University General Course Catalog 2021-2022 
    
    May 09, 2024  
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University General Course Catalog 2021-2022 ARCHIVED CATALOG: LINKS AND CONTENT ARE OUT OF DATE. CHECK WITH YOUR ADVISOR.

8. Course Descriptions

Note: Sequencing rules in effect for many Math courses prohibit students from earning credit for a lower numbered Math course after receiving credit for a higher numbered Math course. Sequencing rules are included in the course descriptions of applicable courses.
 

Journalism
  

  • JOUR 618 - Magazine Writing

    (3 units)
    Writing and marketing of articles for magazines. Analysis of general interest and specialized magazines.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate the advanced knowledge and key skills expected of writers by the leading publishers of national magazines or reportorial nonfiction books.
    2. create (through reporting, writing, rewriting, and editing) a portfolio of 6,000 to 10,000 words of journalistic writing that aspires to those professional standards.
    3. analyze and evaluate the writing of their classmates as well as recent pieces of professional work from major magazines.


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  • JOUR 625 - Audio: Radio, Podcasting, and Beyond

    (3 units)
    Practice in reporting, writing, and producing audio stories, podcasts, and newscasts. Focus on audio production techniques.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Units of Laboratory/Studio: 1
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. discuss the history of radio and how it relates to the current role of audio journalism in democracy.
    2. demonstrate advanced skills in audio field recording and sound production.
    3. construct professional-level audio scripts, stories, newscasts, and podcasts that inform, persuade, and/or entertain.
    4. analyze audio stories and shows for intended audience.
    5. create a new audio show for a niche audience.
    6. organize, plan, and manage an audio newscast.
    7. revise audio stories incorporating professional feedback.


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  • JOUR 628 - Investigative Reporting

    (3 units)
    Produce original journalism of significant community interest and impact that holds authorities accountable. Develop in-depth reporting skills using a range of tools and tactics, including diverse sources, public records, databases and other documents. Improve storytelling skills, using a variety of narrative styles across social media and other platforms.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate ability to conceptualize investigative news projects.
    2. exhibit advanced reporting and storytelling skills.
    3. produce impactful news content that is credible, publishable, relevant and appealing to a Northern Nevada audience.
    4. set and achieve customized individual objectives for advanced reporting, writing, editing and publishing.
    5. demonstrate heightened capacity to critically analyze course projects, as well as the published work of others.


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  • JOUR 632 - Creative Solutions for Strategic Communications

    (3 units)
    Application of strategic communications concepts to create media messages. Development of personal creative portfolio. Writing for integrated marketing communications. Use of marketing research data.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. develop and demonstrate techniques to evaluate, monitor and buy advertising for print, broadcast, direct, online and social media channels.
    2. recognize issues and develop strategies to building contact lists for earned publicity in print, broadcast, direct, online and social media channels.
    3. relate ethical standards to the practice of strategic communications.
    4. develop and demonstrate verbal, written and visual communication skills.
    5. enhance project management and teamwork skills.
    6. describe and document the creative process through systematic observation and classification.


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  • JOUR 640 - Advanced Media Production Studio

    (3 units)
    Conceptualize, pre-produce, produce, and post-produce a body of professional-quality, multi-platform audiovisual pieces for the promotion of determined goods, services or causes. Work in a crew setting, collaborating in micro-groups while forming part of a larger hierarchy of production.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. design, plan, and produce professional-grade scripted media, from conception through delivery, using industry-standard best practices.
    2. demonstrate the proper use of professional media production equipment throughout the three phases of production.
    3. organize the required resources, steps, processes, and stakeholders to successfully carry out the production of professional-grade scripted media.
    4. critically examine the relation between the praxis of scripted media production and strategic communication goal.
    5. demonstrate fluency in the overall design, coordination, and execution of a complex media production, effectively acting as its executive producers.


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  • JOUR 642 - Advanced Strategic Communications

    (3 units)
    Strategic communications principles and techniques applied to advertising and public relations. Solving an actual client’s problems, using strategic thinking, qualitative research, and marketing data.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. build skills at developing a strategic communications campaign for a business or other organization.
    2. use project management and teamwork skills by creating a communications campaign.
    3. develop verbal and written communication skills for advertising, public relations and social media channels.
    4. relate ethical standards to the practice of strategic communications.
    5. explain and apply multiple market research techniques to address problems faced by businesses or other organizations.
    6. evaluate the tactics in developing a comprehensive local strategic communication campaign.
    7. document group processes and make recommendations for modifications.


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  • JOUR 643 - Strategic Communications Campaigns Studio

    (3 units)
    Practical experience in solving strategic communications problems and building a campaign for national or global organizations. (By recommendation).

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. build skills at developing a strategic communications campaign for a business or other organization.
    2. use project management and teamwork skills by creating a communications campaign.
    3. develop verbal and written communication skills for advertising, public relations and social media channels.
    4. relate ethical standards to the practice of strategic communications.
    5. explain and apply multiple market research techniques to address problems faced by businesses or other organizations.
    6. evaluate the tactics used in developing the comprehensive strategic communication national campaign.
    7. document group processes and make recommendations for their improvement.


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  • JOUR 646 - Crisis Communication

    (3 units)
    Advanced study of the theory, nature, and forms of effective communication to different target audiences before, during, and after crises.

    Prerequisite(s): Journalism major.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify the concept of crisis management in terms of distinct phases of progress (pre-crisis, crisis event, and post-crisis).
    2. select a crisis-sensing effort through differentiating crisis types based on issues management, risk management, and relationship management.
    3. recognize effective communications tactics by exploring key crisis case studies.
    4. outline and write an effective crisis plan memorandum with key components based on assessment, evaluation of resources and team responsibilities.
    5. demonstrate effective spokesperson skills and an ability to deliver clear messages to the traditional media and on social media sites.


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  • JOUR 648 - Data Visualization for Social Engagement

    (3 units)
    Learn the foundational principles of ethical data visualization to develop persuasive, data-driven design products.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. create data visualizations that represent data legibly and ethically
    2. explain the difference between data visualization for analysis and data visualization for sharing knowledge.
    3. create collaboratively a data visualization based promotional item to persuasively share knowledge.
    4. prepare a plan that describes how the data visualization based promotional item can reach targeted audiences through strategically selected communication channels.


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  • JOUR 652 - Web Design for Media Professionals

    (3 units)
    Explore the theory and techniques of basic to intermediate level web design. The history; the aesthetics; basic HTML and CSS; content management systems (WordPress); domains/hosting; FTP/file management; SEO and analytics.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. develop and manage two of their own domains and their own hosting server.
    2. create a simple HTML web page and explore how CSS modifies the display of its content.
    3. create and maintain a standalone WordPress site with customized coding elements.
    4. analyze and discuss the design decisions made in their work.
    5. use appropriate tools to analyze and optimize the web experience for their users.


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  • JOUR 655 - Human Centered Design and Innovation

    (3 units)
    Model a process for innovation in creating communications products that help people understand the democratic process. Explore user-centered processes, iterative design, brainstorming, and prototyping.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. present a design-centered point of view verbally and visually.
    2. apply the fundamental elements of Human Centered Design.
    3. assess and explain their own and others’ work in Human Centered Design.


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  • JOUR 660 - News Studio

    (3 units)
    Design and produce a multi-platform journalism product.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate competency in a specific area of journalism by producing a body of work (text, audio or broadcast stories, posts, social media, visual media and/or databases) suitable for publication on the course project.
    2. demonstrate competency in a specific area of journalism by producing a body of work (text, audio or broadcast stories, posts, social media, visual media and/or databases) suitable for publication on the course project.
    3. demonstrate competency in critical thinking by designing, planning, producing and distributing their journalistic work products.
    4. demonstrate competency in team work by collaborating with students in the class, faculty and community.


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  • JOUR 662 - Documentary Filmmaking

    (3 units)
    Work in teams to research, shoot, produce and distribute a short documentary film.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify documentary styles, evaluate which style best suits a given story and apply it to create and produce a documentary film.
    2. construct a compelling narrative video story using appropriate visual and audio elements.
    3. plan and schedule the production of a documentary film.
    4. identify films of similar theme to the student’s project and be able to explain how his/her project fits into and adds to the current body of work in the field.
    5. manage a production team and their schedule.
    6. set up interviews and story shoots.
    7. collect video materials and choose what to include in the final documentary.
    8. screen their work for test audiences and interpret audience written feedback.
    9. revise scripts and video work with peer, audience and professor input.
    10. select a key target audience and assess how best to reach them.
    11. score teammates based on negotiated roles and how their work did or did not meet those expectations.
    12. edit the story of another team to offer nuanced feedback and suggestions on story construction.
    13. work on a team to organize and execute a film festival of student film work.


