LAJ 535 - Research Methods

Description:
The emphasis of this course is on developing students’ ability to perform research designs, data collection, data processing and analysis in the field of criminal justice. Various research techniques will be covered, the analysis of both quantitative and qualitative, data, writing research reports and proposals, and the use of computers in research. Course will not have an established scheduling pattern.

Prerequisites:
Prerequisite: admission to the master of science program in law and justice.

Credits:
(5)

Learner Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Identify basic research designs in criminal justice and criminology as well as critique the strengths and weakness with each of the primary research designs.
Identify different types of sampling methods and be able to apply these different sampling methods to conduct data collection.
Apply basic principles of ethics involved in research methodology.
Apply research design to address practical data collection efforts in the area of criminal justice and criminology.
Identify the differences between qualitative, quantitative, and mix method approaches and critique the strengths and weaknesses of each.
Develop, refine, and apply skills to read, explain, and critique modern social science research.

Learner Outcomes Approval Date:
Approved Fall 2017

Anticipated Course Offering Terms and Locations: