Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice
YEAR 1 - CRIMINAL JUSTICE I
- Course Title: Principles of Criminal Justice
- Course Instructor: Marta Bell
- Number of Credits: 3 credits
- Semesters Offered: 2 semesters
- Prerequisites: Algebra I & English 10
- Eligible Grade Levels: 10th, 11th
- Dual Credits: Vincennes University
YEAR 2 - CRIMINAL JUSTICE II
- Course Title: Criminal Justice Capstone
- Course Instructor: Marta Bell
- Number of Credits: 3 credits
- Semesters Offered: 2 semesters
- Prerequisites: Successful completion Criminal Justice I
- Eligible Grade Levels: 11th, 12th
- Dual Credits: Vincennes University
Content Standards and Competencies
- Demonstrate knowledge of criminal law, constitutional rights, and the U.S. legal system.
- Apply criminal justice procedures related to policing, courts, and corrections.
- Exhibit skills in investigation, evidence collection, and crime scene management.
- Demonstrate proper use of safety practices, defensive tactics, and emergency response procedures.
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving in law enforcement and community scenarios.
- Interpret and use criminal codes, reports, and case documentation.
- Demonstrate effective communication and interviewing skills in criminal justice setting.
- Apply ethical standards and professional conduct in decision-making and practice.
- Recognize cultural diversity and demonstrate respect in community and workplace interactions.
- Utilize technology and digital tools relevant to criminal justice (e.g., databases, forensics, surveillance).
- Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and professionalism in classroom and simulated environments.
- Prepare for industry-recognized certification and career opportunities in law enforcement, legal services, and corrections.
Dual Credit Information
Dual credit opportunities are subject to change by postsecondary partners or by state agencies, including the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the Indiana Department of Education, and the Indiana Office of Career and Technical Education.
| Course Number | Course Name | Credit Amount | College/University | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LAWE -100 | Survey of Criminal Justice | 3 | Vincennes University | Year 1 |
| LAWE -101 | Basic Police Operations | 3 | Vincennes University | Year 1 |
| LAWE -145 | Ethics & Professionalism in Criminal Justice | 3 | Vincennes University | Year 2 |
| LAWE -150 | Criminal Minds Behavior | 3 | Vincennes University | Year 2 |
Academic Standards for Success
- Maintain regular attendance, punctuality, and active participation in class and lab activities.
- Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication using professional and legal terminology.
- Apply reading, research, and critical thinking skills to analyze laws, policies, and case studies.
- Use math, logic, and analytical skills in criminal justice scenarios (e.g., crime data, statistics).
- Follow complex, multistep procedures with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Interpret and apply information from legal documents, technical manuals, and criminal codes.
- Exhibit responsibility, professionalism, and respect in classroom and field environments.
- Work effectively in teams, demonstrating leadership, collaboration, and conflict resolution skills.
- Practice ethical decision-making and integrity in all academic and workplace activities.
Pike CTE Program Approval Rubric
View the Program Approval Rubric here.
NOTE: Required prerequisites include the successful completion of *Algebra I & *English 10 for academic credit.
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Criminal Justice Pathway
The Criminal Justice pathway at the Pike Career and STEM Center introduces students to the purposes, functions, and history of the three primary parts of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Students explore how these systems work together and how they apply in today’s society. The program emphasizes the interrelationships and responsibilities of each area while developing strong oral and written communication skills essential to criminal justice professions.
This pathway provides hands-on learning through engaging activities such as mock crime scene investigations, evidence collection, and lab-based exercises that reinforce classroom concepts. Students study criminal behavior at both the micro and macro levels, applying specific theories to understand violent and non-violent crime. The course also introduces fundamental law enforcement operations and the organization of agencies at the federal, state, and local levels.
Students have the opportunity to earn valuable credentials and college credit, including:
- Certified Indiana County Jail Officer
- Emergency Telecommunicator Certification (ETC – 911 Dispatch)
- Vincennes University Project EXCEL (Dual Credit)
They can also earn college credits through courses such as LAWE 100, LAWE 101, LAWE 145, and LAWE 150, each worth three credit hours. These opportunities give students a strong academic and professional advantage.
Graduates of the Criminal Justice pathway are prepared for careers in law enforcement, corrections, emergency dispatch, criminal investigations, legal studies, and public safety. This program combines academic rigor, real-world experience, and industry-aligned credentials to prepare students for both immediate employment and continued education in the criminal justice field.