Death Penalty, Wrongful Convictions and Criminal Justice Through the Lens of Film

<p>Online Course. This course examines constitutional principles of due process and fair trial, and how bias influences the criminal justice system, focusing on wrongful convictions and the death penalty. Ethical considerations are a key component of the course. Iconic films demonstrate the issues presented. Topics include the efficacy of the death penalty, the causes of wrongful convictions, actual innocence, gender/race/economic bias and its effect on the justice system, and best practices for improving our sense of justice in the United States. This course explores the varying roles of the court, the prosecution and the defense in criminal cases, including analysis of ineffective assistance of counsel claims. Students develop an understanding of conflicting views on the legitimacy of the death penalty and the systemic problems with instituting capital punishment, as well as best practices to prevent wrongful convictions.<em>&#160;</em>Enrollment limited to 20 students.&#160;<em>For college students and beyond.&#160;</em>1 Credit. Session B: July 1 – August 2. Tuition: $5070. Technology Fee: $85.</p>