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  • JOUR 665 - Noticiero Movil

    (3 units)
    Learn to produce creative and professional multimedia journalism in English and Spanish for an online bilingual news outlet, Noticiero Móvil.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Units of Laboratory/Studio: 1
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate improving skills in reporting for diverse audiences, including the ability to conduct interviews and produce narratives in more than one language.
    2. experiment with new reporting and production practices by producing multiple stories with the Latinx community.
    3. produce multimedia work suitable for a professional portfolio and resume.
    4. collaborate by being part of a team and taking on specific newsroom responsibilities.
    5. practice professionalism, including meeting strict deadlines and promoting journalism via social media platforms.
    6. demonstrate an increased knowledge of the local Latinx community.
    7. practice leadership roles in the newsroom, coordinate live events and produce news driven by civic purposes.


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  • JOUR 680 - Communicating Innovation

    (3 units)
    This course provides students with practical application of strategically communicating about new innovations with a focus on the area of renewable energy. (ENGR 680 and JOUR 680 are cross-listed; credit may be earned in one of the two.)

    Recommended Preparation: ENGR 600 .

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. make use of basic consumer research techniques as applied to strategic communications.
    2. incorporate verbal, written and visual communication skills in building a communications campaign.
    3. employ project management and teamwork skills in communicating new innovations to the public.
    4. analyze, discuss and apply current practices in advertising, public relations, social media and emerging technology marketing.
    5. integrate various strategic communications tactics for effective campaigns and recognize the importance of this integration.


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  • JOUR 681 - Race, Gender and Media

    (3 units)
    How the media creates and challenges social constructions of gender and race, with a focus on women and minorities as media professionals and audiences.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. explore the relationship between media and a diversity of groups in global society.
    2. reflect on and demonstrate an increased awareness of how society and the media present images of gender and race.
    3. recognize patterns in media coverage of men, women, and minority groups.
    4. discuss how stereotyping evolves and is supported and challenged by the media.
    5. identify diverse media audiences and explain how content affects them.
    6. use advanced analytical thinking to become more critical consumers of media content.
    7. demonstrate a familiarity with social scientific approaches used to study media, gender and race.
    8. demonstrate enhanced media literacy by developing a greater appreciation of the media’s cultural influences.


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  • JOUR 682 - International and Cross-Cultural Reporting

    (3 units)
    Prerequisite(s): Journalism major or minor.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. analyze their own cultural biases and that of international journalists within a geographical and historical framework.
    2. use media to contextualize current events and experiences in relation to historical events and global contexts.
    3. critically examine and assess complex issues and problems of a global nature in international journalism and foreign reporting.
    4. identify and apply multiple perspectives pertaining to global issues through a comparative study of media coverage.
    5. identify, analyze, and interpret connections between localized events and members of a diaspora and their global contexts.
    6. evaluate and articulate connections among local, national, and international contexts for the purposes of journalistic reporting.
    7. demonstrate how local and global contexts of ideas or events affect understandings of contemporary and important historical ideas, events, or issues in regards to media.
    8. GRAD: *Graduate Students will also demonstrate leadership and editing skills in shaping cross-cultural reporting team projects.


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  • JOUR 691A - Special Topics in Professional Practice

    (1 to 3 units)
    Pursuit of a special interest in journalism. Maximum of 6 credits in special topics courses (A & JOUR 691B  and JOUR 791 ).

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. define and describe a significant issue in journalism and mass communication.
    2. identify major media scholars and practitioners of importance to a particular media issue and assess their influence.
    3. demonstrate in-depth knowledge of a particular media issue.


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  • JOUR 691B - Special Topics in Professional Practice: Journalism Lab

    (1 to 3 units)
    Pursuit of special topics with an emphasis on, or significant use of, media technology. Maximum of 6 credits in special topics courses (JOUR 691A  and B, JOUR 791 ).

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. define and describe a significant issue in journalism and mass communication.
    2. demonstrate professional competence in a particular media practice.
    3. reflect on their own media practice and develop strategies for improvement.


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  • JOUR 695 - Practicum

    (3 units)
    Working for an approved professional media organization under the guidance of a mentor.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate an ability to execute quality journalism projects in a professional setting, as judged by a professional mentor.
    2. develop and demonstrate critical decision making skills in the process of searching for, cultivating and executing a professional internship.
    3. demonstrate an ability to reflect thoughtfully on a professional experience and draw parallels between the workplace and concepts discussed in the academy.


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  • JOUR 703 - Innovation

    (3 units)
    Overview of media communications, media literacy, and our understanding of current practices; model a process for innovation, and explore processes of user-centered brainstorming and prototyping.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify problems with current communication organizations’ designs and practices.
    2. model brainstorming as it is practiced at some of the nation’s most respected design firms.
    3. produce and refine audience-centered prototypes of new communication products.
    4. articulate key concepts about the innovation process, how innovations diffuse, how the brain works, how people learn and why some traditional journalism and strategic communications are counterproductive.


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  • JOUR 707 - Storytelling I: Writing

    (3 units)
    Systematic information-gathering strategies, reporting, writing and editing techniques used in journalism. Critical analysis of media writing. Required at the start of the student’s program.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. write with clarity for print, broadcast, social media and other emerging forums.
    2. exercise sound judgment in determining topics, angles, and content for storytelling.
    3. demonstrate reporting skills by developing relevant sources, conducting effective interviews and sifting a range of database and archival resources for pertinent details.
    4. evaluate quality characteristics of their own coursework, with attention to industry innovations, professional standards of credibility, and diverse audiences.


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  • JOUR 720 - The Future of Media

    (3 units)
    Analysis of the implications of the transition from a mass mediated industrial news system to an online networked system of news and journalism.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. recognize and summarize the major strands of thinking on social networks and networked journalism.
    2. contextualize this conversation within the broader history of journalism.
    3. apply new-found knowledge to a critical assessment of recent innovations in journalism.
    4. make an informal judgment of their own about the kind of media communicator they wish to be and how they might create opportunities to achieve this role.


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  • JOUR 723 - Media Entrepreneurship

    (3 units)
    Starting and running new media companies, including identifying and evaluating business opportunities, choosing a revenue model, forming a team, creating a prototype, and seeking capital.

    Recommended Preparation: Enroll during the final semester of graduate study.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify media business opportunities.
    2. evaluate a media business opportunity’s chance of success.
    3. explain the value of a media business opportunity to potential customers and investors.
    4. enumerate the pros and cons of the entrepreneurial life.


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  • JOUR 755 - Media Engagement and Innovation

    (3 units)
    The role of engagement and innovation in journalism, public relations, and advertising. Overview of media communications, media literacy, and our understanding of current practices. Study examples of community engagement and innovation.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. explain key concepts of the innovation and engagement process.
    2. critically evaluate competing theories and practices and assess the value of innovation and engagement in journalism, public relations, and advertising.
    3. brainstorm, prototype, strategize, and execute engagement/innovation projects relevant to journalism, public relations, and advertising.
    4. identify challenges faced by media organizations and apply engagement/innovation practices to address those challenges.
    5. collaborate effectively as part of a team.


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  • JOUR 756 - Storytelling II: Multimedia

    (3 units)
    Study and production of convergent media to create documentary forms of journalism incorporating a variety of multimedia tools.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. create a selection of photographs to document a chosen subject with variety and technical proficiency.
    2. create an edited audio interview that combines the subject’s answers within a narrative structure containing natural sound and scripted narration.
    3. create an edited video project combining an interview with illustrative B-roll footage.
    4. setup and administer a hosted domain, and produce a WordPress website for the media created in class.


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  • JOUR 791 - Special Seminar Topics

    (1 to 3 units)
    Maximum of 6 credits in journalism special topics courses (JOUR 691 and JOUR 791).

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. define and describe a significant issue in journalism and mass communication.
    2. identify major media scholars and practitioners of importance to a particular media issue and assess their influence.
    3. demonstrate in-depth knowledge of a particular media issue.


    Click here for course scheduling information. | Check course textbook information
  

  • JOUR 793 - Independent Study

    (1 to 3 units)
    Investigation into problems in journalism.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate independence in choosing an intellectual or professional topic worthy of study.
    2. demonstrate ability to document intellectual growth in a particular topic.
    3. produce a media product or scholarly paper that reflects indepth knowledge of a particular practice or topic.
    4. apply critical thinking, writing, and creative skills to analyze the specific area of the independent study taken.


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  • JOUR 796 - Professional Paper

    (3 units)
    Report of professional quality, based on a professional journalistic project. Required of all M.A. students.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Independent Study: 3
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate independence in choosing an intellectual or professional topic worthy of study.
    2. demonstrate ability to research relevant literature and examples and summarize key points of the research.
    3. produce a media product or scholarly paper that reflects indepth knowledge of a particular practice or topic.
    4. demonstrate ability to execute a significant project of professional quality.


