This course provides a basis for understanding of the correctional system for those intending to pursue careers in the field of corrections or law enforcement. The course includes the historical development, philosophy, and variety of correctional methods. Included are institutional and post-institutional techniques, probation, and parole. This course is required in the Probation and Corrections Program.
Course Objectives:
This is to introduce the student to the field of corrections, historically and contemporarily.
Course Outline:
A. Behavior and Punishment
B. Enlightenment and Reform
C. Prison Systems
1. Pennsylvania
2. Auburn
3. Industrial
D. Correctional Ideologies
E. Common Law
1. Felony
2. Misdemeanors
F. Sentence History
G. Due process and Diversion
H. Sanctuary
I. Detention
1. Home
2. Electronic
3. Boot Camps
4. Halfway Houses
J. Parole
K. Rights of Convicted and Confined
L. Executions
M. Jail Admissions
1. Females
2. Juveniles
3. Mentally Disordered
4. Elderly
N. Bureaucratic Control
O. Characteristics
1. Jails
2. Federal Prisons
3. Military Prisons
P. Change and Research
Student Outcome Statements:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Compare the various historical attempts at corrections in the US and the rest of the world.
2. Define probation, parole, institutional and community based corrections.
3. Analyze the value of various punishment philosophies
4. Restate the social arguments for and against the death penalty
5. Describe the various treatment methods used in corrections
6. Identify the impact of prison gangs and the prison subculture on the orderly running of prisons in the U.S.
7. Differentiate between jails and prisons.
8. Suggest changes to the current correctional systems and predict future changes In corrections.