ADJ 140 - Introduction to Corrections (3 CR.)

Focuses on societal responses to the offender. Traces the evolution of practices based on philosophies of retribution, deterrence, and rehabilitation. Reviews contemporary correctional activities and their relationships to other aspects of the criminal justice system. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an awareness of the occupational opportunities in the field of corrections as well as to understand the broad impact of corrections on the criminal justice system. The student will have a greater understand for the requirements and responsibilities of correctional officers.

Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

Describe the challenges to corrections in a dynamic society.
Explore occupational opportunities in the field of corrections.
Describe the procedures relative to custody, security, and control of inmates.
Understand correctional philosophies, trends, and practices.

Major Topics to be Included

Discuss the history and development of corrections.
Discuss career opportunities in the field of corrections.
Explore theories of punishment.
Explain the goals of punishment.
Describe the goals of community corrections in American society.
Explore different forms of treatment and rehabilitation.
Discuss trends and philosophies in the world of corrections.
Examine race, gender, and age in relation to punishment.
Explore the issue of mental illness in the correctional system.
Describe community prevention strategies.
Discuss recidivism rates of offenders.
Explore the reintegration process into the community.

Extra Topics (optional)

Related subjects at the discretion of the instructor.

Revised 11/2021

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) available for this course. More information at https://www.nvcc.edu/admissions/cpl.html.