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Pennsylvania Western University · Courses

CRJ

36 courses with the subject CRJ, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.

CRJ 1000Intro to Criminal Justice3

The course covers the nature, scope and impact of crime in the United States; independent and interdependent operations and procedures of police, courts and corrections; and introductory theories of crime and delinquency. The course introduces the justice model in a systematic way whereby students delve into the numerous components of the justice system, including law enforcement, legal and judicial process and correctional operations. Career opportunities will be fully covered throughout the course.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 1040Intro to Security Systems3

The various dimensions of security include physical, personal, and operational measures. Security professionals must not only prevent unauthorized access to equipment, installations, material, and documents; and safeguard against espionage, sabotage, damage, and theft, but protect VIPs from kidnapping and assassination and employees from discussing operational plans from the workplace. All public, private, corporate, and government agencies face new and complex security challenges across the full spectrum of operations. Globalization and new security threats challenge security operations, and could include the control of populations, information dominance, multinational and inter-agency connectivity, anti-terrorism or counter terrorism, target hardening, VIP protection and the use of other physical-security assets as a versatile force multiplier. This course will prepare the security and justice professional to operate in any environment that requires a need for complex coordination and security measures.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 1050Intro to Forensic Science3

Forensic science applies scientific principles and techniques to the field of criminal justice. This introductory survey course is designed to expose students to the broad scope of forensic science. Special attention is paid to the collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence in criminal investigations across various scientific disciplines, as well as the introduction and presentation of evidence in a court of law. Topics discussed include: (a) the history of criminalistics; (b) crime scene documentation and investigative practices; c) the properties, collection, and categorization of physical evidence; e.g. fingerprints, bodily fluids (serology), DNA, hair, soil, plants, fiber, tool marks, firearms and projectiles (ballistics); (d) the analysis of documents, voice, and digital evidence; (e) biometric identification systems; (f) scientific instruments used in crime labs; (g) forensic evidence in judicial proceedings; and, (h) careers in the field of forensic science.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 1100Introduction to Criminology3

Examines historical and contemporary attempts to explain the origins of criminal behavior and society’s reaction to it from a variety of perspectives. Provides students with an understanding of how these theories have influenced the present criminal justice systems.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 2100Policing and Society3

An introduction to the law enforcement system in America, which is the gateway to the criminal justice process, this course covers topics such as the historical foundations of police processes, occupational roles and tasks of law enforcement, and the nature and designs of typical, as well as innovative, police systems. Perennial problems of policing, particularly as it relates to community interaction, are also essential components of the course.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 2110Principles Homeland Security3

Students will gain an understanding of homeland security by analyzing the various security principles and policies that establish a foundation upon which to organize U.S. security efforts as a nation. Students will study how the national strategy aligns and focuses homeland security functions within critical areas such as: (1) intelligence and warning, border and transportation security, domestic terrorism; (2) protecting critical infrastructure and defending against catastrophic terrorism; and (3) emergency preparedness and consequence management. The first area focuses primarily on preventing terrorist attacks, the second area on reducing the nation’s vulnerabilities, and the third on minimizing the damage and recovery from the aftermath of terrorist attacks.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 2150Victimology3

This course will examine issues surrounding the central character in a criminal act, the victim. Contents are designed to develop an understanding of what it means to be victimized, including the physical, psychological and economic impact of crime upon victims, their families and society in general. Special consideration will be given to specific victim populations (i.e., survivors of homicides, sexual assault and family violence), secondary victimization by the criminal system, victim assistance program, and future trends in this field. A full review of how the American justice system has responded to the needs of victims is part of the course content and includes a look at victim testimony at sentencing and parole and probation hearings, victim notification, Megan’s Law, victim advisory and protection services, and other means in which the judicial system assures victim participation during the adjudicative phase.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 2200Correctional Systems3

Correctional Systems is an introductory course that examines how American society chooses to treat its criminal offenders. Students learn about the history and development of punishment and correctional systems. Students are exposed to the theoretical and philosophical foundations of punishment including retribution, deterrence, incapacitation, rehabilitation and restorative justice. The course provides a broad overview of the American correctional system which incarcerates, treats criminal personalities, and protects the community by removing threats to the social order.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 2300Criminal Investigation3

