American Justice System Overview
American Justice System Overview
The American Justice System Certificate program from Portland State University provides a comprehensive study of the complex relationship between criminal justice and the American Justice System. The online certificate program is offered by the College of Urban and Public Affairs and represents an advanced examination of criminology and law, delivered by knowledgeable and experienced criminal justice faculty.
During the online American Justice System Certificate program you’ll begin by developing an in-depth understanding of the basic concepts of crime, criminal law, criminology, and the measurement of crime. These topics are discussed as part of an effort to determine the major theories and causes of criminal behavior. Students will gain a broader understanding of the police, the courts, and corrections, and thoroughly discuss the overarching impact of criminal justice system in the United States, including the prospects for system and individual change.
Students will progress into and examine the functions, responsibilities, and interactions of law enforcement. The concept of Problem-Oriented Policing (POP), its positive aspects, implementation and results, as well as negative elements will be discussed. Students will reflect on the issues that impact organizational change in American policing and other criminal justice agencies.
The certificate program next examines the punishment, corrections, and rehabilitation policies and practices that affect offenders including, mandatory sentencing laws, offender education, treatment programs, boot camps, house arrest, probation, and more.
With a background in criminology and criminal justice established, the program narrows it’s focus onto the world of criminal law and justice. Students will examine the constitutional issues related to criminal procedure and are introduced to legal research sources such as databases and journal articles. Emphasis is given to individual rights, due process, judicial philosophy, selective incorporation, structure of the judiciary, decision-making, race and ethnicity, and more. The different levels and operations of the American court system are examined, including the Supreme Court, state courts, appellate courts, and juvenile courts.
Students also receive an overview of how they can collect and use data to address the planning process, analyze crime, and create a better system. Criminal justice management issues and policy will be discussed.
