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Summer and Fall 2025 Registration window opens March 17.

CJS 356 Violence in America

Students will explore the nature and extent of the violence problem in the United States using a tripartite approach, which incorporates patterns, explanations, and interventions. The course will cover the history and epidemiology of violence; roots of violence, including biological, psychological, and sociological causes; specific types of violence; media portrayals of violence; the physical, emotional, social, economic, and political consequences of violence; and ways to control and prevent violence in our communities, including criminal justice and public health approaches.

Prerequisites

4 Undergraduate credits

Effective August 18, 2017 to present

Learning outcomes

General

  • Analyze the different effects violence has on law enforcement, criminal justice, and the community.
  • Construct a community-oriented approach to violent crime reduction.
  • Explain, evaluate, and differentiate between the different theories and causes of violence.
  • Examine violence in the media (newspapers, television, film, the internet) and its relationship to real violence.
  • Develop and improve critical thinking and communication skills.