Introduction to Criminal Justice Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

CRIJ-1301-001 Introduction to Criminal Justice

Prerequisites

Course Description

This course provides a historical and philosophical overview of the American criminal justice system, including the nature, extent and impact of crime; criminal law; and justice agencies and processes.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Hybrid

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

 Introduction to Criminal Justice Practice and Process, Kenneth J Peaks, Tamara D.Herold 5th  Edition, ISBN# 9781071848982

The required textbook listed above will be used extensively throughout the semester, so it’s essential that you have a copy by the first day of class. Please plan ahead to ensure you receive it on time.

You can purchase your textbook in one of the following ways:

In Person| Visit the Amarillo College Bookstore, located in the College Union Building (CUB) on the Washington Street Campus at 24th and Jackson.

 Phone: (806) 371-5304|Email: bookstore@actx.edu| Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The bookstore also offers extended hours at the beginning and end of each semester.

Important: Keep your receipt for all purchases made at the college bookstore. Exchanges or returns cannot be processed without it.

Online|  You may order your textbook online through the Amarillo College Bookstore or from another reputable online vendor.

The ISBN's for the required textbook are provided to help you order the correct edition. If purchasing online, double-check that you’ve selected the right edition and allow sufficient time for delivery so your book arrives before class begins.

Note: You do not need to purchase any access codes for this course.

Supplies

Upon enrolling in this class you must have access to a working computer, active and functioning internet service, some type of word processing program, Adobe Acrobat Reader and exhibit computer competency.

Adobe Acrobat Reader may be downloaded FREE from https://get.adobe.com/reader/.

OFFICE 360
Microsoft offers Office 360 for free to students. If you do not have Word, Power Point, etc. on your computer please follow the link below to get started. 

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office

GOOGLE Apps
You should utilize your Google Apps for completing course assignments. To access your Google Apps follow the steps listed below:

Step 1| Log onto AC Connect.

Step 2| Scroll down and under the AC apps & email box, click on the Google Apps link and you will see the links for all of the Google apps. 

Step 3| Choose the appropriate app needed. As a helpful hint, you’ll use “Docs” to write your discussion posts and other written assignments and “Slides” for your introduction assignment as well as your class project presentations (if applicable).   

Assistance with Computer Access

If you do not have a computer, you may access the computers at the AC Library on the 4th floor of the WARE Building. Click on the link below to access phone numbers, hours of operation and locations for all Amarillo College libraries and computing centers:

The Amarillo College Bookstore has a laptop rental program as well. You may contact them to find out more information about the requirements and terms of the program.

 
Amarillo College Writer’s Corner

The Writer’s Corner is an excellent resource available to you for assistance in the writing needs of the course. You can access additional information at  

EMAIL ADDRESS:  writerscorner@actx.edu 

Phone: 345 5580   

LOCATION:  Ware Student Commons, 324

Criminal Justice Library Guide

Detailed instruction available in course Blackboard

Student Performance

Student performance addresses the knowledge and skills you should have gained upon completion of this course with an overall final course average of 70% or above. To that end, there are general course learning outcomes (listed below) and more specific unit learning outcomes for this course.  The weekly learning outcomes are listed on the applicable unit action plan.

1. Describe the history and philosophy of the American criminal justice system.
2. Explain the nature and extent of crime in America.
3. Analyze the impact and consequences of crime.
4. Evaluate the development, concepts, and functions of law in the criminal justice system.
5. Describe the structure of contemporary federal, state, and local justice agencies and processes.

This progression of this course will be guided by meeting both the weekly course learning outcomes and the general course learning outcomes. At the conclusion of the semester you’re expected to have a basic understanding of the key issues relevant to the field of corrections and the essential elements therein.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Course Workload and Preparation

You should approach this course with a mindset where you’re ready to learn.

The workload for this course will require due diligence and integrity on your part. You are responsible for ensuring you understand all requirements of the course, have access to necessary supplies and complete assignments accordingly.

