Dec 07, 2024  
2022-2023 Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Social Sciences Department


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The Social Science Department provides an introduction to the study of social and political organizations. In lower-division courses, students are exposed to fundamental knowledge concerning the development and operation of societies and cultures, from the broad view of history to the formation of individual values. At the highest level of study, students construct individualized research and applied skills development. The curriculum is integral to the General University Course Requirements (GUCRs). In relation to the degree programs at Heritage, the Social Science curriculum promotes context — a framework for developing the specialized knowledge and skills that lead to criminal justice (law enforcement, corrections, corporate loss prevention), law, public service, nonprofit management, Psychology, and post-baccalaureate degree programs.

Criminal Justice Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  1. Describe the organizations, functions, policies, processes, and the legal environment that make up the criminal justice system in enforcing and adjudicating the law and administering justice
  2. Analyze and explain the social issues and processes that lead to and result from crime, including the behavioral causes and effects of crime
  3. Conduct research and interpret statistical data that may be used for planning, problem solving, decision making, and policy development
  4. Demonstrate an ability to work and communicate effectively with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds
  5. Apply critical thinking skills in evaluating principles, systems, policies, practices and situations involving criminal justice practitioners, including their professional and ethical disposition

What jobs are available for criminal justice graduates?

  • Law enforcement officer
  • Corrections officer
  • Probation officer
  • Federal agent
  • Detective/private investigator
  • Corporate security/loss prevention officer
  • Emergency management/Homeland Security officer

Degrees and Programs Offered

The Social Science Department offers courses to complete the following degrees and programs:

Programs

    Associate of ArtsBachelor of ArtsMinor

    Courses

      Criminal JusticePolitical SciencePsychologySociology

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