Earn Graduate Credits and Take Your Teaching to the Next Level

This innovative approach to research describes best practices and data-driven solutions in criminal justice research including quantitative, qualitative, and program evaluation research. Students will be good consumers of research and will have the fundamental knowledge necessary to evaluate research studies, evaluate their value toward their field of interest, and evaluate their usefulness for making sound decisions in the field.

Applying strategic decision making strategies, students will analyze the structures, practices, and performance of organizations in the administration of justice, including courts, law enforcement, and corrections, both not-for-profit and for-profit. Applied perspectives in ethical leadership functions that respond to organizational problems and objectives through best-practices will also be addressed. Additional topics will include program planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Students will analyze complex and multi-systemic adult and juvenile systems of justice and social control mechanisms on both a micro and macro level. Attention will be given to innovative initiatives and best-practices from across the nation with a view toward positive social change. Technology for effective cross-system collaboration will also be addressed, as will the role of constitutional protections and constraints on arrest, prosecution, conviction, and incarceration.

Students will evaluate contemporary criminology theories and apply them to formulate prevention, treatment, and crime control models, within a framework of cultural diversity. Crime data relationships and patterns will also be integrated with biological, psychological, and sociological theories of criminal behavior in a critical evaluation of contemporary criminological theories. Policy formation and implementation will also be addressed.

Students will learn how policing strategies are developed, tested, implemented and evaluated in a democratic society. Evidence-based practice will be explored against innovative policing tactics and the evolving policy and political dynamic at play. Students will learn how policy issues are framed, identify participants in the policy process, and discover how policy is created. Students will examine the usefulness and strategic implications of COMPSTAT, community policing, intelligence led policing, and transnational cybercrime.

This course covers various algorithm design paradigms, mathematical analysis of algorithms, empirical analysis of algorithms and NP-completeness.

This course focuses on the fundamental design considerations in designing a database. Specific topics include performance analysis of design alternatives, system configuration and the administration of a popular database system. The course also offers an in-depth analysis of the algorithms and machine organizations of database systems. Note, this course has proctored exam(s). This exams requires additional technology, if student uses online proctoring.

This course surveys current practices in software development and software design, especially in the area of object-oriented design. The course will examine and contrast current and leading edge methodologies and practices, including agile, extreme programming, test-driven design, patterns, aspect-oriented programming, model-driven architecture, Unified Modeling Language, and integrated development environments.

This course covers topics in software systems engineering. Its scope is the design of the overall architecture for software systems with emphasis on distributed architectures. The issues in an architecture centered software development cycle and project management are addressed.

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of distributed systems, encompassing both fundamental concepts and practical skills for building modern distributed applications. The course will explore the architecture, design goals, and challenges of distributed systems, covering core principles like processes, transparency, communication, consistency, fault tolerance, and security. Throughout the course, students will gain hands-on experience through labs and a team project, where they will design, develop, containerize and deploy a microservice-based cloud native application using industry-standard tools and technologies. Through this course, students will gain in-depth understanding of core concepts of distributed computing, including study of both abstract concepts and practical techniques for building modern distributed applications.

This course focuses on the issues of delivering high quality software, especially in large complex systems. Topics covered include testing strategies (black box, white box, regression, etc.), unit testing, system integration, system verification and support tools. It also will reinforce the need for requirements that are testable and traceable from the early design stages. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

This course introduces students to the principal theoretical schools for interpreting literature, considering these in light of popular literature pedagogies. Students will review these schools considering the ways in which different theoretical frameworks allow for different readings of literary texts. Students will develop their own original arguments about literary texts, and they will do so in dialogue with existing scholarly debates and conversations. Among other genres, students will complete an extended research essay, a theory-informed unit proposal for a college classroom, and a statement of teaching philosophy.

This course focuses on the theories that inform the teaching of composition, focusing on how writing is learned and the various ways it can be taught. Students will engage with theories for assigning and assessing writing, for teaching students from various backgrounds, and for teaching writing with digital tools. The course emphasizes using theory and research to design courses, assignments, and activities.

This course explores a special topic in literary studies, including, but not limited to: identity, literary theory, and major authors and/or literary periods. Students will engage scholarly conversations related to the selected topic. Students will also complete close readings and an extended research essay.

This course reviews the rhetorical canon, paying special attention to its history and how an understanding of that tradition might be applied to the contemporary English classroom. Students will explore classical and contemporary rhetorical theory. Students will also complete an extended research project related to the rhetorical tradition and/or its application in the postsecondary teaching of English.

Students will develop and pursue an extended research project in English studies. Students may pursue projects related to composition studies, rhetorical theory, literature and literary theory, or any other subfield of English. The course will guide students through the process of completing an extended research project. Students will also consider the relevance their project has for the teaching of college English in traditional and dual-enrollment teaching contexts.

This course introduces students to fundamental algebraic, logical, and combinational concepts in mathematics that are needed in upper division computer science courses. Topics include integer representation; algorithms; modular arithmetic and exponentation; discrete logarithms; cryptography; recursion; primality testing; number theory; graphs and directed graphs; trees; and Boolean Algebra. Note, this course has proctored exam(s). This exams requires additional technology, if student uses online proctoring.

This course provides an introductory overview of methods, concepts, and current practices in the growing field of statistics and data analytics. Topics to be covered include data collection, data analysis and visualization as well as probability, statistical inference and regression methods for informed decision-making. Students will explore these topics with current statistical software. Some emphasis will also be given to ethical principles of data analytics.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of modern statistical analysis tools, focusing on the integration of modern analytics tools enhanced by artificial intelligence techniques. The goal is to equip students with advanced skills in using these contemporary analytics tools for statistical descriptive data analysis and effective problem-solving across various analytical contexts.

More than ever before, the ability to understand and be understood is critical for success in the corporate world. Communication is no longer limited by the narrow definitions of the past. Achieving a business leadership position today means not only being adept at both oral and written communication, but also understanding communication from a strategic point-of-view and knowing how to effectively organize and present information to audiences of all sizes. In this course, you will develop and refine these capabilities. What you gain from this course will be of value throughout your MBA program, as well as in the workplace.

This course surveys the fundamental concepts and methods of economic analysis for managers. Real-world decision making is emphasized. Application of key economic concepts such as market demand, market supply, market equilibrium, marginal analysis, production, costs, revenue, profit, and market structure constitute the core material of the course.

In today's business world, success can often be attributed more to the genius of a company's marketing efforts than to the genius of its products or services. A clear understanding of the importance of marketing, as well as a grasp of effective marketing practices, is essential for anyone who wishes to achieve a position of leadership. You will gain a working knowledge of both marketing theory and the practical application of innovative marketing strategies. You will come to understand how product, price, place, and promotion contribute to the marketing mix as you explore research-based insights into consumer behavior. As your final course assignment, you will prepare and present a marketing plan of your own.

This course examines the strategic role of Human Resources (HR) in driving organizational success through effective policies, practices, and human capital initiatives. Students will explore how HR contributes to enterprise-wide strategy, workforce planning, and talent management. Emphasis is placed on HR’s collaboration with all types of managers in areas such as hiring, training, and compensation. The course also addresses the evolving responsibilities of HR in a global workplace and the challenges of a changing workforce, equipping students with strategies to enhance organizational performance and productivity.

This course systematically explores the external environment in which businesses operate - legal and regulatory, macroeconomic, cultural, political, technological, and natural. Additionally, the course will examine the critical opportunities and threats that arise from an analysis of external business conditions. Students will apply scenario planning to a selected industry and synthesize trends in the external environment in the presence of risk and uncertainty.

Effective leadership in today's complex and highly regulated business environment demands more than a working knowledge of basic accounting practices. Managers must fully grasp sophisticated financial and managerial accounting concepts and be able to apply them with ease in handling day-to-day responsibilities. Managers must also be well versed in the intricacies of corporate governance and asset protection. In this course, students will develop a clear understanding of these critical functions and issues. Students will study the foundational aspects of financial accounting, including professional structure, the interrelationships of financial statements, and multiple forms of financial analysis. Additionally, the functional aspects of managerial accounting will be covered, including planning, decision making, and performance evaluation.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of advanced theories, methods, and academic research in social psychology. Students will examine the psychological influences of individuals, groups, and situations on contemporary societal problems. Topics will include, but are not limited to, 1) social cognition, 2) attitude structure and change, 3) social influence, 4) relationships, 5) group/team dynamics, 6) prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination, 7) social identity, and 8) health, stress, and coping. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the social processes that shape human behavior and interaction. Durable Skill Competencies: critical thinking, empathy, ethical decision making, collaboration and teamwork, problem-solving, self-awareness

This course offers an in-depth exploration of advanced theories, methods, and academic research that contribute to our understanding of cognition. The course emphasizes the application of cognitive principles to real-world scenarios. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, 1) cognitive processes, 2) cognitive neuroscience, 3) learning and knowledge representation, 4) social cognition, 5) cognitive development, 6) intelligence, and 7) memory. Students will gain an understanding of the intricacies of cognitive processes and explore the latest developments in the field. Durable Skill Competencies: analytical and systems thinking, evidence-based reasoning, adaptability, metacognition

This course offers an in-depth exploration of advanced theories, methods, and academic research that contribute to our understanding of human growth and development. Throughout this course students will explore the biological, cognitive, cultural, environmental, and social factors that affect human development throughout the lifespan. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, 1) the foundations of developmental science, 2) neuroscience, perceptual, cognitive and language development, and 3) personality and the social contexts of development. Students will gain an understanding of how individuals grow, change, and evolve across the stages of life. Durable Skill Competencies: critical evaluation, cultural awareness and contextual sensitivity, analytical and integrative thinking, ethical judgment, effective communication

This course explores the complex and nuanced aspects of psychopathology, with a focus on the understanding, assessment, and treatment of psychological disorders. Throughout this course students will examine advanced theories, methods, and academic research that contribute to our understanding of psychological disorders. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, 1) the foundations of psychopathology, 2) major clinical syndromes 3) personality disorders, and 4) contemporary criticisms of the diagnostic criteria. Students will gain an understanding of how psychological disorders can impact human functioning. Durable Skill Competencies: clinical reasoning, ethical decision-making, integrative and systems thinking, cultural sensitivity, problem-solving, professional communication

Emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical skills, this course explores the use of psychological measurement and assessment. Students will become acquainted with various psychological instruments including their selection, construction, and administration. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, 1) the tools of psychological measurement, 2) reliability and validity, 3) theories and applications of measurement techniques, and 4) ethical, cultural, and professional considerations. Throughout this course students will gain experience with the interpretation and delivery of assessment results, as well as the translation into psychological interventions. Durable Skill Competencies: analytical reasoning, evidence-based decision-making, ethical judgment, cultural awareness, problem-solving, attention to detail, professional communication

This course introduces students to individual and group theories of counseling and psychotherapy. Throughout this course students will learn to utilize foundational theoretical concepts, therapeutic techniques, and practical applications in order to achieve a successful therapeutic outcome for the clients. The course aims to develop critical thinking skills and enhance students’ ability to apply diverse therapeutic approaches in both individual and group clinical settings. Durable Skill Competencies: clinical reasoning, active listening, empathy, rapport-building, ethical decision-making, adaptability, critical thinking, cultural awareness, collaborative and group facilitation skills, professional self-awareness

This foundational course provides an introduction to the social, economic, political, and ethical context of public administration in the United States. Students examine how public sector values differentiate government from the private sector and develop skills for critically evaluating issues faced by public administrators.

This course explores ethical decision-making, public sector values, codes of ethics, and legal responsibilities that shape moral reasoning and judgment in public service. Students apply ethical frameworks and normative theories to analyze real-world ethical dilemmas faced by public administrators.

This course explores the processes through which public demands are communicated, converted into public policy, and implemented in the American democratic system. Emphasis is on policy analysis and policy formulation through both theoretical and applied lenses. Students will develop skills to critically assess policy issues and policy alternatives in order to craft informed policy recommendations.

Students learn to think strategically about leading organizations operating in a competitive political environment where collaboration is required to advance the organizational mission. The course focuses on using strategic and network management concepts and tools to improve organizational performance. The importance of strategically managing organizational communication is also examined. Finally, students develop skills for effectively communicating strategic planning methods, approaches, and decisions with colleagues, elected officials, the media, and the public.

Students learn to think and act as ethical leaders within a public service context. The course focuses on putting administrative decisions and organizational plans into action. Students learn to use leadership concepts and tools and interpersonal skills for working with individuals and groups to effectively execute administrative plans and make decisions. Students also develop knowledge and skills for communicating and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders; particularly elected officials, the media, interest groups, and the public.

This course covers the fundamentals of security in the enterprise environment. Included are coverage of risks and vulnerabilities, threat modeling, policy formation, controls and protection methods, encryption and authentication technologies, network security, cryptography, personnel and physical security issues, as well as ethical and legal issues. This foundational course serves as an introduction to many of the subsequent topics discussed in depth in later security courses. Note, this course has proctored exam(s). This exam requires additional technology, if student uses online proctoring.

Today, software is at the heart of the business processes of nearly every business from finance to manufacturing. Software pervades everyday life in expected places like phones and computers but also in places that you may not consider such as toasters, thermostats, automobiles, and even light bulbs. Security flaws in software can have impacts ranging from inconvenient to damaging and even catastrophic when it involves life-critical systems. How can software be designed and built to minimize the presence of flaws or mitigate their impacts' This course focuses on software development processes that identify, model, and mitigate threats to all kinds of software. Topics include threat modeling frameworks, attack trees, attack libraries, defensive tactics, secure software development lifecycle, web, cloud, and human factors.

When audits, technology, or compliance become the driver for security initiatives the resulting program is strategically fragmented, reactive, and rigid. Moreover, there are few, if any, assurances that the biggest threats are being addressed. On the other hand, risk assessment places values on assets, evaluates the current controls, and provides data to improve the protection in a controlled, proactive, and flexible manner. This course teaches an approach to security that combines operational security, risk assessment, test and review and mitigation such that value can be demonstrated. A project-based approach to risk assessment is followed including, project definition and preparation, data gathering, technical information, physical data gathering, analysis, mitigation, recommendations, and reporting. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

Networks connecting disparate devices, services, and users have been among the most ubiquitous technologies that have led to the spectacular economic and technical success of the Internet. Today, networks seem to disappear, only to receive attention when they fail or are breached by attackers. While firewalls and virtual private networks are mainstays of network security, a strategy built on these alone is insufficient. This course covers a more comprehensive and systematic approach to network security including monitoring, incident response, forensics, virtualization and cloud, secure protocols, cryptography, and web services

When most people think of information security the images that come to mind are those of hackers: secretive people who, for political or profit motives, illegally break into computer systems to steal data or cause mayhem. While that kind of criminal element does exist, ethical hackers provide a needed service to organizations seeking to test and refine their security plans and technologies. This course takes an in-depth approach to ethical hacking including reconnaissance, scanning, vulnerability analysis, exploitation, and reporting. Students will employ current tools and methods in a hands-on approach that also prepares them for the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).