I’ve found students who do well in my classes generally ascribe to the following practices:

1. Log into the class on a regular basis (at least 3-4 times per week) to check for class announcements/emails/messages regarding upcoming assignments and other important information.

2. Respond to requests from me in a timely manner. 

3. Have a consistent plan or approach for completing reading/preparation and assignments for the course.

4. Complete all readings and course preparation as assigned. This is imperative for successful completion of the course. 

5. Highlight the textbook or take notes as they complete reading assignments to help prepare for written assignments, quizzes and/or exams.

6. Reach out to me in a timely fashion with regards to questions or problems with the class.

7. Take full advantage of all the resources provided within the course. 

8. Complete and correctly submit all assignments in a timely manner and be cognizant of all relevant due dates.  

Discussion Forums/Communication

Effective learning happens best in a safe, inclusive space where all of us feel comfortable sharing and considering different perspectives. Throughout the semester, I encourage you to honor the uniqueness of your classmates and appreciate the opportunity we have to learn from one another.

Some discussion topics may touch on sensitive or uncomfortable subjects. It’s important that we approach these conversations with respect and courtesy at all times. You are always entitled to your own opinions and are never required to agree with others; however, disagreements must be expressed in a thoughtful, respectful, and considerate manner.

Snide remarks, demeaning comments, personal attacks, inappropriate language, or racial slurs will not be tolerated in any setting, whether in discussions, written coursework, or email communication.

Only students who are officially registered in the course may post on discussion boards, send messages within the course, or complete assignments. Work submitted and participation in course activities must come solely from the enrolled student.

If at any point you feel concerned, uncomfortable, or offended by course materials or by something posted in the discussion board, please contact me immediately. All materials, both required and supplemental, have been carefully selected to support the learning process and help you meet the course objectives.

Please refer to the Office Hours section for details about how to contact me regarding course communication.

Scholastic Integrity

Scholastic honesty is not only assumed, but required of all students in all coursework and exams as they relate to this course. I maintain a zero-tolerance policy with regards to scholastic dishonesty. Instances of scholastic dishonesty will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and will result in a grade of zero for the applicable assignment(s) and/or removal from the course. 

Scholastic dishonesty is defined in the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct as “…shall include, but not be limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion.” Determinations of scholastic dishonesty may be substantiated if a student engages in any of the following behaviors:

1. Have someone else complete assignments or exams for you, or act as a substitute for another student in any assignment or exam.

2. Use unauthorized help or collaborate improperly on assignments or exams in a way that does not reflect your own work. This includes “collusion,” which is defined by the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct as “…the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Students should not work together on assignments unless specifically instructed.

3. Give excessive help to other students on assignments or exams. This includes using or sharing camera phones, text messages, photocopies, notes, or other materials without permission.

4. Plagiarize, which is defined in the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct as “…the appropriating, buying, receiving as a gift, or obtaining by any means another’s work and the unacknowledged submission or incorporation of it in one’s own written work.”

5. Use information from the Internet or other sources without proper citation. Full and accurate credit must be given for any ideas or materials taken from others.

6. Allow someone else to submit your work for an assignment or exam.

7. Claim credit for work done by another student.

What Can You Expect from ME?

I am here to support your learning every step of the way. I will answer questions promptly, grade fairly and objectively, and provide helpful feedback on assignments when appropriate (see the Grading Criteria section for details). I will also maintain regular office hours and treat each student with the respect and consideration I would hope to receive myself. My goal is to create a positive learning environment where everyone feels valued and supported

Grading Criteria

All coursework, assignments and learning experiences in this course are directly related to both the general course and unit outcomes and meant to assist you in mastering course content while assessing the level of your learning.  Each assignment will have the specific learning outcomes to be met listed within the instructions. Your grade for this course will be comprised of the following percentages and types of assignments:

Exams

Students will complete five chapter exams, one midterm exam, and one comprehensive final exam during the semester.

