Course Requirements

• Basic understanding of social issues, human behaviour, or civic responsibilities is helpful but not mandatory.

• Interest in crime, criminal behaviour, law enforcement, justice systems, and public safety.

• Basic reading, writing, communication, and analytical skills.

• Access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet connectivity.

• Willingness to participate in lessons, discussions, case studies, assignments, and assessments.

• No prior professional experience in criminology or criminal justice is required.

Course Description

Criminology introduces learners to the scientific study of crime, criminal behaviour, its causes, and society's responses to criminal activities. The course examines the social, psychological, economic, and environmental factors that influence crime, as well as the roles of law enforcement agencies, courts, correctional institutions, and other organizations within the criminal justice system.

Learners will explore key areas such as theories of crime, crime prevention, criminal investigation, victimology, juvenile delinquency, criminal justice administration, rehabilitation, and corrections. The course also examines contemporary issues, including cybercrime, organized crime, human trafficking, corruption, and the impact of crime on individuals and communities. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, ethical conduct, human rights, and evidence-based approaches to crime prevention and control.

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course, learners should be able to:

1. Explain the fundamental concepts, principles, and scope of criminology.

2. Identify and analyze major theories that explain criminal behaviour.

3. Examine the social, psychological, economic, and environmental factors associated with crime.

4. Distinguish between different types of crime and criminal activities.

5. Explain the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional institutions.

6. Describe the stages and processes involved in criminal justice administration.

7. Analyze the causes and consequences of juvenile delinquency and propose appropriate preventive measures.

8. Explain the principles of victimology and assess the impact of crime on victims and communities.

9. Identify effective strategies for crime prevention, control, and community safety.

10. Understand the principles of rehabilitation, correctional services, and offender reintegration.

11. Examine contemporary criminal issues, including cybercrime, organized crime, corruption, and human trafficking.

12. Apply ethical principles, critical thinking, and evidence-based approaches to understanding crime and improving criminal justice practices.