An introduction to research methods and statistics, with a strong emphasis on research utilization by criminal justice practitioners. In-depth study of the strengths, limitations and proper applications of the social science research methodologies, the nature of statistical data and the body of research literature in criminal justice. Objectives of the course are to (a) familiarize students with the available research literature, (b) develop a fundamental understanding of the strengths, weaknesses and proper application of the different research methodologies, (c) develop a fundamental understanding of statistical data analysis and (d) teach students to use the body of criminal justice and criminological research to solve problems within the field.