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  • JOUR 899 - Graduate Advisement

    (1 to 4 units)
    Provides access to faculty for continued consultation and advisement. No grade is filed and credits may not be applied to any degree requirements. Limited to 8 credits (2 semester) enrollment. For non-thesis master’s degree students only.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 8

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Independent Study: X
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:


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Justice Management
  

  • JM 600 - Foundation of Research Methods

    (3 units)
    Systematic approach to analyzing published research, theory, sampling, measurement, quantitative and qualitative approaches, applied research, literature review, research design, and interpretation of basic statistics.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. critically read and evaluate research articles.
    2. demonstrate understanding of ethical issues in research.
    3. describe the purpose and application of theory in the research process.
    4. demonstrate understanding of the difference between qualitative and quantitative research methods and the strengths and limitations of each approach.
    5. identify sources of bias in the research process and propose methods of control.
    6. describe the function of statistics in various research methodologies.
    7. interpret basic research results, draw conclusions, identify limitations, and make recommendations for future research.
    8. use findings from original research in everyday decision-making and practical applications.


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  • JM 601 - Introduction to Justice Management

    (3 units)
    Subject matter experts engage students in examining the fundamental issues associated with the Justice Management program’s areas of concentration: Juvenile, Adult, and Executive Court/Agency Administration.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify 10 core competencies established by the National Association for Court Management and discuss their implementation in practical settings.
    2. articulate major issues in Juvenile Justice Management, Adult Justice Management and Corrections and Executive Court and Agency Administration.
    3. utilize critical thinking skills in the context of analyzing arguments based on statistical information.
    4. conduct online research of peer-reviewed scholarly articles.
    5. produce papers in APA style format.
    6. discuss responsibilities of judges, attorneys, agency personnel, and others essential to the justice system.


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  • JM 602 - Methods of Program Research, Design, and Evaluation

    (3 units)
    Review major method designs and statistical techniques, with a focus on applications suitable for justice management policy development and evaluation research.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate understanding of how abstract research ideas and theories can be turned into concrete quantitative and qualitative measurable variables.
    2. demonstrate understanding of the various constraints and ethical issues applied researchers have in the justice system.
    3. describe the various research designs used in the field and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each of these designs.
    4. formulate a research question, operationalize variables, and think about ways to analyze it.
    5. critique and assess the quality (validity and reliability) of social science research.
    6. demonstrate understanding of basic statistical analysis and writing skills needed to interpret, summarize, critique, and report data.
    7. develop a professional project proposal suitable for use as a basis for a research project in justice management and/or that can be submitted to a funding agency.


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  • JM 690A - Spec Top Essen Jus Mgmt: Court Mgmt

    (2 to 3 units)
    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: X
    Offered: Every Spring and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify core Juvenile Justice Management competencies established by the National Juvenile Court Services Association and discuss their implementation in practical settings.
    2. Be able to analyze major issues in Juvenile Justice Management.
    3. apply Juvenile Justice Management theory to practical applications.


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  • JM 690B - Special Topics: Essentials of Justice Management

    (2 to 3 units)
    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: X
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate the ability to direct, coordinate, enhance, and evaluate on-the-job performance of individuals whose work he/she is held accountable.
    2. analyze the conceptual framework of administrative supervision, educational supervision, and supportive supervision and effectively utilize these frameworks in managerial practice with client systems of all sizes in any field of practice.
    3. utilize various methods of supervision such as clinical, group, peer, ad hoc, and consultation to enhance the growth and development of employees.
    4. distinguish the concepts of coaching, counseling, training, and mentoring to develop student effective performance management.
    5. utilize the levels of supervision, i.e. demonstrate the ability to function at each of these levels.
    6. demonstrate the integration and connection between upper level management, i.e., administration, and supervision of direct practice employees.


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  • JM 690C - Spec Top Essen Jus Mgmt: Caseflow Mgmt

    (2 to 3 units)
    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: X
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate understanding of the court system, organization and process.
    2. articulate the role and function of the court administrator.
    3. demonstrate understanding of court administration and its role and function in the court system.
    4. demonstrate understanding of the concepts of separation of powers between the three branches of government and how it relates to court administration.
    5. identify the basic goals, objectives and challenges of effective caseflow management.
    6. demonstrate understanding of how courts are funded and the role of the legislature in the process.
    7. demonstrate understanding of the courts’ primary role of deciding disputes.
    8. recognize the importance of true leadership within the courtroom and the administrative office of the courts.


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  • JM 690D - Spec Top Essen Jus Mgmt: Info Technology

    (2 to 3 units)
    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: X
    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate understanding of the basics of management information systems and information technology (MIS/IT), including computer hardware, software, communications, and computer systems analysis and design.
    2. demonstrate familiarity with MIS/IT resources available for support of justice managerial decision-making and communication.
    3. demonstrate understanding of the social and business-related ramifications of the electronic superhighway.
    4. describe and analyze contemporary and developing trends in MIS/IT with emphasis on the evolution of information systems from their earlier role in accounting to their emerging role in strategic planning.
    5. apply contemporary information processing approaches to justice organizational problems, related to efficiency of operation and the maintenance of sound decision-making and policy formulation.
    6. assess the impacts of dynamic changes in the information environment and develop solution approaches to the problems created by these changes.
    7. determine how justice managers can adapt to the changing environment through the use of strategic information systems of various types.
    8. demonstrate understanding of the legal and ethical issues associated with MIS/IT in justice management.


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  • JM 690E - Spec Top Essen Jus Mgmt: Hr Mgmt

    (2 to 3 units)
    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: X
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify key concepts in cultural competence, such as culture, race, ethnicity, gender, sex, sexual orientation, ability/disability, age, and SES, exploring their influence on the value systems of individuals, communities, organizations, and society.
    2. recognize how diverse cultural experiences shape thoughts, behaviors and values of individuals, groups, organizations and communities.
    3. demonstrate understanding of the impact of culture on their own personal and professional experience and its impact on the clients they serve.
    4. examine the impact of diverse cross-cultural issues, including differences in language, socioeconomic status, and the meaning of differences, and how these impact our nation’s justice management system.
    5. develop awareness of cross-cultural issues of importance to their local justice management systems and workplace environments.
    6. apply culturally competent strategies to address these issues.
    7. utilize culturally competent principles with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities that they serve, and engage diversity and difference in practice.


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  • JM 690F - Spec Top Essen Jus Mgmt: Budget & Financ

    (2 to 3 units)
    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: X
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe the basic framework of public personnel budget and finance.
    2. identify information sources to assist a public or private manager finance manager.


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  • JM 693 - Selected Issues in Court Management

    (2 to 3 units)
    Selected issues concerning court management, such as jury management and technology, court performance standards, and other issues.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Spring - Even Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. critically evaluate research articles related to court management.
    2. demonstrate understanding of ethical issues related to court management.
    3. describe the purpose and application of theory to court management.
    4. interpret research results, draw conclusions, identify limitations, and make recommendations for court management.


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  • JM 703 - Judicial Process I

    (3 units)
    Comprehensive overview of civil law and procedure. Areas of law covered in context of causes of action filed in court. Litigation, discovery, trial.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe several different areas of civil law practice (contrasted with criminal law).
    2. list and describe elements of various causes of actions.
    3. define sources of law and distinguish between statutory law and case law.
    4. describe the anatomy of civil litigation, including the discovery process.
    5. use legal terminology appropriately.
    6. discuss court decisions and their applicability to various scenarios.


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  • JM 704 - Judicial Process II

    (3 units)
    Overview of criminal law and procedure. Diverse viewpoints of major issues in management of criminal matters. Processing cases from arraignment to parole.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. analyze and apply statutory law in criminal cases, synthesizing elements of crimes and delineating jurisdictional differences as they relate to burdens of proof for prosecution and defense.
    2. distinguish case law from statutory law and discuss how they are integrated, especially relating to rights of defendants.
    3. develop a comprehensive understanding of court procedures in criminal cases.
    4. discuss court decisions and their applicability to various scenarios.
    5. identify and apply appropriate constitutional provisions to issues arising in criminal case procedure.


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  • JM 705 - Juvenile and Family Law and Procedure

    (3 units)
    Examination of current issues and concerns in Juvenile and Family Law and procedures. Improving court practice in child abuse and neglect cases.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe how the law of juvenile and family relations developed in America.
    2. define the primary social issues that are addressed by Juvenile and Family Courts.
    3. demonstrate understanding of the difference between juvenile delinquents and status offenders.
    4. describe how probation and placement sanctions imposed on juvenile delinquents and status offenders predict life outcomes.
    5. discuss how the child protective process works in the field and in the courts.
    6. assess the effectiveness of family reunification efforts in cases of abuse and neglect.
    7. identify the legal policies that are expressed in Family Violence prevention strategies.
    8. summarize the interactions of Child Protective Workers, Probation Officers and Police Officers as they implement the decisions and orders of Juvenile and Family Courts.