Chapter Exams

Five chapter exams will be given throughout the course.

Each exam will consist of multiple-choice and true/false questions.

Students will have 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete each chapter exam.

Midterm Exam

The midterm exam will cover all material from the first four weeks of the course.

Students will have 2 hours to complete the midterm exam.

Final Exam

The final exam is comprehensive and will consist of multiple-choice questions.

Students will have 2 hours to complete the final exam.

All exam dates are listed in the course calendar.

All chapter exams, the midterm exam, and the final exam must be taken on the dates listed in the course calendar.

Exam, Assignment, and Make-Up Work Policies

Students who anticipate an unavoidable scheduling conflict due to vacation, work obligations, family responsibilities, travel, medical procedures, athletic events, or similar circumstances are expected to plan ahead and may need to work ahead on assignments and exams. Requests to take an exam early or gain early access to assignments must be submitted in writing at least five (5) days before the scheduled due date or exam date. Failure to plan ahead for known scheduling conflicts will not excuse missed assignments or exams.

Exceptions for missed exams will only be considered in the event of a verified emergency such as hospitalization, emergency surgery, a serious medical emergency, military deployment, a death in the immediate family, or another significant unforeseen circumstance beyond the student’s control. Official documentation must be provided within 48 hours of the missed exam.

Examples of acceptable documentation may include hospital discharge paperwork, physician documentation, military orders, obituary/funeral documentation, police reports, or other official records verifying the emergency.

Examples of situations that would generally NOT be considered emergencies include vacations, travel delays, work schedule conflicts, family gatherings, internet issues, oversleeping, forgetting deadlines, childcare arrangements, technical problems without documentation, athletic events, or waiting until the last day to complete coursework.

Assignments other than exams—including discussions, writing assignments, projects, quizzes, reflections, and other coursework—cannot be made up, reopened, or submitted late under any circumstance. Students are expected to plan ahead and manage their schedules accordingly.

Grading Scale

A = 100% – 89.5%
B = 89.4% – 79.5%
C = 79.4% – 69.5%
D = 69.4% – 59.5%
F = 59.4% and below

Students earn the grades they receive. Final grades are determined strictly according to the grading scale listed above. For example, a final grade of 89.5% earns an A, while a final grade of 89.4% earns a B. Students are responsible for their academic performance and are expected to complete all required coursework and prepare adequately for exams.

Extra Credit

Extra credit opportunities are not offered in this course.

Students are expected to demonstrate their learning through the required assignments, exams, and course activities. The purpose of this course is to help students develop the study habits and academic skills necessary to succeed in college-level coursework.

Please do not request extra credit opportunities.

Attendance

REGULAR ATTENDANCE IS NECESSARY FOR SATISFACTORY ACHIEVEMENT. THEREFORE, IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT TO ATTEND CLASS, EVEN IN AN ONLINE SETTING.

Consistent and adequate involvement in an online class is necessary for satisfactory completion. Therefore, it is your responsibility to check course postings and emails on a daily basis, follow the prescribed timeline for assignments and exams, etc. If you’re having difficulty with any portion of this course, you should contact me via email, phone, or in person, immediately.

Withdraw procedures

It is the student’s responsibility to drop a course or withdraw from the college. Failure to drop the course within a timely manner will result in the student receiving a performance grade, usually an “F”. The last day to drop is July 21, 2026, you must have my permission to drop

Students who wish to withdraw from a class must:

1. print out the Administrative Withdrawal Request form and complete it. The form requires the instructor’s signature file:  https://acconnect.actx.edu/forms/pdf-forms/Academic-Withdrawal-Form.pdf
2. consult with their instructor to obtain instructors signature on the withdrawal request form
3. consult with the financial aid office if receiving financial aid
4. consult with the Veterans Benefit Coordinator if receiving veteran benefits
5. consult with their academic advisor to determine how withdrawing may affect their enrollent in future semester

NOTE:  The Texas Education Code stipulates that students attending Texas institutions of higher education for the first time fall 2007 and later may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career, including courses from which transfer students have withdrawn at other Texas institutions of higher education. (Senate Bill 1231) Rule 4.

