An examination of the traditional definitions of deviance followed by contemporary critiques which emphasize labeling theory and the more sociological approaches to understanding human conduct.

This course will provide a historical overview of punitive justice and the U.S. criminal justice system from a critical criminology perspective. Students will be introduced to perspectives on crime grounded in various theoretical perspectives and using specific case examples.  

In this course students will learn common patterns in organized crime and terrorism (mafia, gangs, etc), their social structure, and their relationship with politics and law enforcement. Special focus will be given to types of crime occurring in the borders including drug dealing, smuggling, human trafficking, among others. 

Grounded in social justice and inclusion, this course will discuss current affairs within the field of criminology. The purpose of special topics is for students to be informed on the latest issues emerging within the field of criminology.

In this course students will gain an understanding of the historical origins and evolution of Immigration Law. Students will read and analyze elements of Immigration Law in a social and multicultural context. Students will also develop linguistic proficiency essential for communication in professional matters in law enforcement.  

This course examines youth in relation to the U.S. juvenile justice system, with attention to policies that push specific youth out of school to be targets for incarceration. The school to prison pipeline, stigmatization and criminalization of youth, and youth justice and empowerment programs and policies will be central themes of this course.

This course examines alternatives to punitive justice from a critical criminology perspective. This course will provide students with practical skills and knowledge about mediation, conflict transformation, transformative justice, restorative justice, peace building/making, community circles, negotiation, and other nonwestern, non-punitive practices to address issues of crime, conflict, and harm. This course will stress the importance of accountability, healing, and transformation.