Faculty Syllabus

CRIJ-1301 Introduction to Criminal Justice

Felecia Williams


Credit Spring 2026

Section(s)

CRIJ-1301-002 (33685)
LEC Tu 8:00am - 5:00pm APD

Course Requirements

MASTER SYLLABUS

SECTION SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Introduction to Criminal Justice, CRIJ-1301 (section number and synonym) Include campus, room, and time of day

INSTRUCTOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Criminal justice instructors will provide an additional ‘First Day Handout’ with specific course

information to include but not limited to:

  • Instructor’s name
  • Phone number(s) (instructor’s office phone or Voice Box for adjunct instructors)
  • Office hours and location of office or means of accessing virtual office hours
  • Information on how conferences outside of office hours can be arranged
  • ACC e-mail address
  • Other avenues for contacting the professor, as appropriate (through Blackboard, e.g.)

COURSE DESCRIPTION

History and philosophy of criminal justice and ethical considerations; crime defined: its nature and impact; overview of criminal justice system; law enforcement; court system; prosecution and defense; trial process; corrections.

  • Credit Hours: 3
  • Classroom Contact Hours per week: 3
  • Laboratory Contact Hours per week: 0

 

Transferability of workforce courses varies. Students interested in transferring courses to another college should speak with their Area of Study (AoS) advisor, Department Chair, and/or Program Director.

 

COURSE RATIONALE

This course will cover information that will assist criminal justice students in continuation of higher education goals and employment in the criminal justice system.

PREREQUISITE

No prerequisite required.

 

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES & GENERAL EDUCATION COMPETENCIES

Department skills for this course are reading, writing, mathematics, thinking skills, personal qualities, workplace competencies and basic use of computers. Students will demonstrate their mastery of these skills using class discussions, written assignments, demonstrations, and test taking.

 

REQUIRED TEXTS/MATERIALS/SOFTWARE

Latest edition of:

  • ‘Introduction to Criminal Justice’ by Bohm, McGraw Hill Publishing
  • First Day Access students do not need a textbook. Please refer to the instructor’s

orientation for more information.

INSTRUCTIONAL METHODOLOGY

This statement identifies the format in which instruction may occur:

 

  • lecture
  • lecture/lab
  • laboratory
  • practicum
  • online
  • hybrid
  • competency-based

DISTANCE EDUCATION (for online or hybrid courses only)

Students will use the Blackboard learning management system for assignment instructions, submitting assignments, and collaboration.

 

Please review the ACC Distance Education General Information available at https://www.austincc.edu/academic-and-career-programs/acconline/frequently-asked- questions

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT

Austin Community College provides free, secure drive-up WiFi to students and employees in the parking lots of all campus locations. WiFi can be accessed seven days a week, 7 am to 11

pm. Additional details are available at https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/drive-up-wifi

Students who do not have the necessary technology to complete their ACC courses can request to borrow devices from Student Technology Services. Available devices include iPads, webcams, headsets, calculators, etc. Students must be registered for a credit course, Adult Education, or Continuing Education course to be eligible. For more information, including how to request a device, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

 

Student Technology Services offers phone, live-chat, and email-based technical support for students and can provide support on topics such as password resets, accessing or using Blackboard, access to technology, etc. To view hours of operation and ways to request support, visit http://www.austincc.edu/sts.

GRADING SYSTEM

See Instructors ‘First Day Handout’.

 

OUTLINE OF MAIN POINTS

  1. History and Philosophy of Criminal Justice and Ethical Considerations
    1. Police
      1. Primitive background
      2. Early English developments
      3. Peel's Principles
      4. Evolvement in U.S.
    2. Courts
      1. Primitive background
      2. Anglo-Saxon background
      3. American court system and development
    3. Corrections
      1. Primitive background
      2. Evolvement of philosophy in USA
      3. State penal institutions
      4. Federal prison systems
  2. Crime Defined: Its Nature and Impact
    1. Crime Defined
    2. Sources of Crimes
      1. Constitution
      2. Treaties
      3. Common law
      4. Statutes
      5. Judicial ruling
      6. Administrative regulations
    3. Civil Actions
    4. Amount and Trends in Crime
    5. General Comments
      1. Victims of crime
      2. Violent crime
      3. Property crime
      4. Organized crime
      5. Drug abuse
      6. Crimes with no "victim"

