Special Topics, Directed Reading & Non-CRIM Courses
In addition to the required coursework, the MS and PhD programs allow students to complete a variety of elective courses. For the MS, these must be CRIM courses. For the PhD, these can be CRIM courses or courses from departments across the university (with special approval).
Special Topics Courses
CRIM 595/795 (Special Topics) courses count as electives for the MS (595) and PhD programs (795). Students may repeat 595/795 as long as the topics are different. Students should review the course listing the catalog for the maximum times the course can be repeated for credit.
Directed Readings (CRIM 796)
Directed reading (CRIM 796) courses involve independent reading at doctoral level and count as electives for the PhD program. CRIM 796 directed reading courses allow doctoral students to study closely with a faculty member on a specific topic related to justice, law, or crime policy as agreed to by student and faculty member and approved by the Director of Graduate Programs.
CRIM 796 can be taken for a letter grade, or satisfactory/no credit. Students must successfully complete 12 graduate level CRIM credits before enrolling in a CRIM 796 course. Students must obtain the professor’s signature and submit the Directed Reading Request Form to the Director of Graduate Programs at least two weeks before the beginning of the semester to receive approval. Once approved, the Graduate Program Coordinator will create the CRIM 796 section and provide the course registration number (CRN) to the student so they can add the course via Patriot Web.
Non-CRIM Courses
The PhD in Criminology, Law and Society requires a minimum of 21 electives. Doctoral students may substitute 3-6 credits of non-CRIM courses with prior written approval of the Director of Graduate Programs. Students should meet with their faculty advisor or Director of Graduate Programs to discuss the course they intend to take. They will need to provide all relevant course information including a syllabus if available and other relevant information (e.g., course description, role in degree plan). Only in cases where there is a specific unmet need with clear degree benefit will a request be considered.
Students must submit the Non-CRIM Course Request Form to the Director of Graduate Programs at least two weeks before the beginning of the semester to receive approval. Students must complete the request process before enrolling in the course.
