Smarter Degree
Overview
Smarter Degree, an NCCRS member since July 2023, was founded in 2022 with the vision of offering practical pathways for underserved students to more easily access educational resources and pursue higher education. The entire organization aims to enable students to achieve the dignity of a respectable livelihood for themselves and their families and help them positively impact their community.
Smarter Degree endeavors to make it possible for adult learners in many walks of life from law enforcement officials to marginalized populations, to earn a bachelor’s degree in a number of disciplines. These disciplines generally offer our students real time knowledge applicable to their current employment and life needs. Students consult with the Smarter Degree team to cater to their custom education needs whether its business, legal, law enforcement, educators or those looking for a career change.
The goals of the coursework with Smarter Degree is to enable students to have the proper critical analysis and thinking skills to tackle current and new challenges that may arise both in their education and their current professional field. The Organizational team has combined decades in Education and Student Advisory and decided to launch this platform to assist in bringing their background knowledge of high-quality education to a broader audience of students nationally who are challenged with the need to balance work and family responsibilities together with their education.
Source of Official Student Records
Titles of all evaluated learning experiences
Course Categories
Descriptions and credit recommendations for all evaluated learning experiences
Criminal Justice - Smarter Degree
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: analyze the history and development of corrections; evaluate correctional philosophies and practices; evaluate the impact of corrections on individuals, families, and society; analyze the various types of correctional institutions; and evaluate current issues and challenges in the field of corrections.
This course provides an introduction to the field of corrections. Students explore the history and development of corrections, including the evolution of correctional philosophies and practices. The course examines the various types of correctional institutions, including jails, prisons, and community corrections programs. Other topics include the impact of corrections on individuals, families, and society, and explore current issues in the field, including the use of technology and evidence-based practices.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice or Public Justice (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: critically analyze and evaluate the theories of organizational management and leadership within the Criminal Justice system; synthesize and apply knowledge of leadership, job design, motivation, and communication in criminal justice organizations to real-world situations; investigate and integrate modern-day management concepts to address contemporary challenges in the justice system; examine and assess the ethical issues arising within management and administration of criminal justice organizations, proposing solutions and preventive measures; and analyze the organizational structure and administration of the United States justice system, considering its historical development and current context.
This course provides students a theoretical, conceptual, and practical overview of criminal justice organization and management. Topics include an overview of the American criminal justice system as an interdisciplinary social science involving aspects of criminology, sociology, law, and political science, administrative and managerial concepts underlying decision making, policy formulation, operational strategies, and coordination and control procedures.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: analyze the underlying causes of crime and their connection to societal factors; evaluate societal responses to criminal behavior and their effectiveness in addressing the issue; examine the roles and interactions of the criminal justice system and correctional institutions in managing criminal behavior; investigate the development of criminal thought processes and the social dynamics within prison environments; define and differentiate between various crime types and the nature of criminal law; assess the impact of alcohol and substance abuse on criminal behavior and the prevalence of these factors in modern crime; and critique current strategies and policies for addressing social problems related to crime, such as alcohol and substance abuse.
This Criminology course deals with the causes of crime and how it relates to society, as well as the response of society to criminal behavior. The relationship of the criminal justice system and corrections is explored. The development of the criminal mind and the inmates’ social world and its importance within prison are examined. Defining the concept of crime and the nature of criminal law are important aspects of this course. Other topics include the effects of alcohol and substance abuse as prominent factors in modern criminal behavior since a majority of crimes are related to this type of abuse.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
December 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: Evaluate the historical context of emergency management and the role of the Department of Homeland Security; Compare and contrast natural and technological hazards in emergency management, analyzing predictability, response strategies, and mitigation measures; Examine emergency management mitigation techniques, including federal programs and specific examples like Hurricane Sandy and the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program; Analyze FEMA's Whole Community Concept and its significance in involving all stakeholders in disaster management; Evaluate crisis and risk communications, including the use of social media during crises and potential drawbacks; Analyze the military's capabilities and roles in emergency management, including the integration of military assets with civilian agencies; Examine recovery assistance programs and relief organizations, including FEMA's program and the roles of national and international organizations in disaster recovery; Evaluate the effectiveness of UN disaster management efforts, including the roles of UNICEF, UNDP, WHO, and initiatives such as the Sendai Framework.