 

  1. Overview of Criminal Justice System
    1. Criminal Justice as a System
    2. Scope of Description
    3. Size of System
    4. Procedural Constraints
  2. Law Enforcement

 

    1. Police Role
      1. Problems and response
      2. External controls
      3. Internal controls
    2. Typical Structure
      1. Examples
      2. Innovations
    3. Function
      1. Patrol
      2. Investigation
      3. Public services
      4. Traffic
      5. Juvenile offenders
    4. Police and Community
    5. Goals of Police Organization
      1. Multi purposed
      2. Prevention preferable to repression
      3. Power required
      4. Public support and cooperation required
  2. Court System
    1. Hierarchy of Courts Jurisdiction
      1. Federal
      2. State
      3. Local
    2. The Judge
      1. Role
      2. Power
    3. Grand Jury
    4. Court Scheduling, Management, Organization
    5. Court Problems
      1. Delays
      2. Plea bargaining
      3. Equality of justice
  3. Prosecution and Defense
    1. Prosecution
      1. Jurisdiction level
      2. Authority and power
      3. Prosecutor's duties
    2. Defense Attorney
      1. Right to defense attorney
      2. Importance of defense attorney
      3. History of defense case law

 

      1. Public defender system
  2. Trial Process
    1. Pre-trial Proceeding
      1. Methods of release
      2. Warrant application
      3. Hearings and examinations
      4. Arraignment
    2. Jury
    3. Trial Proceedings
      1. Opening statements
      2. Prosecution case
      3. Defense case
      4. Final arguments
      5. Verdict
    4. Sentence
    5. Appeal
  3. Corrections
    1. Philosophy of Corrections
      1. Changes in attitudes
      2. Question of deterrence
      3. Retribution vs. rehabilitation
      4. Incapacitation
      5. Capital punishment
      6. Rights of convicted offenders
    2. The Corrections Institution
      1. General milieu
      2. Custody and discipline
      3. Types of programs
      4. Effectiveness
      5. Length of detention
      6. Roles of correctional personnel
    3. Function of Probation and Parole
    4. Trends in Corrections
      1. Increased use of probation and parole
      2. Increased use of community-based programs
      3. Improved counseling
      4. Better vocational training
      5. Work release
      6. Family visitation
      7. Judicial intervention

 

BASIC PEACE OFFICER COURSE OBJECTIVES INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Chapter 1.       Professionalism and Ethics

    1. Discuss the concept of professionalism.
    2. Discuss the characteristics of professionalism.
    1. Discuss the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.
    2. Discuss ethical dilemmas in law enforcement.
    3. Discuss the differences between physical and moral courage.
    4. Discuss Title 8 of the Texas Penal Code in relationship to an officer’s behavior.
    5. Explain relevant federal criminal law in relationship to an officer’s behavior.
    6. List civil penalties for sexual harassment and inappropriate officer conduct.

Chapter 2.       Professional Policing

    1. Describe significant historical events that have influenced policing in the United States.
    2. Describe the historical development of police service models or styles.
    3. Describe the evolution of policing in Texas.
    4. List the requirements of licensees under selected sections of the current Commission Rules.
    5. Explain the traditional police service model.
    6. Define “community policing” and explain this service model.
    1. Interpret the police organization’s role in society.
    2. Recognize the values of providing quality police customer service.
    3. Analyze the characteristics of traditional (formal) police organizational structure and police subculture (informal).
    4. Discuss the concept of Crime Stoppers and the function of the organization.

