Mar 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Saint Joseph’s College Online 
    
2016-2017 Saint Joseph’s College Online [Archived Catalog]

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SO 353 - Critical Issues in Policing


This course will explore critical issues confronting contemporary law enforcement, as well as show these issues have shaped modern policing in America. A central course objective is the examination of these critical issues as they relate to the contexts of law, policy, community, and actual and perceived threats to public safety and crime.  Through course readings, discussion board dialogue, and individual research, students will develop an understanding of the complexities and challenges of modern policing and discuss potential solutions.

Assignment Overview
Assignments: 4 Units

Interactivity: Discussion forum

Final Assessment: Final Project

Course Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to do the following:

  • Examine the concept of traditional policing i.e. the foundation of the role of police in society and how policing has evolved.

  • Identify and describe the complexities of modern policing and the associated challenges to selecting, hiring, and training police officers.

  • Analyze the concept of police discretion and how discretion is used and abused.

  • Analyze how ethics impact an officer’s ability to effectively perform his or her mission, credibility in the courtroom, police/community relations and acceptance by peers.

  • Investigate and discuss the unique challenges women and minorities in law enforcement experience in the hiring and promotion process, establishing and maintaining professional credibility and acceptance by their peers.

  • Recognize and examine the sources and consequences of police related stress.  


Credits: 3



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