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  • JM 706 - Applied Ethics in Justice Management

    (3 units)
    Ethical dilemmas and application of codes of professional responsibility for court, agency, and corrections personnel, attorneys, and judges. Distinction between legal obligations and moral duties.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify common ethical issues and dilemmas found in or arising from the practice of the following professions or performing the following jobs: prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, mental health professionals, social workers, juvenile probation officers, adult probation and parole officers, law enforcement, corrections, psychologists and others.
    2. apply key ethics concepts and ethical decision-making frameworks and protocols.
    3. the relationship between ethical standards and cultural/social diversity.
    4. demonstrate understanding of how to apply ethical standards for various professional groups by familiarization with such ethical codes as the NASW Code of Ethics, the American Probation & Parole Code of Ethics and the American Psychological Association Code of Ethics and use of these various codes as a background for a comparative analysis.
    5. demonstrate understanding of that ethical strategies should be designed to protect clients and the general public as well as to serve as a regulatory tool for members of the profession that some professions abide by codes of ethics voluntarily, that some professions are ethically regulated by law.
    6. demonstrate understanding of the prevention measures that can be implemented to identify potential ethics problem areas, how ethics complaints can arise, and how ethics complaints can lead to lawsuits.
    7. clarify the relationship between legal and professional ethics.


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  • JM 707 - Legal Research

    (3 units)
    Legal research for non-lawyers. Comprehensive look at legal resources and their organization and publication. Hands-on training in law library research and computerized research.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe and distinguish primary and secondary authorities.
    2. locate cases and statutes utilizing appropriate indexes and digests.
    3. explain elements of a court decision; brief a case.
    4. use proper citation form.
    5. shepardize a case.
    6. use computerized research to find legal authority via Lexis-Nexis and other databases.


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  • JM 708 - Legal and Administrative Report Writing

    (3 units)
    Advanced skills for professional writing. Legal: case briefing, research memoranda with case citation. Administrative policies, procedures, proposals, interpretation of statistical or fiscal data.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. compose persuasive arguments; anticipate challenges to position statements; articulate valid rationales for policies or procedures.
    2. produce concise professional and academic writings such as research analyses, literature reviews, or administrative reports.
    3. conduct peer reviews of written material and articulate solutions to identified problem areas.
    4. follow APA formatting requirements, including proper citation of references.
    5. write in a professional/academic style using proper grammar.


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  • JM 721 - Victims’ Issues, Restitution, and Restorative Justice

    (3 units)
    Study of victim’s needs and strategies to make juvenile systems responsive and effective in dealing with victims and increasing offender accountability.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. define restorative justice.
    2. demonstrate understanding of the difference between rehabilitation, retribution and restorative justice.
    3. perceive the importance of protection of the community to the system of accountability.
    4. demonstrate understanding of the role that victims can and should play in a juvenile justice system.
    5. demonstrate understanding of the concept of balanced and restorative justice.
    6. demonstrate understanding of the purpose of mediation and other topics or techniques of restorative justice in a juvenile justice system.
    7. demonstrate understanding of how a punitive system can be contrasted with reform efforts in the treatment of juveniles.


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  • JM 723 - Early Intervention and Crime Prevention

    (3 units)
    Effective strategies for intervention with young offenders and the role of juvenile justice in crime prevention.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify when the use of detention is appropriate for juvenile offenders.
    2. demonstrate understanding of how detention diversion efforts can prove helpful to youth to avoid re-offending.
    3. demonstrate understanding of how risk and needs assessment instruments can assist juvenile justice professionals in detention diversion efforts.
    4. demonstrate understanding of that dually involved youth (those treated by both the juvenile justice and child welfare or child protective service systems) can benefit from early intervention programs and services.
    5. demonstrate understanding of the concept of graduated sanctions and see how the early delivery of services to youth can benefit them by preventing them from penetrating more deeply into the juvenile justice system.
    6. identify disproportionate minority contact in the juvenile justice system and understand ways it can be mitigated.
    7. identify the categories of services and programs to which youth and their families can be directed and be able to assign the appropriate type and level of service to these youths.
    8. demonstrate understanding of the concept of system collaboration and learn why it is essential that juvenile justice systems be able to work with mental health, educational and other service provider systems in order to achieve positive results for youths and families.


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  • JM 725 - Race and Gender in Juvenile Justice

    (3 units)
    Overview of offender race and gender within crime and juvenile processing statistics. Emphasis on contributing factors for disparity, effectiveness of policies and programs addressing disparity.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate understanding of the issue of race in the juvenile justice system.
    2. demonstrate understanding of the issue of ethnicity in the juvenile justice system.
    3. define and discuss the concept of racial disparities in juvenile justice.
    4. analyze the racial and ethnic disparities in the offending and processing of youths in the American juvenile justice system.
    5. demonstrate understanding of Juveniles in detention: How girls differ from boys.
    6. demonstrate understanding of the gendered nature of risk factors for delinquency.
    7. demonstrate understanding of the juvenile justice system serves the distinct needs of female offenders.
    8. demonstrate understanding of the impact on mental health issues on minority and female processing in the juvenile justice system.


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  • JM 730 - Privatization in Justice Management

    (3 units)
    Examination of the conceptual foundations of privatization of justice services including an analysis of selected case studies, contracts, and requests for proposal of service.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring - Even Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. articulate accepted advantages and dis-advantages of criminal justice privatization.
    2. identify the historical stages of prison privatization.
    3. identify the seminal privatization studies since 1980 as well as the limitations of each study.
    4. research and identify privatization efforts in the participant’s criminal justice field.
    5. distinguish between system and service privatization.
    6. identify the key issues in contract and request for service development.


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  • JM 732 - History and Development of Parole and Probation

    (3 units)
    In-depth study of Parole and Probation, including an overview of the department, effective management, and public safety issues.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of Probation, parole, and community corrections as it impacts public safety and justice systems.
    2. identify and describe historical developments that led to the creation of probation and parole and analyze how they have shaped policies and practices in probation and parole.
    3. identify the major theories in psychology and sociology that are applicable to the practice of probation, parole, and community corrections; analyze their influence in everyday policies and practices in the probation, parole, and community corrections professions.
    4. identify evidence-based practices for recidivism reduction; synthesize probation and parole recidivism research data produced over the past 60 years; relate empirical research findings to policies and practices in probation, parole and community corrections; compare current policies and practices to the “state-of-the-art” as identified through scientific research on probation and parole; Assess and analyze “risk management” and offender behavioral reform through evidence-based practices versus politically-driven and seemingly commonsensical approaches to managing offenders.
    5. provide a comprehensive understanding of the role and impact of judges and parole boards on probation and parole, contrasting actual credential profiles, duties and responsibilities, and ideal credential profiles of key policymakers in probation, parole, and community corrections.
    6. demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of various forms of specialized programs in probation, parole, and community corrections, and their effectiveness based on assessment and evaluation research.
    7. develop familiarity with language and terminology of Probation and Parole as used by internal stakeholders.
    8. develop essential skills and knowledge in the preparation and appropriate use of presentence investigation reports, offender assessment, and case planning and management, demonstrating an understanding of structured risk assessments, uses and benefits of actuarial risk assessment for workload management and recidivism reduction.


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  • JM 734 - Mental Health Issues in Justice Management

    (3 units)
    Examination of selected issues confronting the criminal justice system today such as criminalization of the mentally ill, diagnosis and screening, forced psychotropic medication, and re-entry.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate understanding of the risk and protective factors associated with Juvenile delinquency and mental health concerns.
    2. critically analyze factors associated with disproportionate numbers of ethic, minority, and disability groups who are adjudicated delinquent and the relationship to various mental health issues.
    3. demonstrate an understanding of the social and educational characteristics of chronic and serious youth offenders, including those with disabilities and special education needs.
    4. critically evaluate different juvenile justice programs as to their effectiveness with juvenile delinquents. This includes: (a) the adequacy of the research and knowledge base; (b) the range of applicability; (c) the value and ethical issues, including the student’s own value system; and (d) the policy implications involved in delivery of mental health services to juvenile delinquents.
    5. demonstrate an understanding of how to adapt juvenile justice program models and strategies to meet the unique needs of persons from diverse backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, culture, class, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, developmental level, age and national origin.
    6. identify and objectively discuss the current critical mental health issues associated with the justice system.
    7. demonstrate a working knowledge of the impact of the topic on the justice system and the public.
    8. identify and discuss the alternative courses of action available Juvenile Court System to provide quality services for this difficult population.


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  • JM 735 - Special Topics in Homeland Security: the Dynamics the Threat Groups

    (3 units)
    Explore the historical, current and future impact of national and international threat groups to homeland security.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. provide some definitions for terrorism and analyze the concept.
    2. understand and explain the historical origins and evolution of terrorism.
    3. delineate the government agencies that are responsible for ensuring security to the United States and its interests abroad.
    4. identify the groups threatening homeland security and characterize the type and severity of the threats they pose.
    5. summarize the strategies developed by the United States to counter terrorist threats.
    6. assess the effectiveness of America’s homeland security efforts to date.
    7. recognize and discuss future threats to homeland security.