Chapter 3.       Fitness, Wellness, and Stress Management

    1. Describe the importance and relevance of health habits, fitness and wellness to the law enforcement profession.
    2. Identify the guidelines and principles of a safe exercise program.
    3. Identify the principles of an exercise program.
    4. Identify FITT guidelines for thresholds of fitness training related to cardiovascular, strength, anaerobic and flexibility training.
    5. Identify the components of an exercise program.
    6. Identify safety measures for fitness training.
    1. Describe the relationship between nutrition and performance.
    2. Identify healthy nutritional strategies.
    3. Explore types of stress related to the law enforcement profession.
    4. Identify the emotional and physical symptoms of the stress response physiology of stress.
    5. Identify common stressors of peace officers.
    6. Recognize strategies to manage stress.

 

    1. Identify ways to reduce stress through relaxation.
    1. Discuss physical and psychological effects of Critical Incident Stress. Critical Incident Stress (CIS) Definition.
    2. Explore ways to prepare and assist yourself or someone else cope with a critical incident with minimum of pain and scarring.
    3. Discuss Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
    4. Increase awareness of prevalence of suicide.
    5. Recognize common signs of suicidal thoughts and behavior.
    6. Identify strategies to assist a coworker contemplating suicide.
    7. Identify the extent of alcohol and drug abuse in the law enforcement work place.
    8. Explain myths and realities of alcoholism.
    9. Discuss signs and symptoms of drug / alcohol abuse and the personal consequences of personal use.
    10. Discuss responsibilities an officer has to a co-worker when substance abuse threatens the safety and efficiency of the department.
    11. Discuss consequences of steroid abuse.

Chapter 7.       US, Texas Constitution, and Rights

    1. Discuss the provisions of the US Constitution, Bill of Rights, the Texas Constitution, and the rights set out in Chapter I of the CCP.
    2. Outline the structure and role of the Criminal Justice System.
    3. Explain how the three components of the criminal justice system directly affect each other.
    4. Identify the differences between civil and criminal law.
    5. Identify the civil/criminal courts and their jurisdiction.
    6. Identify who are magistrates and their duties.

Chapter 35.     Patrol Skills/Traffic Stops                       

    1. Define the role of law enforcement in providing crime prevention services to the public.
    2. Identify methods to gain citizen involvement in crime prevention.
    3. List the elements of a crime prevention program.

Students will demonstrate these objectives have been mastered through the use of class discussions, written assignments, demonstrations and test taking. (The instructor may also list additional learning objectives in their ‘First Day Handout’.)

 

Enrollment Standards

All ACC Texas Peace Officer Certificate students and those who will enter commissioned police employment must meet the following requirements in conjunction with being responsible for all TCOLE requirements:

  1. Not be currently charged with any criminal offense for which conviction would bar licensing.

 

  1. Has never been on court-ordered community supervision or probation for any criminal offense above the grade of Class B misdemeanor or a Class B misdemeanor within the last ten years from the date of the court order.
  2. Has never been convicted of an offense above the grade of Class B misdemeanor or a Class B Misdemeanor within the last ten years.
  3. Has never been convicted of any family violence offense.
  4. Is not prohibited by state or federal law from operating a motor vehicle.
  5. Is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition.
  6. Is a United States citizen.
  7. All requirements as listed in the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) rules.

 

All students are responsible for knowing the TCOLE rules prior to entering the program and must provide accurate information regarding their status in relation to the TCOLE rules. Failure to understand and apply the rules is reason for dismissal from the ACC/CRJ program. You may view the complete rules on the TCOLE website: http://tcole.texas.gov/.

Upon successful completion of this criminal justice program, the student will:

 

    • define the functions and roles of all major components (police, courts and corrections) of the U.S. Criminal Justice System;
    • differentiate the institutions, law and concepts that compose the Criminal Justice System;
    • identify and apply ethical considerations that are intrinsic components of the Criminal Justice System;
    • differentiate, analyze and apply the constitutional constraints under which police, corrections and prosecutors must operate in a free society;
    • distinguish various career paths and positions available in the traditional criminal justice workforce; and
    • *integrate academic theory with practical applications of law enforcement (passing comprehensive examination for the Certificate program).

*Applies primarily in the Level I Certificate Program.

 

COURSE POLICIES

See Instructors ‘First Day Handout.’

Attendance/Class Participation

Regular and punctual class attendance is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.

