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CRJ 118 Corrections in America

This course provides an introduction to the American corrections system, examining its historical roots, philosophical foundations, and modern-day practices. Students explore institutional and community-based correctional approaches, as well as the sentencing process. Ethical issues and current challenges in the field, such as mass incarceration and juvenile justice, are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on building foundational knowledge, while encouraging critical reflection on the role of corrections in the criminal justice system.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: CRJ 101

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

CRJ 118 Corrections in America

Campus Location

  • Dover
  • Georgetown
  • Stanton

Effective Date

202651

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: CRJ 101

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

3 lecture hours/week

0 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the American corrections system, examining its historical roots, philosophical foundations, and modern-day practices. Students explore institutional and community-based correctional approaches, as well as the sentencing process. Ethical issues and current challenges in the field, such as mass incarceration and juvenile justice, are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on building foundational knowledge, while encouraging critical reflection on the role of corrections in the criminal justice system.

Additional Materials

None

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Disclaimer

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Describe the historical development of the American correctional system. (CCC 1; PGC 1)

  2. Analyze the philosophies and goals of punishment. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 3)

  3. Evaluate correctional practices, including incarceration, parole, probation, and community-based alternatives. (CCC 1, 5; PGC 1, 3)

  4. Describe the process of sentencing. (CCC 1, 2, 5; PGC 1, 3, 4, 5)

  5. Examine contemporary challenges in corrections. (CCC 5; PGC 1)



See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Describe the historical development of the American correctional system.
    1. Compare and contrast the evolution of the American correctional system from early forms of punishment to modern-day institutions.
    2. Discuss key historical events, major reforms, and social changes that shaped corrections.
  2. Analyze the philosophies and goals of punishment.
    1. Describe the main theories of punishment in corrections, including deterrence, retribution, rehabilitation, and restorative justice.
    2. Examine the effectiveness of these philosophies in reducing crime and rehabilitating offenders.
  3. Evaluate correctional practices, including incarceration, parole, probation, and community-based alternatives.
    1. Assess the social, psychological, and economic effects of incarceration on offenders, their families, and communities.
    2. Explain the functions and roles of different types of correctional facilities within the criminal justice system.
    3. Describe the organization and daily operations of prisons and jails, including the roles of correctional officers and administrators.
    4. Analyze the differences between juvenile and adult corrections, focusing on the goals and treatment of juvenile offenders.
  4. Describe the process of sentencing.
    1. Explain how the Delaware Sentencing Accountability Commission (SENTAC) Sentencing Guidelines are created, modified, arranged, and used.
    2. Apply the Delaware SENTAC Sentencing Guidelines to case scenarios.
  5. Examine contemporary challenges in corrections.
    1. Describe the causes and consequences of mass incarceration in the United States, including the over-representation of minority populations.
    2. Explain ethical dilemmas faced by correctional staff, such as handling inmate misconduct, preventing abuse, and managing stress.
    3. Reflect on moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding the punishment of offenders, including the use of the death penalty, solitary confinement, and long-term imprisonment.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average


Evaluation Measure

Grade

Summative Assessments

Exam (2-3) (equally weighted)

30%

Pre-Sentence Investigation Memorandum Assignment

10%

Ethical Dilemma Scenario: Walking the Line

10%

Correctional Facility Crisis Group Simulation

10%

Formative Assessments

The course will contain various formative assessments, including but not limited to:

  • Quizzes

  • Assignments

  • Career research

  • Journals

  • Discussion boards

40%

Total

100%

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and homeland security.
  2. Analyze causes of adult and juvenile crime.
  3. Explain the importance of professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills in the field of criminal justice.
  4. Apply skills needed in investigation, report writing, and crisis intervention.
  5. Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to criminal justice, including cultural competence and trauma-informed care.


Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.

Academic Integrity

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Academics/Academic-Integrity

Attendance

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/current/catalog/academics/attendance

Cell phone/Electronic Device

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Student-Policy/Cell-Phone-and-Electronic-Device-Policy

Tuition Adjustment Policy

https://dtcc.smartcatalogiq.com/Current/Catalog/Financial/Tuition-Fee-Adjustment-Policy-Course-or-Semester-Withdrawal