# BCJ 360 Criminal Law Online Course

## BCJ 360 Criminal Law

**3 Semester Units**

*Criminal Law* provides students with an overview of how common law has shaped American criminal law and the role of the U.S. Constitution on criminal law. This course examines how the law is applied to factual scenarios including judicial opinions from contemporary events. Students will acquire knowledge of the various elements of crime, parties involved in crimes, and criminal defenses. Also covered in this course are crimes against people and crimes against the public and state.

**Course Objectives**

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

- Define and discuss criminal law, the origins of criminal law, and the role that the U.S. Constitution plays in criminal law.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the various elements of crimes, the parties involved, legal aspects, and types of crimes.
- Evaluate the key aspects of criminal liability and discuss the categories of defenses.
- Examine the various types of crimes committed against the person, homicide, crimes against property, and the public.
- Discuss the aspects of commercial and cybercrime, crimes that involve public good, and crimes against the people.
- Demonstrate proficiency with academic writing related to criminal law.

### If you are interested in taking this course, please explore a degree or certificate program below:

[> Explore Criminal Justice Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/criminal-justice/) [> Explore General Studies Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/general-studies/)

## CCU Online Courses FAQ

##### 1. Can I take a single course?

No. At this time, students may only enroll in a [certificate](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) or [degree](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) program and cannot enroll into a single course. We urge you to [Explore All Programs](https://www.calcoast.edu/online-degree-programs/) to find a certificate or degree program best suited to your needs.

##### 2. How long is each course?

All of our programs are self-paced. This means you can complete your coursework as quickly or as slowly as your schedule permits as long as you complete one course every six months to remain an active student in good standing.

##### 3. How is the course structured?

This course is structured into four units and a final exam. Each unit has a required essay and an open book multiple-choice exam.

##### 4. Do I need a textbook for this course?

Yes. Every course in the educational programs offered at California Coast University requires an assigned textbook. To assist students in managing the high costs of textbooks, CCU offers a [rental library](https://www.calcoast.edu/alumni-association-rental-library.html) for all required texts.  
Students can also obtain textbooks in their local areas or through online sources if they do not wish to utilize the University's rental library. There are many resources on the web for renting, purchasing, and selling textbooks. If you would like to purchase your textbooks, or are interested in exploring other delivery methods (digital or pdf versions), we have compiled a handy [Textbook Resource Page](https://www.calcoast.edu/textbook-resources.html) for students who wish to explore other options.

##### 5. Is this an accredited college course?

Yes. California Coast University is accredited by the [Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)](http://www.deac.org/). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency.

##### 6. What should I do if I want more information about this course?

Please [contact us](https://www.calcoast.edu/contact-us.html). You can also download a [CCU Brochure](https://www.calcoast.edu/ccu-bulletin.html) or complete a [Request For Information Form Online](https://www.calcoast.edu/request-for-information-landing.html).