Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice Fundamentals is an introductory course designed to provide high school students with an overview of the criminal justice system in the United States. Students will explore the structure, roles, and responsibilities of law enforcement, the courts, and corrections, as well as how these components work together to uphold laws and protect society.

The course examines key topics such as constitutional rights, due process, criminal law, ethics, crime prevention, and the impact of crime on individuals and communities. Students will also explore career pathways within the criminal justice field, including law enforcement, legal professions, corrections, forensics, and public service.

Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, civic responsibility, and real-world applications. This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing further study or careers in criminal justice, law, or public safety.

Criminal Justice II is an advanced course that expands upon the concepts and foundations introduced in Criminal Justice I. Students will take a deeper look at the legal system, criminal procedures, and the real-world application of laws and policies within the criminal justice system.

This course explores advanced topics such as criminal investigation, forensic science, juvenile justice, corrections, victim advocacy, and contemporary issues in criminal justice. Students will analyze case studies, evaluate ethical dilemmas, and examine how laws, policies, and procedures impact individuals and communities.

Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, problem-solving, communication skills, and career readiness. Students will further explore postsecondary pathways and careers in law enforcement, legal studies, corrections, forensic science, and public service. This course prepares students for continued study in criminal justice or related fields.

Criminal Justice I is an introductory course that examines the history, nature, structure, and function of the criminal justice system in the United States. Students will explore how the system operates and how its components work together to administer justice.

The course includes an overview of law enforcement, the court system, and correctional agencies, including probation and parole. Emphasis is placed on understanding roles, processes, and responsibilities within each area of the justice system. This course provides a foundational understanding for students interested in careers or further study in criminal justice, law, or public service.

Criminal Justice: Ethics examines the ethical considerations and moral challenges faced by practitioners within the criminal justice system. Students will explore how ethical decision-making influences professional conduct across all areas of the justice system.

Areas of emphasis include determining moral behavior; developing ethical reasoning; ethics in law enforcement, the courts, and corrections; and the ethics of punishment. Additional topics include policy and management issues, professionalism, accountability, and the role of personal and organizational integrity in criminal justice careers.

Through discussion, case studies, and analysis of real-world scenarios, students will develop a deeper understanding of ethical responsibility, professional standards, and the importance of ethical leadership in the administration of justice.

Criminal Justice: Criminal Investigations examines the concepts and practices of criminal investigative work from its early history to modern investigative methods. Students will explore the evolution of criminal investigation and the role it plays within the criminal justice system.

Areas of emphasis include the history of criminal investigation; identification, documentation, and collection of physical evidence; statutory guidelines; the role of the criminal investigator as a witness; and investigative methods used for different types of felony crimes. Students will analyze case studies and learn how investigative procedures support ethical, legal, and effective law enforcement practices.

This course is designed for students interested in advanced study or careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, forensic science, or related fields.

Criminal Justice: Criminal Procedure examines the U.S. Constitution, court cases, statutes, and other regulatory sources that govern criminal procedure. Students will analyze how these legal frameworks shape criminal law and the administration of justice.

The course focuses on key procedural issues, including search and seizure, interrogations and confessions, grand jury investigations, identification procedures, and the right to counsel. Through case analysis and discussion, students will develop an understanding of constitutional protections, due process, and the balance between individual rights and public safety.

This course is designed for students interested in advanced study or careers in criminal justice, law, or public service.

Criminal Justice: Report Writing focuses on the importance of accurate and professional documentation of police-related activities. Students will examine the role of written reports in the criminal justice system and the impact documentation has on investigations, legal proceedings, and accountability.

The course emphasizes report writing skills, including proper structuring of interviews, chronological documentation of events, and clear communication of facts. Instruction incorporates correct sentence structure, appropriate terminology, and accuracy in written reports. Students will practice drafting and revising reports to meet professional standards used in law enforcement and related criminal justice fields.

This course is designed to build foundational communication skills essential for careers in criminal justice and public safety.

Criminal Law is an introductory course that examines the purposes and functions of criminal law in the United States. Students will explore the rights and responsibilities of officers and citizens within the framework of local, state, and federal laws.

The course highlights the development, application, and enforcement of criminal laws, with attention to how statutes and legal principles operate in Missouri and across the United States. Through case analysis and discussion, students will gain an understanding of how criminal laws are created, interpreted, and enforced, as well as their impact on individuals and communities.

This course provides a foundation for students interested in careers or further study in criminal justice, law, or public service.