Research Methods in Criminal Justice

This course is designed to introduce the student to the scientific method of research. Topics covered include the philosophy/logic of research, hypothesis testing, the construction of concepts, sampling, data gathering, and data analysis. Completion of the course will make students better 'consumers' of behavioral research data, as well as prepare them for more advanced classes in statistics and research. Examples in the class will be drawn from diverse disciplines including criminal justice, sociology, and psychology. This 5000-level course is cross-listed with a 4000-level course and includes specific graduate course requirements which reflect appropriate deeper learning experiences and rigor in the higher-level course.