This course is designed to provide you with an in-depth examination of drug use in American society. The course aims to develop a sociological, pharmacological and historical understanding of drug use. It explores a variety of theories and theoretical orientations that seek to explain both why people use drugs and how society responds to drug use in the population. Emphasis is placed on understanding the historical foundations and philosophical underpinnings of drug prohibition in America. The connection between drugs and crime is examined by focusing on the way drug use and drug policies affect criminal behavior and the criminal justice system. Likewise, it is important for the criminal justice professional to understand the laws pertaining to drug possession and drug sale at the state and federal levels. This includes criminal court, drug court and diversion programs. This course provides criminal justice professionals with a comprehensive background on drugs and their abuses, effects on crime rates, laws and legislation and treatment alternatives. Prerequisites: PSYC 100 or equivalent ,and SOCI 100 or equivalent, and CJUS 100 or equivalent. Restrictions: BS Criminal Justice majors only (3:3,0)