Policing, Power, and Public Safety in the United States

Undergraduate / Graduate

This course critically examines policing in the United States. Students will explore the historical foundations of policing, its legal and institutional frameworks, and its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. Moving beyond critique, the course emphasizes evaluating real-world reform efforts being implemented across the country. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to assess and design approaches to public safety that align with social work values.