 

For online courses: Regular and timely class participation in discussions and completion of work is expected of all students. If attendance or compliance with other course policies is unsatisfactory, the instructor may withdraw students from the class.

 

Situations where classes are cancelled because of weather, pandemic, or other emergencies: In the event the college or campus closes due to unforeseen circumstances (for example, severe weather or other emergency), the student is responsible for communicating with their professor during the closure and completing any assignments or other activities designated by their professor as a result of missed class sessions.

Withdrawal Policy

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that his or her name is removed from the rolls should they decide to withdraw from the class. The instructor does, however, reserve the right to drop a student should he or she feel it is necessary. If a student decides to withdraw, he or she should also verify that the withdrawal is recorded before the Final Withdrawal Date. You may withdraw from a class at any time before the withdrawal deadlines published in the academic calendar. The student is also strongly encouraged to keep any paperwork in case a problem arises.

 

Students are responsible for understanding the impact that withdrawal from a course may have on their financial aid, veterans’ benefits, and international student status. Per state law, students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2007 or later at any public Texas college or university may not withdraw (receive a W) from more than six courses during their undergraduate college education. Some exemptions for good cause could allow a student to withdraw from a course without having it count toward this limit. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor when making decisions about course selection, course loads, and course withdrawals.

 

NOTE: It should be understood it is the student’s responsibility and not the instructors to

drop a course. A student that discontinues coming to class and fails to drop a course is

subject to receiving a final, permanent grade of “F”.

 

See Instructors ‘First Day Handout’ for final withdrawal date.

 

Missed Exam and Late Work Policies

See Instructors ‘First Day Handout.’

Incompletes

An incomplete (grade of “I”) will only be given for extenuating circumstances. What constitutes “extenuating circumstances” is left to the instructor’s discretion. If a grade of I is given, the remaining course work must be completed by a date set by the student and professor. This date may not be later than two weeks prior to the end of the following semester. A grade of I also requires completion and submission of the Incomplete Grade form, to be signed by the faculty member (and student if possible) and submitted to the department chair.

Students may request an Incomplete from their faculty member if they believe circumstances warrant. The faculty member will determine whether the Incomplete is appropriate to award or not. The following processes must be followed when awarding a student an I grade.

 

  1. Prior to the end of the semester in which the “I” is to be awarded, the student must meet with the instructor to determine the assignments and exams that must be completed prior to the deadline date. This meeting can occur virtually or in

person. The instructor should complete the Report of Incomplete Grade form.

  1. The faculty member will complete the form, including all requirements to complete the course and the due date, sign (by typing in name) and then email it to the student. The student will then complete his/her section, sign (by typing in name), and return the completed form to the faculty member to complete the agreement. A copy of the fully completed form can then be emailed by the faculty member to the student and the department chair for each grade of Incomplete that the faculty member submits at the end of the semester.
  2. The student must complete all remaining work by the date specified on the form above. This date is determined by the instructor in collaboration with the student, but it may not be later than the final withdrawal deadline in the subsequent long semester.
  3. Students will retain access to the course Blackboard page through the subsequent semester in order to submit work and complete the course. Students will be able to log on to Blackboard and have access to the course section materials, assignments, and grades from the course and semester in which the Incomplete was awarded.
  4. When the student completes the required work by the Incomplete deadline, the instructor will submit an electronic Grade Change Form to change the student’s performance grade from an “I” to the earned grade of A, B, C, D, or F.

If an Incomplete is not resolved by the deadline, the grade automatically converts to an

“F.” Approval to carry an Incomplete for longer than the following semester or session deadline is not frequently granted.

 

COURSE OUTLINE/CALENDAR

Please note that schedule changes may occur during the semester. Any changes will be announced in class and posted as a Blackboard Announcement (or other resource faculty is using to communicate).

See Instructors ‘First Day Handout’.

 

COLLEGE POLICIES

Health & Safety Protocols

Operational areas of ACC campuses and centers are fully open and accessible through all public entrances. While some health & safety protocols are no longer mandatory, the college encourages its staff, faculty, and students to be mindful of the well-being of all individuals on campus. If you feel sick, feverish, or unwell, please do not come to campus.