Emergency Management measures students understanding of the field, the historical context, and future implications. The exam covers various aspects of emergency management, including hazard assessment, mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, international efforts, and the intersection with terrorism and climate change. Through the course, students will gain knowledge and develop critical thinking skills necessary to analyze and address complex emergency management challenges.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Criminal Justice, Political Science, or Public Administration (3/24).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: synthesize various ethical theories and principles to develop a comprehensive understanding of ethical decision-making in the criminal justice context; analyze real-world cases involving ethical dilemmas faced by law enforcement officers, corrections officers, and court officials to identify the key ethical issues and challenges; create strategies for promoting ethical behavior and decision-making within criminal justice organizations, considering the unique challenges faced by these organizations; appraise the effectiveness of existing policies and practices related to ethics and accountability in criminal justice organizations, and propose recommendations for improvement; design an ethical framework for criminal justice professionals that incorporates ethical theories, principles, and real-world considerations to guide decision-making in complex situations; compare and contrast different approaches to criminal justice reform, focusing on the ethical implications and potential consequences of each approach; and evaluate the role of ethics in the criminal justice system and its impact on the behavior of criminal justice professionals.
This course explores the ethical problems and challenges encountered in the various parts of the justice system including law enforcement, litigation, sentencing, corrections, and policy making.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: describe the history and philosophy of the American criminal justice system: Explain the nature and extent of crime in America; analyze the impact and consequences of crime; evaluate the development, concepts, and functions of law in the criminal justice system; and describe the structure of contemporary federal, state, and local justice agencies and processes.
This course provides an introduction, overview, and survey of Criminal Justice and the American criminal justice system by examining the role, development, policies and management of different public agencies and organizations that constitute the criminal justice system. Other topics include the study of current and future critical criminological issues such as due process, discretion in the administration of justice, community policing, police ethics, domestic violence intervention, probation and parole effectiveness and correctional issues.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: describe the history and philosophy of the American criminal justice system; explain the nature and extent of crime in America; analyze the impact and consequences of crime; evaluate the development, concepts, and functions of law in the criminal justice system; and describe the structure of contemporary federal, state, and local justice agencies and processes.
This course provides an introduction, overview, and survey of Criminology and the American criminal justice system by examining the role, development, policies and management of different public agencies and organizations that constitute the criminal justice system. Other topics include the study of current and future critical criminological issues such as due process, discretion in the administration of justice, community policing, police ethics, domestic violence intervention, probation and parole effectiveness and correctional issues.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: evaluate and apply principles of forensic science within the broader context of natural sciences, engineering, and the legal system; analyze various types of physical evidence and discuss their significance in forensic investigations; investigate and interpret the role of interviews, field notes, and reporting in the forensic science process; examine follow-up investigation techniques, interrogation strategies, and their impact on the resolution of criminal cases; critically evaluate the rules of evidence and their application in the legal system as they pertain to forensic science; analyze and differentiate between inductive and deductive reasoning in investigation methodologies, explaining their influence on the decision-making process in solving crimes; and synthesize knowledge of forensic science principles, investigative techniques, and legal implications to develop comprehensive strategies for solving complex criminal cases.
This course introduces forensic science or criminalistics and captures the broader context of both the natural sciences and the practical application including physical evidence, interviews, field notes and reporting, follow-up investigation, interrogation, and rules of evidence. There is an in-depth analysis of investigation methodologies addressing inductive and deductive reasoning to assess the decision-making process to solve crimes.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
December 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the historical development of different types of American law and their impact on the current legal landscape; Analyze the structure and organization of both state and national court systems, including their jurisdiction, functions, and hierarchical relationships; Evaluate the fundamental processes involved in trials and appeals, including pretrial procedures, courtroom proceedings, and post - conviction remedies; Analyze the rules of evidence used in civil and criminal trial courts, including their foundation, admissibility, and application in the courtroom; Examine the legal profession, including the selection process for judges and the various factors that influence appointments to the bench; Evaluate the historical development of the U.S. Supreme Court, including its role as the highest court in the land and the procedures and practices employed by the Court in deciding cases; Analyze the fundamental role that the criminal justice system plays in modern societies and connect it to the importance of courts in maintaining order and imposing justice.
Major topics taught include: the intricate workings of the American courts and explore the dynamic system that upholds justice and safeguards individual rights. The course provides an in-depth exploration of the American courts and their pivotal role in the criminal justice system today. It offers a comprehensive overview of the structures, processes, and challenges faced by the judiciary in carrying out its essential functions.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, Homeland Security, or Political Science (3/24).
