stem cell research, particularly in the topics of leukemia, spinal cord injuries, Alzheimer’s disease, cord blood, and drug testing. The course culminates with the investigation of the accuracy, validity, and reliability of scientific research and claims.
Public, Protective & Government Services
Criminology: Inside the Criminal Mind
SWeD (1 semester, .5 credit, prerequisite none)
In today’s world, crime and deviant behavior rank at or near the top of many people’s concerns. In this course, we will study the field of Criminology – the study of crime. We will look at possible explanations for crime from the standpoint of psychological, biological and sociological perspectives, explore the categories and social consequences of crime, and investigate how the criminal justice system handles not only criminals, but also their misdeeds. Why do some individuals commit crimes why others do not? What aspects in our culture and society promote crime and deviance? Why are different punishments given for the same crime? What factors…from arrest to punishment…help shape the criminal case process?
Forensic Science I: Secrets of the Dead
SWeD (1 semester, .5 credit, prerequisite none)
Fingerprints. Blood spatter. DNA analysis. The world of law enforcement is increasingly making use of the techniques and knowledge from the sciences to better understand the crimes that are committed and to catch those individuals responsible for the crimes. Forensic science applies scientific knowledge to the criminal justice system. This course focuses on some of the techniques and practices used by forensic scientists during a crime scene investigation (CSI). Starting with how clues and data are recorded and preserved, the student will follow evidence trails until the CSI goes to trial, examining how various elements of the crime scene are analyzed and processed.
Forensic Science II: More Secrets of the Dead
SWeD (1 semester, .5 credit prerequisite Forensic Science I)
Although the crime scene represents the first step in solving crimes through forensic science, the crime laboratory plays a critical role in the analysis of evidence. This course focuses on the analysis of evidence and testing that takes place within this setting. We will examine some of the basic scientific principles and knowledge that guides forensic laboratory