 

Some important things to remember:

 

  • If you have not done so, ACC encourages all students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available throughout the community. Visit www.vaccines.gov/ to find a vaccine location near you.
  • If you are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms, please get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible before returning to an ACC facility. Testing is now widely available.
  • If you test positive, please report it on the ACC self-reporting tool located here.
  • ACC continues to welcome face masks on campus. Per CDC guidelines, face masks remain a good way to protect yourself from COVID-19. The college cannot mandate indoor masking, but is encouraging it during this spike in cases as a result of the Delta variant.
  • The college asks that we all continue to respect the personal space of others. We are encouraging 3 feet of social distancing.
  • Please be sure to carry your student, faculty, or staff ID badge at all times while on campus.

 

Because of the ever-changing situation, please go to ACC’s COVID-19 website at https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus?ref=audiencemenu for the latest updates and guidance.

 

Statement on Academic Integrity

Austin Community College values academic integrity in the educational process. Acts of academic dishonesty/misconduct undermine the learning process, present a disadvantage to students who earn credit honestly, and subvert the academic mission of the institution. The potential consequences of fraudulent credentials raise additional concerns for individuals and communities beyond campus who rely on institutions of higher learning to certify students' academic achievements and expect to benefit from the claimed knowledge and skills of their graduates. Students must follow all instructions given by faculty or designated college representatives when taking examinations, placement assessments, tests, quizzes, and evaluations. Actions constituting scholastic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, collusion, falsifying documents, or the inappropriate use of the college’s information technology resources. Further information is available at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/academic-integrity-and-disciplinary-process

 

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Students at ACC have the same rights and protections under the Constitution of the United States. These rights include freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, petition and association. As members of the community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same rights to others and not interfere or disrupt the learning environment. Students are entitled to fair treatment, are expected to act consistently with the values of the college, and obey local, state and federal laws. www.austincc.edu/srr

 

As a student of Austin Community College, you are expected to abide by the Student Standards of Conduct. https://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and-responsibilities/student- standards-of-conduct

Senate Bill 212 and Title IX Reporting Requirements

Under Senate Bill 212 (SB 212), the faculty and all College employees are required to report any information concerning incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking committed by or against an ACC student or employee. Federal Title IX law and College policy also require reporting incidents of sex- and gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. This means faculty and non-clinical counseling staff cannot keep confidential information about any such incidents that you share with them.

 

If you would like to talk with someone confidentiality, please contact the District Clinical Counseling Team who can connect you with a clinical counselor on any ACC campus: (512) 223- 2616, or to schedule online: https://www.austincc.edu/students/mental-health-counseling.

While students are not required to report, they are encouraged to contact the Compliance Office for resources and options: Charlene Buckley, District Title IX Officer, (512) 223-7964; compliance@austincc.edu.

If a student makes a report to a faculty member, the faculty member will contact the District Title IX Officer for follow-up.

 

Student Complaints

A defined process applies to complaints about an instructor or other college employee. You are encouraged to discuss concerns and complaints with college personnel and should expect a timely and appropriate response. When possible, students should first address their concerns through informal conferences with those immediately involved; formal due process is available when informal resolution cannot be achieved.

Student complaints may include (but are not limited to) issues regarding classroom instruction, college services and offices on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability.

Further information about the complaints process, including the form used to submit complaints, is available at: http://www.austincc.edu/students/students-rights-and- responsibilities/student-complaint-procedures

 

Statement on Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects confidentiality of students’ educational records. Grades cannot be provided by faculty over the phone, by email, or to a fellow student.

 

Grades should be posted on Blackboard for the course.

 

Recording Policy

To ensure compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), student recording of class lectures or other activities is generally prohibited without the explicit written permission of the instructor and notification of other students enrolled in the class

section. Exceptions are made for approved accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Recording of lectures and other class activities may be made by faculty to facilitate instruction, especially for classes taught remotely through Blackboard Collaborate or another

platform. Participation in such activities implies consent for the student to be recorded during the instructional activity. Such recordings are intended for educational and academic purposes only.