- Formerly Multicultural Issues in Criminal Justice (CRJ 315)
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 – Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: analyze the historical and social contexts of race, ethnicity, and crime in the United States, including the impact of systemic racism and historical oppression on crime rates and criminal justice outcomes; evaluate the complex interplay of race, ethnicity, and social class in shaping crime patterns, victimization, and criminal justice system responses; assess the role of cultural stereotypes and media representations in perpetuating racial and ethnic disparities within the criminal justice system; synthesize knowledge of existing research on race and crime to identify and critique policies, practices, and interventions aimed at reducing racial and ethnic disparities within the criminal justice system; apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to develop evidence-based recommendations for improving fairness, equity, and cultural competence within the criminal justice system; and engage in informed and constructive debates on key issues related to race, ethnicity, and crime in America, demonstrating the ability to articulate well-reasoned arguments and consider alternative perspectives.
This course explores the impact of cultural diversity on the criminal justice system, focusing on the historical and contemporary issues involving race, ethnicity, gender, and social class. Topics include the role of law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections in addressing multicultural challenges and promoting fairness and equality.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: analyze the distinctions between police leadership and police management and evaluate their respective implications in law enforcement; critically examine evolving roles of managers within the law enforcement context and assess the impact of these changes on organizational effectiveness; evaluate and compare the diverse types and styles of police leaders and managers, and determine the efficacy of each in various law enforcement scenarios; examine the influence of situational factors on managerial roles and activities, and assess their implications on decision-making processes in law enforcement; engage in advanced police leadership skill-building exercises, and reflect upon personal growth and development in leadership capabilities; evaluate factors that shape follower perceptions and assessments of leaders, and discuss the implications for effective police leadership; and expound on the multi-faceted nature of leadership as an individual, dyadic, group, or organizational process, and discern the implications for law enforcement management.
This course provides students with knowledge of the theory and practice of effective leadership as it relates to law enforcement. Topics include distinguishing between management and leadership; personal traits, characteristics, and behaviors of effective leaders; and factors that influence interaction between various levels of police officers. Students assess their personal leadership skills and learn what differentiates criminal justice organizations from private and other public organizations.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Justice, Criminology, and Emergency Management (6/23).
Miscellaneous - Smarter Degree
Self-study, self-paced.
June 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion, students will be able to: describe developments in film history, from its origins to the present across an all time periods and national contexts; discuss ideas and values represented in film that reflect the diverse and global society in which we live today; understand how film is an art form, and an industrial, theatrical, and non-theatrical medium; demonstrate understanding of film as a national, international and global medium; and analyze the interaction of film and media with its historical and cultural contexts.
This course will introduce students to the art and technique of filmmaking. Students are expected to learn basic principles of film design and the four foundational elements of film style (e.g. mise-en-scene, cinematography, editing, sound) and be able to visualize a basic story idea Students will become familiar with the ideas and materials needed for the technical skills used for creative expression in this film production.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Filmmaking (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: promote an understanding of the importance for physical fitness within our society; describe the physiological basis of physical activity; demonstrate an understanding of the concepts of physical fitness, coronary heart disease, nutrition, low back pain, body mechanics, posture, obesity, stress, and the value of planned activity; identify strategies to control emotions and manage stress; describe hypo-kinetic diseases, and various measures of fitness and health assessment.
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the concepts of wellness and how these concepts can be incorporated into their lives. This course will guide the student to the understanding that wellness is not a static condition but rather a continual balance of the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual aspects of human need.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Allied Health, Public Health, Health Sciences, or Nutrition (6/23).
Various; distance learning format.
June 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: understand concepts and applications of ethics; explain the application of the role of ethics in various leadership styles; develop and describe personal ethics and identify personal moral philosophies and values related to ethical leadership: engage in scholarly writing and conceptualization of an ethical leadership topic; evaluate and analyze the ethical implications of complex real-life scenarios considering multiple perspectives, and propose strategic solutions that promote ethical behavior; synthesize and evaluate ethical frameworks and principles from various philosophical traditions, and apply them to evaluate and resolve ethical dilemmas within a specific context, such as organizational leadership or professional practice.
Ethical Leadership explores the concepts of ethical theories and how the theories apply in the context of leadership. Leaders and followers face various levels and types of ethical decisions. This learning experience examines the role and application of ethics in various situations and focuses on the ability to assess and evaluate the ethics of others.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Ethics, Business, Management, or Human Resources (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
January 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: describe the history of wine, starting from 5000 (B.C) to present; relate viticulture, geography, and climate to a typical wine profile; describe fermentation processes and the production of various classes of wine; identify the wine classification and appellation system for selected wine regions; identify the main environmental and viticulture inputs into wine making; and delineate the basic elements of wine fermentation and the responsible organisms.