This course exposes students to the fundamentals of the forensic investigative process and the range of skills necessary for the successful performance and management of investigations, including evidence gathering, collection and analysis, witness assessment, field techniques, and linkage between investigations.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 2650Report Writing for CJ Profs3

This course examines the characteristics and importance of good report writing within the criminal justice system. Reports used in law enforcement and security, the courts, and corrections are explained and discussed. Elements of composition, required substance, proper and improper conclusions, and descriptions of persons and property are explained. Practice in writing reports is emphasized and proficiency must be demonstrated.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3080Organized Crime3

This course covers the historical, criminological/theoretical, legal, investigative, and juridical aspects of domestic and transnational organized crime. It includes traditional organized crime such as La Cosa Nostra, as well emerging nontraditional associations such as outlaw motorcycle groups and relationships with terrorist organizations. Studies will blend the scholarship surrounding organized crime with practical, contemporary investigative tools used to combat associated criminal activity such as racketeering, narcotics and dangerous drugs, syndicated gambling, and public corruption.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3090White Collar Crime3

This course considers crimes committed by corporations as well as white-collar criminals: how such crimes are defined; who commits or is victimized by them; which moral, ethical, legal and social contexts promote them; and how society responds. Procedural and policy considerations in the investigation and enforcement of relevant statutes will also be covered, including the concept of legal privilege, the role of the grand jury and other pretrial processes, evidentiary questions, litigation strategies, and potential sanctions and other punishments.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3400Juvenile Justice3

This course covers the juvenile justice system, with special emphasis on the way it procedurally differs from adult offender adjudication. The juvenile justice system, including hearings, due process standards, and constitutional mandates are fully reviewed. Status offenders and other youth classifications are considered with a historical summary of juvenile court philosophy. New trends in the procedural disposition of juveniles, especially transfer to adult jurisdiction, types of punishment and treatment, and suitability of the death penalty, are discussed.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3410Legal Liability for CJ Profs3

This required course will provide insight into both civil and criminal legal liability issues facing criminal justice practitioners. Specific and current legal topics for those working in the key areas of the criminal justice system will be examined. Federal civil rights actions, tort actions, and criminal sanctions, against law enforcement, corrections, and court system personnel will be examined in detail.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 3750
CRJ 3450Probation and Parole3

This course examines the theory and practices of probation and parole with juvenile and adult offenders, including release philosophy, bail and petition, hearings on grant, revocation or denial, alternative community-based corrections, and legal issues that emerge in award revocation or imposition of probation and parole.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3650Mock Trial Concepts3

Courtroom procedures used in criminal and civil trial courts are studied as students examine the courtroom environment through guided reading and critical evaluation of a mock trial case study. Students are expected to participate in simulated mock trial proceedings in the classroom with an emphasis on the roles of law enforcement, attorneys, prosecutors, forensics, and expert witnesses in the trial process. This course requires both independent work product and team collaboration. It is recommended for students pursuing careers in legal fields, law enforcement, and forensics.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3700Special Populations in CJ3

This required course provides a detailed look at various special populations that have been impacted and continue to be impacted by the American Criminal Justice System. Some groups to be examined include various racial and ethnic groups, the elderly, females, juveniles, the mentally ill, and the mentally disabled.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 1000
CRJ 3740Court Systems3

This course examines American federal and state criminal court systems. Students analyze court procedures that uphold the rights and liberties of both the accused and victims. Emphasis is placed on criminal court processes, jurisdiction, and the roles of criminal justice practitioners within the courts.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3750Substantive Criminal Law3

An introduction to substantive criminal law that reviews the social, philosophical and legal foundations of criminal codification, the course also covers the historical development of criminal law in the U.S. Other subject matter includes parties to crimes, including principals/accessories, criminal capacity, criminal elements (e.g., mensrea and actusreus), and the specific crimes against person, property and public order. Lastly, the course captures criminal law from the defendant’s perspective by reviewing the accused’s mental states, potential defenses and uses of mitigation.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3760Criminal Procedure3