Safety Statement

Health and safety are of paramount importance in classrooms, laboratories, and field activities. Students are expected to learn and comply with ACC environmental, health and safety procedures and agree to follow ACC safety policies. Emergency Procedures posters and Campus Safety Plans are posted in each classroom and should be reviewed at the beginning of each semester. All incidents (injuries/illness/fire/property damage/near miss) should be immediately reported to the course instructor. Additional information about safety procedures and how to sign up to be notified in case of an emergency can be found at: http://www.austincc.edu/emergency

Everyone is expected to conduct themselves professionally with respect and courtesy to all. Anyone who thoughtlessly or intentionally jeopardizes the health or safety of another individual may be immediately dismissed from the day’s activity and will be referred to the Dean of Student Services for disciplinary action.

In the event of disruption of normal classroom activities due to an emergency situation or a continuing illness outbreak, the format for this course may be modified to enable completion of the course. In that event, students will be provided an addendum to the class syllabus that will supersede the original version.

Campus Carry

The Austin Community College District concealed handgun policy ensures compliance with Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code (also known as the Campus Carry Law), while maintaining ACC’s commitment to provide a safe environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Beginning August 1, 2017, individuals who are licensed to carry (LTC) may do so on campus premises except in locations and at activities prohibited by state or federal law, or the college’s concealed handgun policy.

 

It is always the responsibility of license holders to conceal their handguns. Persons who see a handgun on campus are asked to contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 222 from a campus phone or 512-223-7999. Please refer to the concealed handgun policy online at https://www.austincc.edu/about-acc/campus-carry

 

Discrimination Prohibited

The College seeks to maintain an educational environment free from any form of discrimination or harassment including but not limited to discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

Faculty at the College are required to report concerns regarding sexual misconduct (including all forms of sexual harassment and sex and gender-based discrimination) to the Manager of Title IX/Title VI/ADA Compliance. Licensed clinical counselors are available across the District and serve as confidential resources for students.

 

Additional information about Title VI, Title IX, and ADA compliance can be found in the ACC Compliance Resource Guide available at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1o55xINAWNvTYgI-fs- JbDyuaMFDNvAjz/view

Use of ACC email

All College e-mail communication to students will be sent solely to the student’s ACCmail account, with the expectation that such communications will be read in a timely fashion. ACC will send important information and will notify students of any college- related emergencies using this account. Students should only expect to receive email communication from their instructor using this account. Likewise, students should use their ACCmail account when communicating with instructors and staff. Information about ACC email accounts, including instructions for accessing it, are available at: http://www.austincc.edu/help/accmail/questions- and-answers

 

Use of the Testing Center

For Fall, 2021, the Testing Centers will allow only limited in person testing and testing time will be limited to the standard class time, typically one and one-half hours. Specifically, only the following will be allowed in the Testing Centers:

 

  • Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Testing: All approved SAS testing
  • Assessment Tests: Institutionally approved assessment tests (e.g., TSIA or TABE)
  • Placement Tests: Placement tests (e.g., ALEKS)
  • Make-Up Exams (for students who missed the original test): Make-up testing is available for all lecture courses but will be limited to no more than 25% of students enrolled in each section for each of four tests
  • Programs incorporating industry certification exams: Such programs (e.g., Microsoft, Adobe, etc.) may utilize the ACC Business Assessment Center for the industry certification exams (BACT) at HLC or RRC

 

See Instructors ‘First Day Handout’.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The success of our students is paramount, and ACC offers a variety of support services to help, as well as providing numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal growth.

 

Student Support

ACC strives to provide exemplary support to its students and offers a broad variety of opportunities and services. Information on these campus services and resources is available at https://www.austincc.edu/students. A comprehensive array of student support services is available online at: https://www.austincc.edu/coronavirus/remote-student-support

Student Accessibility Services

Austin Community College (ACC) is committed to providing a supportive, accessible, and inclusive learning environment for all students. Each campus offers support services for students with documented disabilities. Students with disabilities who need classroom, academic or other accommodations must request them through Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

 

Students are encouraged to request accommodations when they register for courses or at least three weeks before the start of each semester they are enrolled, otherwise the provision of accommodations may be delayed. Students who have received approval for accommodations from SAS for this course must provide the instructor with the legal document titled “Notice of Approved Accommodations (NAA)” from SAS.

