Login Create Account

Back to Course Catalog

CSS354Social Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Special Categories Of Offenders

This course explores special categories of offenders within the framework of criminology and security studies. It delves into the legal and sociological definitions of crime, examining various types of offenses and punishments. The course analyzes offender typologies, sentencing structures, and the critical role of the police in Nigeria's criminal justice system. Case studies from Nigeria, Africa, Europe, and America provide a comprehensive understanding of crime and offender management.

Generate AI Study Notes

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

156h

Study Time

13

Weeks

12h

Per Week

none

Math Level

Course Keywords

offenderscrimepunishmentsentencingpolice

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level

Builds on foundational knowledge

65%

intermediate

📚

Math Level

No Math

📖

Learning Type

Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Legal definition of crime

2

Sociological definition of crime

3

Types of offenses

4

Theories of punishment

5

Sentencing structures

6

Role of police in criminal justice

Total Topics6 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Police Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Correctional Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Probation Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Criminologist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Security Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Law EnforcementCorrectionsJudicial SystemSecurity ServicesGovernment Agencies

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week

1

Module 1: Definition of Crime from the Legal and Sociological Perspective

4h

Unit 1: Definition of Crime

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Study the various sources of statistical information about crime.
•Understand Braithwaite's 13 facts about crime.
•Explain the meaning of crime from different perspectives.
•Define who a criminal is from a legal point of view.

Unit 2: Legal Definition of Crime

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Understand Tappan's legal definition of crime.
•Explain the problems associated with the legal definition of crime.
•Identify and explain the seven elements of crime.
•Discuss the importance of each element.

Week

2

Module 1: Definition of Crime from the Legal and Sociological Perspective

2h

Unit 3: Sociological Definition of Crime

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain the sociological definition of crime.
•Discuss Durkheim's view of crime as a social product.
•Identify the merits and demerits of the sociological approach to crime.
•Understand the broader context in which crime occurs.

Week

3

Module 2: Theoretical Background to Crime and the Types of Crime

2h

Unit 1: Types of Crime 1

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Define offence according to the American Heritage Dictionary.
•Explain the types of offences.
•Explain the characteristics of offenders.
•Understand the difference between someone convicted of a single crime and someone with a pattern of criminal behavior.

Week

4

Module 2: Theoretical Background to Crime and the Types of Crime

2h

Unit 2: Types of Crime 2

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain the concept of crime from different angles.
•Discuss the causes of violent crime.
•Understand the role of personal traits, human instinct, and evolutionary factors in violent crime.
•Analyze the link between substance abuse and violent behavior.

Week

5

Module 2: Theoretical Background to Crime and the Types of Crime

2h

Unit 3: Theoretical Background to Crime

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Understand the non-sociological theories of crime.
•Examine the various types of sociological theories of crime.
•Discuss the Strain or Motivational theory.
•Explain the Control or Bond theory.

Week

6

Module 3: Definition and Types of Offences

4h

Unit 1: Types of Offences 1

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Discuss corruption and its different types.
•Explain computer crime and its various forms.
•Explain the word false pretense and its legal implications.
•Understand the causes of corruption in Nigeria.

Unit 2: Types of Offences 1

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Understand what Kidnapping is.
•Explain the types of Kidnapping.
•Differentiate Assault and battery.
•Discuss the types of Battery.
•Explain the word Robbery and its types.

Week

7

Module 3: Definition and Types of Offences

3h

Unit 3: Types of Offences 2

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Define the term Burglary.
•Explain the term Homicide.
•Discuss the term Rape.
•Explain the term Arson.
•Explain the term Treason.

Week

8

Module 3: Definition and Types of Offences

3h

Unit 4: Types of Offences 3

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain what is meant by terrorism.
•Discuss briefly the history of terrorism and the different forms of terrorism.
•Explain the motive behind terrorists acts.
•Differentiate between a terrorist and a guerilla.

Week

9

Module 4: Theoretical Background to Punishment

3h

Unit 1: What is Punishment?

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain what is meant by punishment.
•Discuss the historical background of punishment.
•Explain the reasons for punishment.
•Understand the definition of punishments in different fields.

Week

10

Module 4: Theoretical Background to Punishment

3h

Unit 2: Types of Punishment

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•List out the penalties of punishment.
•Explain the component of some of the penalties of punishment.
•Understand the movement towards humane execution.
•Discuss the concept of asset forfeiture.

Week

11

Module 4: Theoretical Background to Punishment

3h

Unit 3: Theoretical Background to Punishment

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Discuss in defaults the theories of punishment.
•Explain the philosophical theories of punishment.
•Understand the utilitarian and retributive theories of punishment.
•Analyze Bentham's and Kant's views on punishment.

Week

12

Module 5: Offenders and Sentencing Structure

6h

Unit 1: Pre-sentencing

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain the background and purpose of presentence investigation report.
•Discuss how offenders are interviewed and information concerning them are collated.
•Know how this information are used in the final judgment of the offender.
•Understand the rules and procedures for writing and revising the report.

Unit 2: Purpose of Sentencing

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain the meaning of sentencing.
•List and explain the purpose of sentencing.
•Understand the concepts of deterrence, incapacitation, rehabilitation, and retribution.
•Analyze the different sentencing philosophies.

Week

13

Module 5: Offenders and Sentencing Structure

3h

Unit 3: Types of Sentencing Structure

3 study hours

•Read the unit introduction and objectives.
•Explain the general kinds of sentencing.
•Discuss the modalities for imposing sentences.
•Explain the sentencing structures.
•Understand the differences between indeterminate and determinate sentences.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create detailed summaries of each unit, focusing on key definitions and concepts.

2

Develop case studies applying theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios.

3

Practice answering essay questions on the different types of offenses and their legal implications.

4

Review all tutor-marked assignments and incorporate feedback into your study notes.

5

Allocate specific time slots for focused study sessions, avoiding distractions.

6

Form study groups to discuss complex topics and share insights.

7

Prioritize understanding the Nigerian legal system and its application to criminal justice.

8

Use flashcards to memorize key terms and legal definitions.

9

Simulate exam conditions by practicing with past papers.

10

Focus on understanding the roles and responsibilities of different actors in the criminal justice system (police, courts, prisons).

11

Create concept maps linking different theories of crime and punishment.

12

Pay special attention to the ethical considerations involved in criminal justice administration.

13

Review all recommended textbooks and supplementary readings.

Related Courses

Other courses in Social Sciences that complement your learning

Project Management, Monitoring And Evaluation

Macro-Economic Theory I

Peace Research Methods

View All Social Sciences Courses