Criminal Procedure is the study of the criminal justice process including the law of arrests, search and seizure; the making of bail; adjudication; pretrial and post-trial activities; and the nature of plea bargaining. Substantial emphasis is given to the constitutional protections afforded through the Bill of Rights, particularly the 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th and 14th. This course deals extensively with case law applications of these principles and the role of judge and jurist in the crafting of criminal process standards. This is a writing intensive course.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 1000
CRJ 3800Crime Scene Imaging3

This course is designed to expose students to the crime scene imaging process while learning traditional film, video and digital imaging techniques. Techniques and methods of crime scene imaging focus on practical exercises as well as general viewports of crime scene documentation. Topics include the fundamentals of photographing scenes from general to specific utilizing the overall, middle range and close-up “three-step” method. Crime scene imaging techniques, both basic and advanced, will be discussed and practiced while photographing mock crime scenes. The advanced technique of crime scene imaging includes the use of digital cameras; the digital darkroom; crime scene panorama; creation of court charts; and the enhancement and analysis of latent prints, footwear, tire impressions, questioned documents, security video image enhancement and restoration, etc

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3840Problems in Policing3

This course involves discussion and study of specific problems of law enforcement and policing in contemporary American society. It emphasizes the development, nature and function of law enforcement as it relates to public criminal justice rather than private sector justice. Topical coverage consists of ethics, corruption, deadly force and civil liabilities, and other dilemmas commonly faced in the modern police system.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3850Crime and the Media3

This course will analyze media violence and its potential influence on various audiences. Specific variables will be examined in relation to aggression and consequently, violence. Violence will be examined within different media contexts - including news, film, television, pornography, advertising and Internet. The daily repetition of media violence will also be examined as it promotes the normalization and legitimization of violent behaviors. This course will also examine violence and aggression in relation to its historical, cultural, and contemporary influences and sources.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3870Computer Forensics3

This course is designed to expose students to legal and technical aspects of computer forensics. The methods of the collection, preservation, analysis and presentation of digital evidence will be presented to properly conduct a computer forensics investigation. The focus of this course will be on how law enforcement obtains electronic evidence, maintaining the evidentiary chain, as well as the legal aspects of the search and seizures of computers and related materials.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 3990Special Topics in CJ3

Focused examinations of an emerging and dynamic problem or issue are in the study and practice of criminal justice. Special subject matter not ordinarily covered in the existing curricula can be presented by interested faculty. Examples include but are not limited to: alternative punishment schemes, euthanasia and mercy killing, civil disobedience and the rule of law, minorities in the justice system, affirmative action policy, and police use of force and women in criminal justice.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4050Cyber Security3

Many aspects of our lives rely on the Internet and computers, including digital media communications (email, cell phones, texting, social media), government records, financial information, personal medical record. How are the data and the computer systems on which that data resides kept safe? The increasing volume and sophistication of cyber security threats including cyber terrorism, targeting phishing scams, identity theft, and other online vulnerabilities-demand that we remain vigilant about securing our homeland, computer systems and personal information. Cyber security is an emerging area within the criminal justice/homeland security discipline. This course is designed to expose students to legal and technical aspects of cyber security. Students are able to learn and apply their knowledge and skills to identify and address the risks and damages associated with, digital fraud and cyber crimes, including computer crime, cyber terrorism, identity theft, cyber hacking and cyber virus and malicious code.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4100Multiculturalism and the Criminal Justice System3

Students examine unique issues raised by race, ethnicity, and gender when analyzed in relationship to crime and the criminal justice system.This course covers the cultural needs of the criminal justice system and the criminal justice professional to operate in a heterogeneous society. It considers issues related to improving professional performance in dealing with individuals from different ethnic backgrounds, religions, races, and other protected classes in the United States.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4200Leadership and Ethics in Criminal Justice3

This course is a survey of ethical issues for practitioners within the criminal justice system and the principles and theories of effective leadership. Topics include: styles of leadership, the leadership framework, ethics of decision-making, and the ethical dilemmas that those working in criminal justice.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4290Terrorism3

This course examines current terrorism, its origins and ideological bases, with particular attention to its relation to political institutions and the criminal justice process. Specific attention is given methods and means of the terrorist, motivations and modus operandi trends and predictability, and law enforcement’s multifaceted reactions to its many devious forms. Legislative efforts to curb the scourge of terrorism are also highlighted.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4300Advanced Criminological Theory3

This course focuses on the study of crimes, criminals, and the causes of criminal behavior. Students explore how classical, biological, psychological, sociological, economic, and political theories of crime explain criminal behavior, as well as the impact of these theories on the criminal justice system.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 1000 and CRJ 1100
CRJ 4310Analysis of Violent Crime3

An-upper-level, interdisciplinary course that examines violent crime in accordance with the specific aspects of behavioral analysis and law, specific aspects of behavioral analysis and law specific course content will examine typologies of crime, organized/disorganized offenders and behaviorally based crime scene characteristics (including crime scene staging). A particular emphasis will be on the psychopathology of crime, pedophilia, serial killers, human sacrifice rituals and victim logy, and how these factors affect or are affected by criminal motivation, modus operandi and signature aspects of violent crime.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4400Research Methods in Criminal Justice and Criminology3

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and research methods used in criminal justice/criminology. Students learn about sampling, reliability and validity, causation, measurement, design, data collection strategies, analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, and ethical considerations.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 1000
CRJ 4850Forensic Law3

An interdisciplinary course covering law, criminal justice, and science and technological issues in the evidentiary arena. Coverage in the course provides a broad assessment of expert witnesses, microanalysis, pathological evidence, admissibility and investigatory practice, ballistics, fingerprints, vascar/radar, and photographic techniques. Contrasted with criminalistics, subject matter of this course is primarily evidentiary. More particularly, the course will delve into the rules of evidence, which guide the admissibility of forensic evidence in a court of law. Examination includes threshold tests for reliability and admissibility, qualification of witnesses competent to testify, scientific rigor required for admission, and case law determinations on the use and abuse of scientific evidence.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 3750 and CRJ 3760
CRJ 4880Cyber Crime Investigations3

As computers become more common in businesses and households, it is inevitable that the information or evidence an investigator seeks will be stored in those computers or will involve use of the Internet. Data networks now in place allow us to transmit information to and from virtually any location on Earth in a timely and efficient manner. But what has this tremendous enhancement in communications technology brought us? Another opportunity for criminal activity to take place. Who are the criminals in cyberspace? Understanding cybercrime requires an understanding of the technology that is being used to commit the criminal acts. The investigation of cybercrimes requires highly specialized skills. This course is designed to expose students to legal and technical aspects of cybercrime investigation. The guidelines of the collection, preservation, analysis and presentation of digital evidence will be presented to properly conduct a cybercrime investigation. The focus of this course will be on how law enforcement investigate a cybercrime and obtain electronic evidence, maintaining the evidentiary chain, as well as the legal aspects of the search and seizures of computers, smart phones and related digital devices.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
CRJ 4900Seminar in Criminal Justice Studies3

This capstone course for criminal justice students focuses on application of information learned from different courses, with an emphasis on criminal law, legal issues, crime theory, juvenile justice, law enforcement, corrections, ethics, forensic science, and research methods.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 1000
CRJ 4950Criminal Justice Internship0

0 TO 12 An on-site, experiential learning experience students work at a variety of justice agencies for academic credit is the central aim of the internship program. Intern locations have included government agencies, police departments, prisons, federal and state law enforcement, private security firms, judicial clerkships, legal offices, and legal research concerns. Interns must complete a self-evaluation, perform a series of exercises and assignments, author a log diary and a paper outlining the internship experience, work 45 hours per internship credit, and present an acceptable recommendation from the internship supervisor upon completion of the experience.

Subject
CRJ
Credits (min)
0
Credits (max)
0
Credit unit
Credit Hours
Type
course
Edition
2026-2027
Catalog
2026-2027 Undergraduate Catalog
Source
catalog.pennwest.edu
Prerequisite
CRJ 1000

Source: Pennsylvania Western University's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 59