Correctional Systems and Practices Syllabus for 2026-2027
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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 .

Statement on State-Authorized Courses at Amarillo College

For-credit academic and workforce education courses offered at Amarillo College are limited to the course options available in the statewide inventory for two-year public institutions. Courses in the state-authorized lower-division Academic Course Guide Manual and Workforce Education Course Manual have specific descriptions that prescribe course content and may include specific student learning outcomes. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) maintains and regularly updates these manuals. Amarillo College faculty and leaders ensure that these courses are aligned with THECB guidelines and evaluated based on student performance outcomes. Students enrolled in these courses are expected to engage with and learn course content. According to the AC Board of Regents Policy Manual, "faculty members are entitled to academic freedom in the conduct of research and teaching and are tasked with the associated responsibilities" (DGC). Students are entitled to academic freedom in the classroom, as well, and faculty "must not attempt to force on students a personal viewpoint and must at all times allow diversity of opinion" (Amarillo College Academic Affairs Manual).

Course

CRIJ-2313-003 Correctional Systems and Practices

Prerequisites

Course Description

This course is a survey of institutional and non-institutional corrections. Emphasis will be placed on the organization and operation of correctional systems; treatment and rehabilitation; populations served; Constitutional issues; and current and future issues.

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

Hours

(3 sem hrs 3 lec )

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Introduction to Corrections, 4th Ed, by Robert D. Hanser

 Loose-leaf ISBN: 9781071902066| Paperback ISBN: 9781071848999

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 organization and operation of correctional systems and alternatives to institutionalization.

2. Describe treatment and rehabilitative programs.

3. Differentiate between the short-term incarceration and long-term institutional environments.

4. Evaluate current and future correctional issues.

5. Identify the constitutional rights applicable to the correctional setting.

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 ready to learn and prepared to take responsibility for your success. This is an accelerated course, and staying organized and keeping up with deadlines is essential.

Students who are successful in this course generally:

1. Log into the course regularly, at least 3–4 times per week, to check announcements, messages, assignments, and other important information.
2. Respond to instructor requests in a timely manner.
3. Maintain a consistent schedule for completing readings, course preparation, and assignments.
4. Complete all assigned readings and course preparation.
5. Take notes or highlight important information while reading to prepare for written assignments, quizzes, and exams.
6. Review assignment instructions and grading rubrics carefully before submitting work.
7. Take advantage of the resources provided within the course.
8. Contact me promptly when questions or problems arise.
9. Complete and correctly submit all coursework by the established deadlines.

You are responsible for understanding the requirements of the course and keeping track of all assignment and exam deadlines.

Discussion Forums/Communication:

Effective learning happens best in an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing and considering different perspectives. Criminal justice topics may involve controversial, sensitive, or uncomfortable subjects, and differences of opinion are expected.

You are entitled to your own opinions and are never required to agree with your classmates or instructor. However, disagreements must always be expressed in a thoughtful, respectful, and professional manner.

All course-related communication—including discussion boards, written coursework, email, Blackboard Messages, and other communication with classmates or the instructor—must remain professional, respectful, and courteous.

Snide remarks, rude or condescending language, demeaning comments, personal attacks, profanity, racial slurs, threats, harassment, or other inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. Disagreement or frustration does not excuse disrespectful or inappropriate communication.

Serious or repeated inappropriate behavior may be documented and referred to the appropriate college administrator in accordance with Amarillo College policy.

Only students officially registered in the course may participate in discussion boards, send messages within the course, or complete assignments and exams. All work submitted and participation in course activities must come solely from the enrolled student.

If you have concerns about course materials or something posted in a discussion, please contact me.

Scholastic Integrity & Artificial Intelligence (AI):

Scholastic honesty is not only assumed but required of all students in all coursework and exams related to this course. I maintain a zero-tolerance policy regarding scholastic dishonesty. Instances of scholastic dishonesty will be addressed on a case-by-case basis and may 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 including, but not limited to, cheating on a test, plagiarism, and collusion.

Scholastic dishonesty may include:

1. Having someone else complete an assignment or exam for you or acting as a substitute for another student.
2. Using unauthorized assistance or improperly collaborating on assignments or exams.
3. Giving or receiving unauthorized assistance or materials.
4. Plagiarizing or submitting another person's work as your own.
5. Using information from the Internet, Artificial Intelligence (AI), or other sources without proper citation.
6. Allowing another person to submit your work for an assignment or exam.
7. Claiming credit for work completed by another student.
8. Using unauthorized resources, including AI, while completing quizzes or exams. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) NEVER replaces YOU.

AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and similar programs may be used as a limited learning resource when permitted. However, coursework in this class is designed to demonstrate your understanding, analysis, critical thinking, and application of criminal justice concepts.

AI should assist your learning—not do your thinking or coursework for you. If AI is doing the thinking, analyzing, or writing for you, then it is no longer being used as a learning resource and defeats the purpose of the course.

Using AI to generate an essay, discussion post, reflection, analysis, or other assignment and submitting that material as your own may constitute academic dishonesty. Simply citing an AI tool does not give you permission to have AI complete an assignment for you.

When AI use is permitted or required to be disclosed, it must be properly acknowledged and cited as directed in the assignment.

You are responsible for the accuracy of everything you submit. AI can generate inaccurate, outdated, biased, or completely fabricated information, including nonexistent sources, statistics, and court cases.

If you are unsure whether AI is permitted for an assignment, ask before using it.

What Can You Expect From Me?

