Private Investigation (CRJU 153)

Introduces students to the field of private investigation and its relationship to the criminal justice system. Emphasis is placed on local and national licensing regulations, scope of operations, legal considerations, civil law, and professional ethics. This is a writing-focused course, which means writing will be used as a tool to enhance the student's learning, composition, and research skills. The career in private investigations requires documenting each investigative step on a variety of reports, such as, activity reports, surveillance reports, contracts, research, letters, freedom of information requests, marketing materials, notes, and investigative plans. In the field, any documentation produced is shared with clients, government agencies and the judicial system. Developing one's writing skills will improve communication, court testimony and professional standards. Course offered once a year (fall or spring).