CRIM2030
10 units
2000 level
Course handbook
Description
This course introduces students (or graduates) without a legal background to the key concepts and principles that underpin criminal laws in NSW. The course covers essential knowledge of state law for non-lawyers working in the criminal justice system. It provides an important legal foundation for other courses offered in the Criminology and Human Services majors, and Social Work, Psychological Science, and Communication Programs, through theoretical examination of the elements of major substantive criminal offences and defences, within the wider historical, social, and political context. Students will examine the way criminal responsibility: a) attaches to certain behaviours, b) is processed via the agencies of the State, and, finally, c) the disposition of offences by way of sentencing, bail, and parole.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Newcastle City Precinct
- Semester 2 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Define the nature of criminal law, and describe perspectives on the meaning of crime
2. Explain the sources of Criminal Law in NSW
3. Identify 'conduct' and 'mental' elements of crime
4. Explain how the court system functions, and examine arguments around the application of bail, sentencing, and parole
Content
Topics will include:
- Sources of Criminal Law
- Criminal Procedure
- Substantive Offences (selected)
- Defences to Criminal Liability (selected)
- Sentencing and Punishment
Assumed knowledge
Completion of first year studies in Social Science, Criminology, Human Services, Social Work, Psychological Science, or Communication programs.
Assessment items
Quiz: Quiz
Project: Criminal Court Research Paper
Written Assignment: Time Restricted Problem Questions (one week)
Contact hours
Semester 2 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
- Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 11 week(s) starting in week 2
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.