I am here to support your learning throughout the semester. I will answer questions in a timely manner, grade coursework fairly and objectively, provide meaningful feedback when appropriate, maintain regular office hours, and treat students with professionalism and respect.

My goal is to provide a learning environment in which students have the information, resources, and support necessary to succeed

Grading Criteria

All coursework and learning experiences are directly related to course and unit outcomes. Each assignment will identify the specific learning outcomes being assessed.

Your final course grade will be calculated using the following percentages:

 Coursework [15%]: Includes vocabulary assignments, assigned readings, and written assignments. Coursework is designed to assess your understanding of course material and your ability to apply and support ideas using the textbook and other appropriate sources.

Chapter Exams [20%]: There are six (6) chapter exams covering weeks 1–3 and 5–7. These exams assess your understanding of assigned readings and course content.

Discussion Assignments [20%]: Discussion assignments are generally included in weeks 1, 3, and 5. You will respond to an assigned prompt and reply to at least three (3) classmates.  Discussions are designed to help you apply course concepts, think critically about criminal justice issues, and learn from the perspectives of your classmates.

Prison Design Project [15%] All information and instructions necessary to complete this project will be provided early in the semester, allowing students ample time to complete each required component. The purpose of this project is to encourage analytical, logical, and creative thinking while providing students with an opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course to a practical assignment.

Midterm & Final Exam [30%]: The Midterm Exam, included in Week  4, contains 75 multiple-choice and true/false questions and covers material from Units 1–4. The Final Exam, included in Week 8, contains 100 multiple-choice  questions and is comprehensive, covering material from the entire semester. These exams assess your understanding of course learning outcomes and cover a broader range of material than the chapter exams.

Exams: Students will complete chapter exams, one Midterm Exam, and one comprehensive Final Exam during the semester.

Chapter Exams: Chapter exams consist primarily 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 covers material from the first four weeks of the course. Students will have 1.5 hours to complete the exam.

Final Exam: The Final Exam is comprehensive and covers material from throughout the semester. Students will have 2 hours to complete the exam.

Exam Dates & Early Exam Requests:

All exams must be completed during the dates or testing windows listed on the Class Calendar.: Students who anticipate an unavoidable scheduling conflict due to vacation, work obligations, family responsibilities, or similar reasons may request to take an exam early. Requests must be submitted in writing at least five (5) days before the scheduled exam date. This policy applies to all exams, including chapter exams, the Midterm Exam, and the Final Exam. Early access to an exam is not automatic. Students must receive approval before an exam will be made available early.

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

Module Availability & Working Ahead:

This course is divided into eight (8) Modules (Weeks).

To provide additional flexibility, Modules 1–4 will be opened on the first day of class. You may work ahead and are encouraged to do so when your schedule allows. Each week's coursework still has its own deadline as listed on the Class Calendar. Opening modules early does not change or extend established due dates. Modules typically open on Monday at 8:00 AM and close on Sunday at 11:59 PM.

Modules 1–4

Modules 1–4 will be available beginning on the first day of class.

Module 4 contains the Midterm Exam. The Midterm Exam will not automatically open early with the rest of Module 4 and will be available during the testing window listed on the Class Calendar.

Modules 5–8

After the Midterm testing period is complete, Modules 5–8 will be opened, allowing you to work ahead on the remaining coursework. Individual weekly deadlines will continue to apply.

Module 8 contains the Final Exam. The Final Exam will not automatically open early with the rest of Module 8 and will be available during the testing window listed on the Class Calendar.

Late Work & Makeup Policy:

Because students are provided access to multiple modules in advance and have the opportunity to work ahead, late work and makeup work will NOT be accepted. Early access allows you to plan around work schedules, family responsibilities, appointments, travel, and other obligations. If you know that you will have a scheduling conflict, it is your responsibility to complete coursework early or follow the early-exam request policy.

Once an assignment or exam deadline has passed, the work will not be reopened or accepted for credit.

Exceptions will only be considered for a verified emergency, such as a medical emergency, hospitalization, or other serious unforeseen circumstance. Official documentation must be provided within 48 hours of the missed deadline.

Known scheduling conflicts involving work, vacation, family responsibilities, or similar circumstances are not considered reasons for makeup work after a deadline because students have the opportunity to work ahead and may request early access to exams.

Plan ahead. Early access provides flexibility; it does not extend deadlines.

Extra Credit:

Extra credit opportunities are not offered in this course.

Students are expected to demonstrate their learning through required assignments, exams, and course activities.

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.

Withdrawal 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 October 6, 2026, you must have my permission to drop.

Students who wish to withdraw from a class must:

1. Complete the Administrative Withdrawal Request Form and send the completed form to the instructor for the required signature. Do not send a blank or incomplete form for signature.

Administrative Withdrawal Request Form

Important: After the instructor signs and returns the form, you are responsible for submitting the completed withdrawal form. The instructor does not submit the form on your behalf.

1. Consult with the Financial Aid Office if you are receiving financial aid.
2. Consult with the Veterans Benefit Coordinator if you are receiving veteran benefits.
3. Consult with your academic advisor to determine how withdrawing may affect your enrollment in a 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

Course Access & Getting Started:

Additional course information and student resources are available through the Course Resources site within Blackboard.

You should always feel free to contact me with questions.

Accessing Course Information: Log into the course as early as possible on the FIRST DAY of the semester. This is an accelerated eight-week course, and coursework begins immediately.

When you first log in, review the course announcements and instructions for getting started.

Modules 1–4 will already be available on the first day of class. Take advantage of the opportunity to review upcoming coursework and work ahead.

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.