 

Until the instructor receives the NAA from the student accommodations should not be provided. Once the NAA is received, accommodations must be provided. Accommodations are not retroactive, so it is in the student’s best interest to deliver the NAA on the first day of

class.

Please contact SAS@austincc.edu for more information.

 

Academic Support

ACC offers academic support services on all of its campuses. These services, which include and online tutoring, academic coaching, and supplemental instruction, are free to enrolled ACC students. Tutors are available in a variety of subjects ranging from accounting to pharmacology. Students may receive these services on both a drop-in and referral basis.

An online tutor request can be made here: https://de.austincc.edu/bbsupport/online-tutoring- request/

 

Additional tutoring information can be found here: https://www.austincc.edu/students/tutoring/online

Library Services

ACC Library Services will be offering both in-person and extensive online services for Fall 2021, with research and assignment assistance available in-person during limited hours of

service. Although all college services are subject to change this fall, plans include ACC students signing up for study space and use of computers at open libraries, extensive online instruction in classes, online reference assistance 24/7 and reference with ACC faculty librarians.

 

In addition, currently enrolled students, faculty and staff can access Library Services online (also 24/7) via the ACC Library website and by using their ACCeID to access all online materials (ebooks, articles from library databases, and streaming videos). ACC Libraries offer these services in numerous ways such as: "Get Help from a Faculty Librarian: the 24/7 Ask a Librarian chat service," an online form for in-depth research Q and A sessions, one-on-one video appointments, email, and phone (voicemail is monitored regularly).

 

Student Organizations

ACC has over seventy student organizations, offering a variety of cultural, academic, vocational, and social opportunities. They provide a chance to meet with other students who have the same interests, engage in service-learning, participate in intramural sports, gain valuable field experience related to career goals, and much else. Student Life coordinates many of these activities, and additional information is available at http://sites.austincc.edu/sl/.

Personal Support

Resources to support students are available at every campus. To learn more, ask your professor or visit the campus Support Center. All resources and services are free and confidential. Some examples include, among others:

  • Assistance with childcare or utility bills is available at any campus Support Center:

http://www.austincc.edu/students/support-center

 

Mental health counseling services are available throughout the ACC Student Services District to address personal and or mental health concerns: https://www.austincc.edu/students/mental- health-counseling

If you are struggling with a mental health or personal crisis, call one of the following numbers to connect with resources for help. However, if you are afraid that you might hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately.

 

Free Crisis Hotline Numbers:

 

  • Austin / Travis County 24-hour Crisis & Suicide hotline: 512-472-HELP (4357)
  • The Williamson County 24-hour Crisis hotline: 1-800-841-1255
  • Bastrop County Family Crisis Center hotline: 1-888-311-7755
  • Hays County 24-hour Crisis Hotline: 1-877-466-0660
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisis Text Line: Text “home” to 741741
    • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Readings

Course Textbook / Reading Information

Latest edition of:

  • Texas Basic Peace Officer's Course (TCOLE)

The supplemental reading materials (Black's Law Dictionary, Texas Traffic Code, Texas Penal Code, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, etc.) are available online at https://thelawdictionary.org/ and https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/.

Course Subjects

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  History and philosophy of criminal justice and ethical considerations; crime defined:  its nature and impact; overview of criminal justice system; law enforcement; court system; prosecution and defense; trial process; corrections.

BPOC COURSE SUBJECTS

Chapter 1 – Professionalism and Ethics

Chapter 2 – Professional Policing

Chapter 3 – Fitness, Wellness and Stress Management

Chapter 7 – U.S., Texas Constitution, and Rights

Chapter 35 – Patrol Skills/Traffic Stops

Student Learning Outcomes/Learning Objectives

BASIC PEACE OFFICER COURSE OBJECTIVES INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Chapter 1.       Professionalism and Ethics

    1. Discuss the concept of professionalism.
    2. Discuss the characteristics of professionalism.
    1. Discuss the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics.
    2. Discuss ethical dilemmas in law enforcement.
    3. Discuss the differences between physical and moral courage.
    4. Discuss Title 8 of the Texas Penal Code in relationship to an officer’s behavior.
    5. Explain relevant federal criminal law in relationship to an officer’s behavior.
    6. List civil penalties for sexual harassment and inappropriate officer conduct.