Calendar

Additional Information

This section contains important and helpful information on a variety of topics related to the class. If you need additional information on any aspect of the class, please refer to the Course Resources site within the class in Blackboard.  Moreover, you should always feel free to contact me with any questions.

Accessing Course Information
        You should log onto the course as early as possible on the FIRST DAY of the semester.This course will progress quickly and the first assignment is due within days of the course beginning. When you log onto the course for the first time you will see an announcement with specific instructions on how to get started. 

Criminal Justice Departmental Policies
Tutoring/Assistance with Course                                                                                                                                                                                                   The Criminal Justice Department at Amarillo College endeavors to support each student’s goals for success by providing additional academic support services to those in need. If your cumulative grade average for this course falls below a 70, you will be strongly encouraged to access tutoring and other academic resources the instructor feels is appropriate.  Any student needing assistance with any aspect of the course content should contact me to schedule a tutoring session. Tutoring sessions are offered at no charge and can be conducted on campus or via telephone/email. Arrangements can be made to schedule a time that is convenient for the student.

Student Academic Help/ Student Resources                                                                                                                                                                              There are a variety of resources available to help students with issues they may be experiencing throughout the semester. You are encouraged to contact your instructor with any questions or problems you might have while taking the course. In addition, you may access many of the various student resources at: https://www.actx.edu/student-resources.

Reproduction of Course Materials                                                                                                                                                                                                   Students are prohibited from reproducing any portion of this class without written permission from the instructor of record or authorization through Disability Services. This includes, but is not limited to, lecture notes, class discussion boards or any other class materials. For purposes of the policy herein, “reproducing” applies to photographic reproduction, audio, video, or any other type of reproduction of course materials. Students who create and/or share an unauthorized reproduction of course materials via any means, including social media, are violating an instructor's intellectual property rights and could potentially be subjected to disciplinary actions under the Amarillo College Student Code of Conduct. Additionally, should any reproduction be shown of proprietary materials, the student who created or shared the unauthorized reproduction may also be subject to copyright laws. This policy has been adopted by all instructors in the Criminal Justice Department. Questions or concerns should be directed to Sarah E. Uselding, Program Coordinator and/or Eric Wallace, Director.

Extra-Credit Opportunities                                                                                                                                                                                                          Determinations regarding whether or not extra-credit opportunities will be afforded to students is at the discretion of the instructor. In the event an option for extra-credit is offered by the instructor, comprehensive guidelines and information will be provided to the student. Students are not required to participate in extra-credit opportunities. This policy has been adopted by all instructors in the Criminal Justice Department. Questions or concerns should be directed to Sarah E. Uselding, Program Coordinator and/or Eric Wallace, Dean.

Student Complaints or Issues                                                                                                                                                                                                    A  complaint is an allegation of improper, unfair, arbitrary or discriminatory treatment by college personnel. Students should attempt to resolve concerns informally with the instructor before filing a formal complaint. Any student or group of students may file a complaint concerning any campus issue. The Amarillo College Student Complaint Policy is described in detail in the Student Rights and Responsibilities document. If you have a complaint regarding myself, or some aspect of the course, you should first contact me immediately in person or via email and attempt to resolve the situation. If the situation can’t be resolved to your satisfaction, you should then contact Sarah E. Uselding, Assistant Professor/Program Coordinator at seuselding@actx.edu or Eric Wallace, Dean of Criminal Justice Programs at ecwallace@actx.edu

 Questions, advice, etc…                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Please note; I am more than happy to talk to you about whatever may be on your mind. If you need someone to talk to, need resources for food/gas, rent etc.., or if you just have questions about criminal justice, I will be more than happy to sit down and visit with you.