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  • JM 736 - Special Topics in Homeland Security: the Impact On National and International Jurisprudence

    (3 units)
    Assess the impact of security threat groups and homeland security on national and international law and case law.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Offered: Every Spring - Even Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify the constitutional law and federal statutes that provide authority for our war on terrorism and homeland security efforts, including FISA, the USA Patriot Act and others.
    2. locate and explain the policy objectives and methods of the Bush Administration as it has undertaken to promote freedom in the world and ensure security in our country.
    3. delineate tactics and plans the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ispursuing to identify terrorists, regulate travel, secure our borders, and promote the safety of our country.
    4. understand and discuss the different viewpoints on the use of enhanced interrogation, torture, indefinite detention and other issues involving “enemy combatants” and others held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
    5. articulate the constitutional issues confronting the courts in the United States as they begin to scrutinize the methods utilized in our war on terrorism.
    6. summarize the rulings of America’s federal courts and judicial authorities in other nations on recent cases filed by those who have been arrested, captured and detained since 9/11.
    7. recognize and discuss legal issues regarding the future of habeas corpus, use of military tribunals, domestic and foreign wiretapping and other major questions raised in our pursuit of homeland security.


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  • JM 737 - Special Topics in Homeland Security: Technology

    (3 units)
    Exploration of the impact of security threat groups and homeland security on technology and counter-terrorism, including current and cutting edge biometric, database and psychological assessment.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Lecture: 3
    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify the constitutional law and federal statutes that provide authority for technology based homeland security efforts.
    2. locate and explain the policy objectives and technology methods to promote freedom in the world and ensure security in our country.
    3. delineate tactics and plans the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ispursuing to identify terrorists, regulate travel, secure our borders, and promote the safety of our country.
    4. articulate the technological issues confronting the courts in the United States as they begin to scrutinize the technological methods utilized in our war on terrorism.


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  • JM 780 - Independent Study

    (1 to 6 units)
    Supervised pursuit of special problems associated with justice management.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. Integrate classroom learning, theory, and course content with their independent study.
    2. apply academic knowledge to solve practical, real-world problems.
    3. identify areas of professional development and develop strategies to improve in those areas.


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  • JM 781 - Internship in Justice Management

    (1 to 3 units)
    Supervised theoretical and applied experience in the justice system.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 3

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Internship/Practicum: X
    Offered: Every Fall, Spring, and Summer

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. integrate classroom learning, theory, and course content with their internship experiences.
    2. identify, assess, and develop personal and professional strengths.
    3. describe and explain work responsibilities and duties.
    4. apply academic knowledge to solve practical, real-world problems in a professional setting.
    5. articulate and demonstrate improvement in professional etiquette (including time management, dress code, formal versus informal protocols, etc).
    6. develop professionally relevant competencies and relationships in a professional setting.
    7. articulate and demonstrate team work, collaboration, and leadership.
    8. articulate how the internship experiences align with career options, interests, and skills (i.e. how have experiences expanded, directed, or confirmed career options, interests, and skills).


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  • JM 790 - Special Topics in Justice

    (1 to 3 units)
    Study of special topics related to Justice. May be repeated when content differs.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 9

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Spring - Even Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate understanding of the reciprocal relationship between psychology and law.
    2. demonstrate understanding of how psychology affects the law, the legal system, and legal actors (e.g., jurors, police officers).
    3. demonstrate understanding of how the legal system affects psychology in return (e.g., how laws affect behavior).
    4. explain the use of psychological concepts, methods, and research results in law.
    5. explain the basic dilemmas that persist in the legal system and the ethical, moral, legal, and “gray areas” of the law.
    6. demonstrate understanding of how psychology plays a part in influencing legal decisions, policies, and practices.


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  • JM 791 - Special Topics in Juvenile Justice Management

    (1 to 3 units)
    Study of special topics related to Juvenile Justice Management. May be repeated when content differs.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 9

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. demonstrate an understanding of the risk factors associated with juvenile sex offenders’ delinquency.
    2. demonstrate an understanding of the social and educational characteristics of chronic and serious youth offenders, including those with disabilities and special education needs.
    3. critically evaluate different juvenile justice programs as to their effectiveness with juvenile sex offenders. This includes: (a) the adequacy of the research and knowledge base; (b) the range of applicability; (c) the value and ethical issues, including the student’s own value system; and (d) the policy implications involved in delivery of mental health services to juvenile delinquents and youthful offenders.
    4. demonstrate an understanding of how to adapt juvenile justice program models and strategies to meet the unique needs of persons from diverse backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, culture, class, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, developmental level, age and national origin.
    5. describe how probation and parole sanctions imposed on juveniles with sexual offender concerns predict short term and long term life outcomes.
    6. demonstrate understanding of how child physical, sexual, emotional abuse and trauma impacts the relationship to lifelong mental health issues.
    7. demonstrate understanding of the implementation of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) on the juvenile justice practitioner.


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  • JM 792 - Special Topics in Adult Justice Management

    (1 to 3 units)
    Study of special topics related to Adult Justice Management. May be repeated when content differs.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 9

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. define community prosecution and its general principles.
    2. compare traditional prosecution and community prosecution.
    3. discuss public policy issues related to community prosecution.
    4. evaluate crime problems that affect the quality of life in the community and formulate solutions to those problems.


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  • JM 793 - Special Topics in Executive Court and Agency Administration

    (1 to 3 units)
    Study of special topics related to Executive Court and Agency Administration. May be repeated when content differs.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 9

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. integrate advanced-level subject matter into an educational product.
    2. effectively use technology to deliver new subject matter content.
    3. design an online training module based on principles of teaching adult learners.
    4. develop assessments for evaluating outcomes.
    5. critically assess the effectiveness of an online training module.
    6. analyze and evaluate the effectiveness and educational value of an online training module in practical applications.


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  • JM 796 - Professional Project

    (3 units)
    Submission of plan for change in specific agency, organization, or community. Upon approval, student will implement plan and submit report on process and outcome.

    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Independent Study: 3
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. produce a professional project paper that is approved by the students graduate committee.
    2. show advanced ability to draw on both previously learned and acquired knowledge of research techniques, experience, critical thinking and creativity, applying theory and/or practice critically.


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  • JM 797 - Thesis

    (1 to 6 units)
    Grading Basis: Graded
    Units of Independent Study: X
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. devise original submissions that demonstrate deep and through knowledge and understanding of key ideas related to the project, and engagement with material introduced in the project.
    2. show advanced ability to draw on both previously learned and acquired knowledge of research techniques, experience, critical thinking and creativity, applying theory and/or practice critically.
    3. explore thoroughly scholarly or creative works in the public domain to discover others’ ideas about chosen topics, and use, quote and reference those ideas correctly.


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  • JM 899 - Graduate Advisement

    (1 to 4 units)
    Provides access to faculty for continued consultation and advisement. Credits may not be applied to any degree requirements. Limited to 8 credits (2 semesters) enrollment. For non-thesis masters degree students only.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 8

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:


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Justice Studies
  

  • JS 601 - Ethics and Judging: Reaching Higher Ground

    (1 unit)
    Using hypothetical scenarios, online discussions, role-playing and interaction with the faculty members, students will explore a variety of ethical issues facing the judiciary. For credit toward the judicial studies degrees, the judicial officer must be enrolled in or eligible to enroll in the judicial studies degree programs at the University of Nevada, Reno.

    Prerequisite(s): Current judicial officer (e.g., judge, hearing officer, magistrate, justice of the peace). Recommended Preparation: JS 610 , JS 611 , or JS 612  (two-week foundational courses for new judicial officers).

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 1
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify and distinguish between proper and improper court-related behavior.
    2. identify and distinguish between proper and improper action in dealing with self-represented litigants.
    3. identify and distinguish between proper and improper action in dealing with ex parte communication.
    4. identify and explain how bias and stereotyping may impact court proceedings.
    5. identify and explain how perceptions of immigrants, different cultures, and gender may impact court proceedings.
    6. ify the effect of any bias and prejudice in order to maintain the integrity of the court for all participants.
    7. identify and rectify areas of bias in the courtroom.


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  • JS 602 - Select Criminal Evidence Issues

    (1 unit)
    This course provides judges with the tools to make evidentiary rulings quickly and confidently in criminal cases.

    Prerequisite(s): Currently serving as a judicial officer (e.g., judge, hearing officer, magistrate, justice of the peace). See www.judicialstudies.unr.edu/handbook.pdf for additional information on eligibility.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 1
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. evaluate evidentiary foundations and admissibility.
    2. evaluate evidentiary issues involving competency and child witness testimony.
    3. distinguish among rules governing authentication of evidence, including electronic evidence.
    4. analyze the rationale for the rule on expert opinion evidence.
    5. distinguish hearsay and determine the admissibility of evidence which is asserted to be hearsay, and is under selected hearsay exceptions.
    6. generate a plan to conquer future issues by analyzing national trends in evidence/scientific evidence.