Chapter 2.       Professional Policing

    1. Describe significant historical events that have influenced policing in the United States.
    2. Describe the historical development of police service models or styles.
    3. Describe the evolution of policing in Texas.
    4. List the requirements of licensees under selected sections of the current Commission Rules.
    5. Explain the traditional police service model.
    6. Define “community policing” and explain this service model.
    1. Interpret the police organization’s role in society.
    2. Recognize the values of providing quality police customer service.
    3. Analyze the characteristics of traditional (formal) police organizational structure and police subculture (informal).
    4. Discuss the concept of Crime Stoppers and the function of the organization.

Chapter 3.       Fitness, Wellness, and Stress Management

    1. Describe the importance and relevance of health habits, fitness and wellness to the law enforcement profession.
    2. Identify the guidelines and principles of a safe exercise program.
    3. Identify the principles of an exercise program.
    4. Identify FITT guidelines for thresholds of fitness training related to cardiovascular, strength, anaerobic and flexibility training.
    5. Identify the components of an exercise program.
    6. Identify safety measures for fitness training.
    1. Describe the relationship between nutrition and performance.
    2. Identify healthy nutritional strategies.
    3. Explore types of stress related to the law enforcement profession.
    4. Identify the emotional and physical symptoms of the stress response physiology of stress.
    5. Identify common stressors of peace officers.
    6. Recognize strategies to manage stress.

 

    1. Identify ways to reduce stress through relaxation.
    1. Discuss physical and psychological effects of Critical Incident Stress. Critical Incident Stress (CIS) Definition.
    2. Explore ways to prepare and assist yourself or someone else cope with a critical incident with minimum of pain and scarring.
    3. Discuss Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
    4. Increase awareness of prevalence of suicide.
    5. Recognize common signs of suicidal thoughts and behavior.
    6. Identify strategies to assist a coworker contemplating suicide.
    7. Identify the extent of alcohol and drug abuse in the law enforcement work place.
    8. Explain myths and realities of alcoholism.
    9. Discuss signs and symptoms of drug / alcohol abuse and the personal consequences of personal use.
    10. Discuss responsibilities an officer has to a co-worker when substance abuse threatens the safety and efficiency of the department.
    11. Discuss consequences of steroid abuse.

Chapter 7.       US, Texas Constitution, and Rights

    1. Discuss the provisions of the US Constitution, Bill of Rights, the Texas Constitution, and the rights set out in Chapter I of the CCP.
    2. Outline the structure and role of the Criminal Justice System.
    3. Explain how the three components of the criminal justice system directly affect each other.
    4. Identify the differences between civil and criminal law.
    5. Identify the civil/criminal courts and their jurisdiction.
    6. Identify who are magistrates and their duties.

Chapter 35.     Patrol Skills/Traffic Stops                       

    1. Define the role of law enforcement in providing crime prevention services to the public.
    2. Identify methods to gain citizen involvement in crime prevention.
    3. List the elements of a crime prevention program.

Office Hours

W 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM ACC RRC, 4400 College Park Drive, Bldg. 3000, 3rd flr., Adjunct Faculty Suite, Room 3341, Round Rock, TX 78665.

NOTE Mutually agreed virtual meetings are available by appointment. Coordinate via email, fwilliam@austincc.edu

Office Hours

W 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM ACC RRC, 4400 College Park Drive, Bldg. 3000, 3rd flr., Adjunct Faculty Suite, Room 3341, Round Rock, TX 78665.

NOTE Mutually agreed virtual meetings are available by appointment. Coordinate via email, fwilliam@austincc.edu

Published: 01/20/2026 06:59:32