The topic must connect to at least one aspect of the criminal justice system and have an associated literature to that subject.  Utilizing the course text and readings and other peer-reviewed academic journals and/or books you are required to produce a research paper on your chosen topic.  Remember to always think and write from a criminological perspective.
Available theoretical and empirical criminological scholarly research/literature must be used to support your argument. Remember to always think and write from a criminological perspective. Students are expected to search online databases (which will be discussed in class) for articles that relate to their topic. It is expected that 4-6 works from respected journals or edited volumes in the field will be used. Books from respected academic authors are also acceptable. Students should ask for help from the instructor early in the semester if they are unable to locate appropriate reference materials. Please do not, under any circumstances, “google” your paper. You must consult sociological journals and books for scholarly writing relevant to your topic.