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  • JS 610 - General Jurisdiction

    (4 to 6 units)
    Comprehensive introduction to judicial system, role of judges, recent developments (legal, procedural, technological) in trials and the judiciary as a specialized institution.

    Maximum units a student may earn: 6

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: X
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. manage courtroom and individual cases, including cases involving self-represented litigants.
    2. handle juries and sentencing more effectively.
    3. make fair and unbiased decisions.
    4. communicate more effectively from the bench.
    5. summarize and apply developments in 4th & 5th amendment law, civil ADR techniques, domestic violence and family law.
    6. rule on evidence more confidently.
    7. create an appropriate case flow management system for their court.
    8. examine and address electronically stored information discovery issues.
    9. develop tools to address media inquiry and social media use in their courtroom.


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  • JS 611 - Special Court Jurisdiction–Advanced

    (4 units)
    Comprehensive introduction to the judicial system, roles of the judge, recent developments (legal, managerial, technological) in trials and the judiciary as a specialized institution.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 4
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe the role and responsibilities of a judge.
    2. recognize the evolving role of the judge as a change agent in the community.
    3. apply a practical approach to Fourth Amendment issues and use approved guidelines for issuing search warrants.
    4. conduct criminal hearings and trials in compliance with constitutional and statutory standards.
    5. recognize various ethical concerns which may arise in the courtroom, and learn how to effectively manage those issues.
    6. communicate effectively in the courtroom .
    7. determine appropriate sentencing alternatives for specific offenses and offenders.
    8. recognize and utilize the psychological profiles of criminal personalities in sentencing.
    9. manage the courtroom and individual cases efficiently and comfortably, including cases involving pro se litigants.
    10. mitigate potential trial disruptions and utilize effective courtroom control measures.
    11. improve litigant, attorney and public confidence in the courts by using proper case, calendar and trial management techniques..
    12. improve writing skills.


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  • JS 612 - Administrative Law: Fair Hearing

    (4 units)
    comprehensive foundational course in administrative law adjudication including hearing practices, handling of witnesses, decision writing and case management.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 4
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. recognize the role and function of administrative agencies and describe the role of the ALJ in the administrative process.
    2. Identify barriers to successful communication and develop communication skills to improve the conduct of administrative hearings.
    3. develop techniques to improve case management.
    4. Identify and apply appropriate prehearing practices.
    5. open and close a hearing and impart necessary information.
    6. conduct a telephone hearing.
    7. properly evaluate and rule upon claims of privileged communication.
    8. effectively manage exhibits.
    9. apply applicable rules of evidence and procedure to the administrative hearing.
    10. demonstrate ability to maintain control of the hearing and ensure that a complete and clear record is made.
    11. recognize the standards of review used by appellate courts when reviewing administrative agency decisions.
    12. articulate of the rules of hearsay.


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  • JS 613 - Criminal Evidence

    (2 units)
    Analyzes how rules of evidence, emphasizing federal rules, are applied to criminal trials. Provides some historical perspective starting with common law.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. Recognize, analyze, and rule correctly on issues involving whether to allow or disallow evidence based upon relevancy.
    2. apply the principles of authentication and identification to various categories of evidence, including digital records and social media.
    3. apply rules regarding character evidence.
    4. recognize and analyze whether evidence qualifies as hearsay; rule more effectively and expeditiously on complex hearsay issues.
    5. determine proper admission of opinion testimony of experts and lay witnesses.
    6. critically examine psychiatric opinion evidence.
    7. apply rules governing admission of impeachment and rehabilitation evidence in criminal cases.
    8. apply the rules relating to business records.
    9. apply the holding of Crawford v. Washington, 541 U.S. 36 (2004).
    10. recognize ethical issues that arise in considering evidentiary matters.
    11. discuss evidentiary issues facing the judges when attorneys use presentation technology.


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  • JS 615 - Judicial Writing

    (2 units)
    Examines effective examples of good legal writing; identifies underlying principles of English composition; encourages judges to adopt clear, concise style by writing and rewriting.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. evaluate the aims, audiences and styles of judicial writing.
    2. write clearly, precisely and unambiguously.
    3. recognize, diagnose and revise difficult and unclear writing.
    4. demonstrate understanding of the relationship between writing and decision making.


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  • JS 617 - Advanced Evidence

    (2 units)
    Identification and analysis of common evidentiary problems faced by general jurisdiction courts in civil cases.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. rule on evidentiary issues with greater accuracy and confidence.
    2. recognize the judicial role of gatekeeper.
    3. demonstrate ability to ensure that the baseline relevancy issues are met and their probative value outweighs unfair prejudice.
    4. analyze quickly whether character evidence is admissible, particularly with regard to prior bad acts.
    5. describe when habit and custom evidence may be admitted.
    6. rule on impeachment objections after analyzing bias, capacity and prior inconsistent statement rules.
    7. outline an analytical scheme for ruling on hearsay objections and the exceptions.
    8. identify and rule on confrontation issues arising under Crawford and later cases.
    9. confidently rule on issues relating to lay opinion and expert opinion testimony.


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  • JS 618 - Decision-Making Process

    (2 units)
    Identifies the ingredients of the decision-making process and acquaints judges with the psychological, sociological and philosophical aspects of dispute resolutions.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. review the scope and breadth of judicial decision making.
    2. apply the MBTI to how you make decisions.
    3. recognize the importance of knowing your audience and effectively dealing with different audiences.
    4. identify the primary philosophical bases/schools of ethical thought and apply them to your decisions.
    5. analyze and explain how you would rule in situations that pose ethical dilemmas.
    6. recognize and apply the different standards of review.
    7. develop and apply a writing formula that will enable you to write more effective orders and/or opinions.
    8. determine the various phases of judicial decision making to develop better judicial decision making characteristics.
    9. explain the legal standards pertaining to exercise of discretion.
    10. recognize and identify methods to avoid ethical dilemmas arising out of conflicts of interest and extra-judicial activities.
    11. recognize the most common conditions affecting the reliability of judicial decision making.
    12. determine areas in which bias my affect judicial decision making.


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  • JS 619 - Ethical Issues In Law

    (2 units)
    Discussion and analysis of ethical behavior and justice at the point in which law, literature and life experience intersect.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe the ways in which literature exemplifies ethical issues facing the judiciary.
    2. identify an author’s views of justice and the judge’s responsibilities to administer justice in poetry, short stories and the selected works of William Shakespeare.
    3. explain and apply judicial ethics in a manner that enhances public confidence in the judiciary.
    4. identify the formal fallacies associated with “deductive reasoning.
    5. recognize the kinds of sentences you tend to use and edit your own writing.
    6. describe what we do when we read and state why the psychology of reading is important to writers.
    7. demonstrate refined understanding of the constituent parts of a judicial opinion.
    8. identify and avoid ambiguous and unclear grammatical constructions.


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  • JS 621 - Logic and Opinion Writing

    (2 units)
    An in-depth examination of the underlying principles of logical reasoning and the application of these principles to judicial opinion writing.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe the place of logic and reasoning in judicial decision making.
    2. distinguish between inductive and deductive reasoning.
    3. identify a valid syllogism.
    4. identify the formal fallacies associated with “deductive reasoning.”
    5. recognize the kinds of sentences they tend to use and edit their own writing.
    6. describe what they do when they read and state why the psychology of reading is important to writers.
    7. demonstrate refined understanding of the constituent parts of a judicial opinion.
    8. identify and avoid ambiguous and unclear grammatical constructions.


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  • JS 622 - Sci Evid/Expert Testimony

    (2 units)
    Overview of use of medical evidence in the courtroom: nature of scientific evidence, expert testimony, pathology, toxicology, child abuse, and technological innovation.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. recognize the judge’s role as a “gatekeeper” of scientific evidence and expert testimony.
    2. assess the consistencies and contradictions between the culture of science and the culture of law.
    3. demonstrate understanding of the basic scientific and statistical concepts of “confidence intervals” and “statistical significance”, and understand how the two interrelate.
    4. identify the scientific methods available to researchers studying complex human behavior.
    5. rule with greater precision on the admissibility of DNA genetic identification evidence.
    6. outline the function and proper qualifications of a forensic pathologist.
    7. identify the key concepts of how computer forensic evidence is recovered and examined.


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  • JS 623 - Handling Capital Cases

    (2 units)
    Techniques for instituting and maintaining high-quality court management of capital cases; addresses the demands and judicial responsibilities unique to capital cases.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. summarize the trends in recent U.S. Supreme Court capital cases.
    2. manage a capital case more effectively.
    3. manage pre-trial and trial issues in a capital case.
    4. demonstrate ability to ensure that a jury has been properly “death qualified” through voir dire.
    5. properly manage and define the role of the media to ensure accurate and fair information is given to the public.
    6. apply practical techniques to effectively communicate and manage mentally ill defendants in court proceedings.
    7. conduct the penalty phase of a capital case.
    8. effectively handle post-conviction claims.


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  • JS 624 - Enhancing Judicial Bench Skills

    (2 units)
    Emphasizes the essential management and communication skills needed to effectively oversee the courtroom.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe the effect of stress on judicial performance.
    2. create solutions for problems that commonly arise with self-represented litigants.
    3. develop and promote civility in the courtroom.
    4. handle trial disruptions with confidence.
    5. communicate more effectively from the bench.
    6. identify techniques to minimize the impact of unconscious bias.
    7. recognize the judge’s role in making and protecting the record.
    8. discuss viable court security options.


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  • JS 625 - Dispute Resolution

    (2 units)
    Examines strength, weaknesses, and potential uses of alternative dispute resolution methods, including arbitration, mediation, many-trials, and summary jury trials.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. Identify differing dispute resolution devices, and determine when ADR techniques can be used to ensure the administration of justice.
    2. apply the differing dispute resolution devices on the bench.
    3. define an action plan for inserting ADR techniques in to your case processing or in developing a program for your court.
    4. identify the principles that govern psychogeography.
    5. demonstrate understanding of the unique ethical considerations related to ADR.


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  • JS 626 - Advanced Judicial Writing

    (2 units)
    Judges with extensive writing duties will extend skills developed in JS 615. They will work intensively on their own writing projects in the classroom and with private tutorials.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. analyze a wide range of argument patterns.
    2. identify multiple aims and audiences of judicial writing.
    3. deconstruct complex legal sentences.
    4. recognize and improve sentence patterns associated with issues, statements, findings of fact, and legal conclusions.
    5. apply principles of style.


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  • JS 627 - Effective Caseflow Management

    (2 units)
    Techniques for processing cases in an expeditious manner while being responsive to legal requirements. Chief judges, trial judges and judicial administrators will benefit.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify the purposes of courts and their direct impact on caseflow management.
    2. integrate caseflow management into judiciary goals and local legal cultures.
    3. define caseflow management and its proven principles and practices.
    4. identify the characteristics of strong system-wide leadership and its impact on caseflow management.
    5. recognize and map caseflow from a systemic perspective.
    6. apply standardized case management performance measures.
    7. utilize case management data to analyze performance.
    8. apply the principles of case management to calendaring, hearings and trials.
    9. plan and create a case management system to effect change in your court.


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  • JS 628 - Practical Approaches to Substance Abuse Issues

    (2 units)
    Analysis of substance abuse issues in the criminal justice system including treatment, plea bargains, penalties, mental illness and referrals.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify the issues and problems of substance abuse in the justice system.
    2. recognize the physiological and pharmacological aspects of substance abuse.
    3. compare drug-testing methodologies.
    4. design an action plan to address problems identified as affecting substance-abusing offenders.
    5. identify aspects of the treatment and recovery process for persons with substance abuse issues.


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  • JS 629 - Managing the Complex Case

    (2 units)
    Emphasis on judges role in controlling and managing complex cases from first filing through discovery, pretrial conferences, trial, finding of facts and conclusion of law and opinion. High-tech shortcuts explored.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify those cases that will require extraordinary management efforts and summarize some of the ethical ramifications that complex cases present.
    2. describe the resources necessary to manage complex cases effectively and efficiently and recognize the management option that is best suited to the particular complex case before you outline the pretrial procedures that will assist you in controlling the litigants, lawyers, and pace of the complex case and draft a case management order to suit your particular needs.
    3. recall the advantages and disadvantages of Federal/State coordination and the procedure for effectively coordinating complex cases.
    4. manage juries, witnesses, exhibits, and the opening and closing arguments during a complex case with greater confidence.
    5. identify procedures and policies that will define how judges manage complex cases in the future.


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  • JS 632 - Conducting the Trial

    (2 units)
    Discusses the practical innovative techniques and styles that affect the daily role of a trial judge, including the role of the judge before, during and post-trial.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. recognize effective case management strategies and apply them to ensure that you can provide credible trial dates to litigants.
    2. manage pretrial issues, including discovery and motions, and preside over pretrial conferences.
    3. apply early settlement techniques and styles to individual cases.
    4. resolve unexpected issues that may arise during jury trials.
    5. manage opening and closing arguments and control the introduction of evidence.
    6. effectively manage self-represented litigants in the courtroom.
    7. discuss and implement viable court security options.


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  • JS 633 - Evidence in a Courtroom Setting

    (2 units)
    A practical presentation and consideration of evidence in the courtroom using the Federal Rules of Evidence and applicable state rules.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. discuss the Constitution and Rules of Evidence, including recent case law of this issue.
    2. explain the balancing analysis for admission of relevant evidence.
    3. determine the admissibility of lay and expert witness opinions.
    4. recognize the methods of impeaching the testimony of a witness.
    5. define “hearsay” and apply that definition to identify hearsay evidence.
    6. analyze practical methods to manage trial evidence in your courtroom.


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  • JS 634 - Managing Challenging Family Law Cases

    (2 units)
    Daily decisions concerning custody issues, child support enforcement issues, evidentiary issues in child abuse/neglect, financial considerations as part of the curriculum.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. apply child development research, safety-based parenting information, and information about immigration consequences into parenting plan decision-making.
    2. articulate the implications of distributing personal and business assets as part of a marital dissolution.
    3. implement techniques to acknowledge and eliminate bias and ensure procedural fairness.


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  • JS 636 - Domestic Violence

    (2 units)
    Examine pretrial and trial issues in domestic violence cases; explore cutting edge issues; TROs and contempt powers; child sexual abuse issues; sentencing.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. recognize the characteristics of perpetrators and victims.
    2. apply principals of procedural fairness to domestic violence cases and more effectively manage domestic hearings with self-represented litigants.
    3. determine which remedies are available and/or appropriate for temporary, interim and permanent Orders of Protection.
    4. make appropriate custody and access orders in cases involving domestic violence.
    5. describe the effects of domestic violence on children.
    6. discuss Full Faith and Credit Legislation as it pertains to protection orders.
    7. recognize reasons victims may be reluctant or refuse to testify.
    8. rule with confidence on evidentiary issues in domestic violence cases.
    9. apply appropriate sentencing options in domestic violence cases.


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  • JS 638 - Probate Courts: Contemporary Issues

    (2 units)
    This course explores the primary matters for probate adjudicators including jurisdiction, standing, estate composition, end-of-life issues, self-represented litigants, fiduciaries and accounting, and settlement techniques.

    Prerequisite(s): Current judicial officer (e.g., judge, hearing officer, magistrate, justice of the peace).

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. critically discuss the legal definition of competency.
    2. synthesize promising practices toward administering trusts, wills, fiduciary appointments, and other probate matters, including trust accounting and tax issues.
    3. analyze cases to understand their potential impact on future cases.
    4. critically discuss the elements of an effective democracy.
    5. evaluate the efficacy of fiduciaries, guardians, and other persons with duties recognized by law.


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  • JS 642 - Today’s Justice: the Historic Bases

    (2 units)
    Overview of landmark documents, statues and cases which have formed the fundamental U.S. rights, such as trial by jury, due process, equal protection and judicial review.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. analyze the historic bases of fundamental legal rights.
    2. outline the continuum of legal rights as it has developed from medieval England to contemporary times.
    3. discuss landmark documents, statutes, and cases on fundamental legal rights.
    4. relate those landmark documents, statutes, and cases to today’s administration of justice.


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  • JS 644 - When Justice Fails: Threats to the Independence of the Judiciary

    (2 units)
    An analysis of threats to the independence of the judiciary, with World War II war crimes and related contemporary issues used as examples.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. discuss how an independent judiciary contributes to a just society.
    2. identify elements necessary to an independent judiciary.
    3. list the challenges to judicial independence currently being faced by judges in different countries.
    4. describe the key factors in the loss of judicial independence in Nazi Germany.
    5. analyze trends that are currently impacting America’s judicial independence.


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  • JS 645 - Fourth Amendment: Comprehensive Search & Seizure

    (2 units)
    Analysis of what constitutes search/seizure; when it is within the Fourth Amendment; admissibility; issues in voluntary search consent;

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe limitations on protected interests including open fields, assumption of risk, voluntary disclosure and abandoned property.
    2. articulate the Supreme Court’s framework to address standing.
    3. identify the present scope of Fourth Amendment protection in areas around residences and businesses.
    4. describe the lower burden on the government to prove consent to search was voluntary under the Fourth Amendment compared to the government’s burden to prove “waiver” and voluntary relinquishment of rights under the Fifth and Sixth Amendments.
    5. determine when a seizure occurs within the meaning of the Fourth Amendment.
    6. identify the Terry v. Ohio frisk, plain view and plain feel, protective sweeps, exigent circumstances, and inventory exceptions to the search warrant requirement.
    7. determine the applicability of the Fourth Amendment to automobile searches.
    8. summarize the “knock and announce” rule and identify the limits of detaining a person during the execution of a search warrant.
    9. summarize the elements of a valid search warrant.
    10. define when to hold motion hearings and rule on standing issues with greater accuracy.
    11. summarize the exclusionary rule; define the “fruit of the poisonous tree” doctrine; describe when the “attenuation of the taint” doctrine applies; identify when the “independent source” doctrine applies; describe the “inevitable discovery” rule; identify the applicability of “good faith” in the area of inevitable discovery; and summarize the “impeachment” exception to the exclusionary rule.


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  • JS 649 - Administrative Law: Advanced

    (2 units)
    An in-depth analysis of judicial writing methods, pre-trial strategies, judicial bench skills, management strategies and recent developments in administrative law.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify the sources of unpredictability in the law, the process of legal reasoning by example and the importance and limitations of stare decisis.
    2. create and utilize specialized techniques to effectively manage prehearing conferences.
    3. articulate the need for adequate security during administrative proceedings and provide suggestions for security enhancements.
    4. distinguish the various forms of dispute resolution and determine the applicability of a particular model to proceedings conducted by the administrative agency.
    5. recognize various models of decision-making and types of decisions.
    6. render decisions that are effective, clear and well-reasoned.
    7. produce the best record possible on appeal.
    8. apply selected concepts of constitutional law, including the Fourth Amendment prohibition against unreasonable searches and seizures and the Fifth Amendment prohibition against self-incrimination in the administrative law setting and recognize differing philosophies applicable to criminal and civil cases.


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  • JS 650 - Judicial Philosophy and American Law

    (2 units)
    This course traces the philosophical underpinning of American law and how it has evolved, and how it may be applied to future problems. Special emphasis is placed on historical events that have shaped American law. For credit toward the judicial studies degrees, the judicial officer must be enrolled in or eligible to enroll in the judicial studies degree programs at the University of Nevada, Reno.

    Prerequisite(s): Current judicial officer (e.g., judge, hearing officer, magistrate, justice of the peace).

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe the philosophical background of the U.S. as a democracy
    2. summarize the unique role that certain individuals have played in the American judicial system
    3. outline current and future issues facing the judicial system
    4. analyze cases to understand their potential impact on future cases
    5. articulate the elements of an effective democracy
    6. identify what values and goals a successful judicial system should include


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  • JS 660 - Core College

    (2 units)
    Foundation of knowledge and skills in the area of juvenile law with emphasis on decision-making, dispositional alternatives and special problems relating to children.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. identify and detail three essential activities a new judge should engage in to demonstrate leadership and describe potential challenges and rewards associated with each activity.
    2. describe common ethical issues a new judge should be aware of when using social media.
    3. articulate the main requirements of the Indian Child Welfare Act and explain how judges can stay in compliance.
    4. explain the rationale behind “adolescence as a mitigating factor” in the context of delinquency and assignment of consequences.
    5. weigh the risks and benefits of interviewing children in chambers versus in open court and describe different approaches to interviewing children of various ages.
    6. articulate how influential relationships and effective parenting can help guide development and can encourage resiliency in children.
    7. outline the psychobiosocial consequences of chronic stress due to adverse childhood experiences and the impact on brain development.
    8. create a strategy for justice, educational, and allied systems to become more trauma-informed at points of contact with children, youth, and families.
    9. describe the symptoms of secondary traumatic stress and list specific stress management techniques.


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  • JS 661 - Family Law and Domestic Relations Issues

    (2 units)
    Examination of current issues and concerns in family law with emphasis on custody and child support decisions.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. implement strategies to identify the presence of domestic violence and employ an array of parenting arrangements in custody orders that involve domestic violence.
    2. provide an overview of the neuroscience of addiction and discuss how this knowledge can help courts address addiction in the family.
    3. apply knowledge of basic tax issues when creating the structure of a permanent maintenance/alimony order and weigh the costs and benefits of including a QDRO.
    4. explain how the filing of a bankruptcy case during a pending divorce action can impact divorce procedure, the enforcement of support orders, and contempt proceedings.
    5. articulate the challenges judges face in cases concerning never-married parents and tools for creating positive outcomes.
    6. describe the opportunities and challenges involved in linking parenting time with child support determinations.
    7. discuss the importance of maintaining bonds between incarcerated parents and their children and identify practical solutions to overcome possible barriers.
    8. explain how social media and new technologies present evidentiary issues for judges, affect cases of domestic violence and stalking, and can facilitate virtual parent-child contact.
    9. utilize effective case handling procedures for self-represented litigant cases.
    10. explain the unique needs of military-connected children and list major resources available to their families.


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  • JS 662 - Evidentiary Problems in the Juvenile and Family Court

    (2 units)
    Current evidence considerations and challenges facing judges hearing juvenile and family cases.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. discuss the reliability of eyewitness testimony and utilize clues to help determine its accuracy.
    2. describe the factors that can affect children’s suggestibility and memory recall and list best practices for conducting interviews with children.
    3. explain how adolescent brain development, particularly the development of the prefrontal cortex, influences decision-making skills and risk-taking behaviors.
    4. define and contrast capacity and competency in the context of adolescent maturity/immaturity.
    5. articulate why juveniles are more vulnerable to interrogation techniques that generate false confessions.
    6. discuss the purpose of psychological testing, evaluate the qualifications of an expert to give such tests, and determine if such tests are being used appropriately.
    7. explain how the cases of Frye v. U.S. and Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc. affected the admissibility of scientific testimony and a judge’s responsibility as a gatekeeper.
    8. describe the impact of the Sixth Amendment confrontation clause on the admissibility of hearsay.
    9. assess the legal and social significance of testimonial parent-child privilege.
    10. identify the role logic, personality, life experience, and values play in judicial decision making.


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  • JS 663 - Advanced Juvenile Justice Management Institute

    (2 units)
    Examination of management concerns for juvenile court management including budgeting, personnel recruitment, selection and performance evaluation.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. attend live training sessions on juvenile justice best-practice presented at a national conference.
    2. develop assessments for evaluating outcomes in juvenile justice practice.
    3. effectively demonstrate understanding of the use of technology in juvenile justice practice.
    4. analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of juvenile justice management programs.
    5. assimilate advanced-level subject matter and apply it to their work environment.


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  • JS 664 - Child Abuse and Neglect Institute: the Role of the Judge

    (2 units)
    Judicial philosophy and skills necessary for handling child abuse and neglect cases; comprehensive approach to improving court practice; judicial decision making under the Adoption and Safe Families Act.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. articulate how the Adoption & Safe Families Act (ASFA) and post-ASFA federal legislation has shaped the current responsibilities of judges in child abuse and neglect cases.
    2. define reasonable efforts and discuss the court’s responsibility concerning reasonable efforts.
    3. identify the benefits of having children of all ages attend court hearings related to their dependency cases and the special responsibilities judges have concerning older youth.
    4. apply the Judicial Canons of Ethics to specific activities and communications, including social media, in order to determine whether they would constitute a violation.
    5. articulate the history, main requirements, and importance of the Indian Child Welfare Act and explain what judges in child abuse and neglect cases must do in order to comply with the Act.
    6. describe the impact of stress, neglect, and trauma on child neurodevelopment and attachment relationships and utilize strategies to identify children who need or could benefit from trauma-informed services.
    7. explain how implicit bias can negatively influence court outcomes for children and families and identify ways to recognize and minimize bias in decision-making.
    8. define and explain the importance of permanency for children, apply best practices in conducting permanency hearings, and identify resources and strategies to enhance permanency practice.
    9. discuss the relationship between trauma and co-occurring disorders, primarily substance abuse, and articulate how to address substance abuse disorders in the family while implementing ASFA.
    10. recognize the different types of physical trauma and bodily injury that can occur in cases of domestic violence and physical abuse.


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  • JS 690 - Topics in Comparative Jurisprudence

    (2 units)
    Historical and current perspectives on various aspects of the legal system including the legal profession, the court system, criminology, social services, and academic research. A) England. B) Scotland.

    Grading Basis: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
    Units of Lecture: 2
    Offered: Every Fall and Spring

    Student Learning Outcomes
    Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
    1. describe and utilize different methods of comparative legal analysis.
    2. compare constitutional, juvenile, and family laws from other international jurisdictions with domestic law.
    3. critically evaluate the leading philosophical systems of law and articulate the geographical spread of the leading schools of law across the globe.
    4. recognize the impact of societal values on legal systems and analyze the virtues and imperfections of concepts employed by a variety of legal systems in formulating legal rules and principles.
    5. discuss the importance of comparative law in the context of increasing globalization and internationalism.
    6. explain the history and components of the [country] legal system and juxtapose against the legal system in the United States.
    7. compare and contrast the social and cultural basis upon which law operates in [country] and the United States.


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