles do not count toward the student’s total of submitted articles. 

My Website:

The CRCJ Department of UTA maintains web space for all faculty. My space can be accessed by going to the UTA web site and clicking on Academics & Research/ Colleges, Schools & Departments/ Criminology & Criminal Justice/ Faculty/ Shari Julian. You will find articles, resources and web links to valuable information sources necessary to get the most out of this course. I encourage you to access these materials. 

Course Description:

An overview of the American criminal justice system will be provided with an emphasis of the component parts including; history, development, law enforcement, prosecution & defense, courts, trial procedures, and corrections.  

Course Objectives:

Exposure to the various aspects of the criminal justice system will give the student a working knowledge of society’s efforts to deal with crime and criminals. The students should be able to discuss the current methods of crime control, the differences between the juvenile and adult systems, the political aspects of justice, and have an understanding of the historical aspects. 

Attendance:

Attendance is required and a grade is given for daily participation. Students who fail to attend a minimum of 75% of the scheduled classes will be deficient in participation and as a result will have their final grade dropped 1 letter grade. In the event that a class is missed the student is still responsible for the day’s materials as well as any reading or homework assignments. It is suggested that class notes be obtained from a fellow student with their permission. The instructor’s class notes will not be available for copying. 

Tardiness:

This class is going to feature several prominent guest speakers. It is important that we present a professional attitude and respect for their time and contribution. Therefore it is important to be on time and seated when class begins. Late arrivals will not be seated after the speaker begins their program. 

Pop Quizzes:

There will be many short pop quizzes given randomly. These will be administered during the first 5 minutes of class. Late arrivals will not be allowed to take the quiz. This will be reflected in the daily grades. Students must purchase and have on hand sufficient Scanatron cards to be able to take a quiz when offered. Success depends on being current on the reading and class materials.                                   

Accommodation:

Any student who requires a special accommodation due to a disability, or if you have emergency health information, please notify the instructor and we will make every effort to meet your needs.

Academic Integrity:

Plagiarism is strictly forbidden by University policy and described in the 2003-2005 Undergraduate Catalog on page 35 as well as at http://www.uta.edu/studentaffairs/judicialaffairs/academic_integrity.php. Any instances of plagiarism will be reported to the Departmental Chairman and will be dealt with according to University policy.

Course Requirements and Grading:

Students are expected to complete the reading assignments by the scheduled class meeting and are responsible for the material covered in the text and class notes. All assignments will be turned in on time. Tests will be taken as scheduled. Evidence of a valid excuse will be required for permission to take a make up test. Valid excuses include: A death in the family, doctor’s appointment or hospitalization. A phone call or voice message PRIOR to missing the test goes a long way in establishing legitimacy. 

Grading Format:

POP QUIZZES, CLASS PARTICIPATION & HOMEWORK- 30 POINTS

1 MIDTERM- 20 POINTS

1 RESEARCH PAPER- 10 POINTS

ARTICLES- 15 POINTS

FINAL- 25 POINTS 

Every effort will be made to adhere to the attached schedule. In the event that changes occur they will be announced during class. 

COURSE SCHEDULE:                Lecture & Reading Assignment: