Law Enforcement Certificate

An introductory course designed to provide students with a general foundation of knowledge in the criminal justice field. Course participants will explore the different parts of the criminal justice system, their interrelationships, and the role of each in the criminal justice process. Students will examine the historical basis for the contemporary American legal system, policing styles and the evolution of crime prevention, the structure of the judicial system and its professional participants from pre-sentencing through post-conviction, corrections strategies for criminal offenders, and special considerations for juveniles in the criminal justice system.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: J100
Credits: 4

Students will examine the theoretical underpinnings of police work in the United States, including its historical roots, its current status, and the trends that will shape its future. They will explore the problems and solutions facing citizens, patrol officers, administrators, and agencies. They will also cover contemporary practices such as Community Oriented Policing, Problem Oriented Policing, and Directed Patrol. In investigating these topics, student will develop skills in critical thinking and problem solving. For residential only, this course includes a fieldwork assignment.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Criminal Justice

Course ID: J120
Credits: 4

Students will master the skills of both oral and written communication. They will examine grammar and the mechanics of writing. They will also explore special communication issues, such as communicating with crime victims. They will develop skills for proper report writing, including such documents as search warrants, police reports, and case documents. Students will evaluate the impact of proper report writing, communication, and documentation on the outcome of legal proceedings, and review the importance of effectively translating written work into courtroom testimony.

Prerequisite: Policing in America

Course ID: J122
Credits: 4

This course provides an examination of substantive and procedural criminal law. Students are introduced to the Federal and State courts systems. The concepts of evidence sufficiency, standards of proof, and due process are explored. Statutory defenses, mitigating factors and circumstances which may excuse criminal responsibility, and common law principles are examined. For residential only, this course includes a fieldwork assignment.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Criminal Justice or Introduction to Law and the Legal System.

Course ID: J131
Credits: 4

This course examines violence in the family; social and legal relations within families; theories and solutions on family violence; survivors and the consequences of victimization; legal responses; the role of the police; when law enforcement responds; recognizing child abuse; recognizing elder abuse; associated crimes and stalking and domestic homicide.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Criminal Justice

Course ID: J200
Credits: 4

An overview of the juvenile justice system including the nature and extent of delinquency, explanatory models and theories, the juvenile justice system, juvenile court practices and procedures. The role of law enforcement and juvenile correctional officer will be explored as well as juvenile training schools, probation and aftercare treatment.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Criminal Justice or Introduction to Human Services

Course ID: J213
Credits: 4

Students will examine how principles of psychology relate to law-enforcement work. They will explore fundamental concepts from a policing perspective, focusing on the real-world effects these principles produce on peace officers, their families, and the citizens they serve. Students will apply ideas from psychology to create effective victim- and witness-interviewing strategies, offender behavior-modification approaches, and officer coping methods. They will review the short- and long-term physiological and psychological effects of stress, trauma, and occupational experiences unique to the profession.

Prerequisite: Policing in America

Course ID: J222
Credits: 4

This course provides a strong theoretical foundation for solving ethical dilemmas. Students will gain a realistic picture not only of what ethical questions arise in criminal justice, but also of how sound moral decisions are made in response to them.

Prerequisites: Policing in America; Criminal Law and Procedures: Crime in the Courtroom

Course ID: J255
Credits: 4

Students will examine Minnesota criminal code and related statutes to gain a thorough understanding of peace officer responsibilities under Minnesota law. They will review specific Minnesota crimes and their elements, levels of offense, and the proper handling of suspects involved in various crimes. Charging, defenses, and sentencing will also be explored.

Prerequisite: none

Course ID: LE240
Credits: 2

Students will explore motor vehicle laws and statutes related to traffic enforcement in Minnesota. They will examine rules pertaining to driving, equipment, motor vehicle insurance, and driver licensing. They will identify unique circumstances and vehicles in traffic law, including commercial motor vehicles, implements of husbandry, boats, and all-terrain vehicles. Students will also review alcohol and drugs impairments to driving, and enforcement of related laws.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Criminal Justice or enrolled in certificate

Course ID: LE245
Credits: 2