The course provides an overview of the history of wine making and help students understand the chemistry of making wine. Topics include major global wine regions, growing conditions, grape varieties, winemaking styles and chemistry behind wine making throughout different regions.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Hospitality and Tourism, Culinary Arts, or General Studies (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
June 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: analyze the development of individual musical artists in relation to their peers, audiences, and the broader society of the time; examine how musical trends and innovations influence the values of citizens and society at the time the music was created; describe and compare a range of music styles, and relate their style characteristics to aspects of cultural history, especially in times of war; identify pieces chosen from each period, draw conclusions about the genre, artist, and approximate date; understand the amazing impact this music has had throughout the United States as well as the rest of the world; and examine, interpret, and explain how personal, political, cultural, economic, and social experiences shaped the history of rock & roll through the 20th century.
The course is designed to help students understand the history of Rock music. The class will survey trends and styles in rock and Roll, focusing first on the artists and groups who gave rise to this hybrid form of music from its blues roots origins. It will then focus on the rise of rock and roll in the 1950s and the corporate, political, and social backlash against it. Students will develop a better musical understanding of the history of early rock-era music and a greater awareness of its musical and cultural significance.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Music History (6/23).
Self-study, self-paced.
December 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: Demonstrate effective listening skills, including active listening and empathetic understanding; Enhance verbal communication skills, such as clarity, coherence, and organization of ideas; Develop skills in non-verbal communication, including body language, gestures, and facial expressions; Cultivate cultural sensitivity and adapt communication styles to diverse audiences; Utilize feedback to improve communication effectiveness and resolve conflicts; Apply strategies for effective group communication and collaboration; Develop emotional intelligence and empathetic communication skills; Implement effective communication techniques in professional settings, such as interviews, presentations, and negotiations; and Reflect on personal communication strengths and weaknesses and create a plan for continuous improvement.
Major topics taught include: This course explores the principles and practices of effective interpersonal communication in various personal and professional contexts. Students will develop essential skills for building and maintaining meaningful relationships, resolving conflicts, and navigating communication challenges. The course will cover theoretical frameworks, practical strategies, and self-reflection exercises to enhance interpersonal communication competence.
In the lower division baccalaureate / associate degree category, 3 semester hours in English, Communication, or Communication Studies (3/24).
Self-study, self-paced.
December 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: Understand the fundamental questions and concepts of philosophy, including the nature of reality, knowledge, morality, and society; Evaluate and critically analyze key philosophical texts, theories, and arguments. Apply philosophical reasoning and critical thinking skills to real-life situations and contemporary issues; Identify and articulate different philosophical perspectives and their implications; Engage in respectful and constructive discussions about philosophical ideas with peers; Develop written and oral communication skills through essay writing and presentations; Demonstrate an awareness of the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped philosophical thought.: Recognize the interdisciplinary connections between philosophy and other fields of study.
This course provides an introduction to the major areas of philosophy, exploring fundamental questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, morality, and society. We will examine classical and contemporary philosophical texts, engage in critical analysis and discussion, and apply philosophical concepts to contemporary issues. By the end of the course, students will have gained a foundational understanding of the philosophical enterprise and developed critical thinking skills.
In the lower division baccalaureate / associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Introduction to Philosophy (3/24).
Self-study, self-paced.
December 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: Explore the different frameworks used to understand family dynamics and social change; Analyze the impact of diversity and inequalities on family structure, processes, and outcomes; Examine the role of social institutions and policies in shaping family life; Illustrate how differences in race, class, gender, and geography influence all aspects of social life; Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate research and apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios; Demonstrate understanding of the relationship between theories and research methods used in the scientific study of marriage and family; Demonstrate an understanding of changing marital values and gender roles in society.
Major topics include: frameworks for understanding family dynamics and social change. diversity and inequalities' impact on family structure, processes, and outcomes; the role of social institutions and policies in shaping family life; how race, class, gender, and geography influence social life; research methods and theories related to marriage and family; and marital values and gender roles in society.
In the lower division baccalaureate / associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Sociology, Social Work, Human Services, Public Policy, Social Science, Psychology, or Criminal Justice (3/24).
Self-study, self-paced.
December 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: Analyze and critically evaluate the research process, including its purpose, components, and ethical considerations, in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of social science research methods; Compare and contrast different research methods and their strengths and limitations, in order to select and justify appropriate methods for specific research questions; Apply theoretical frameworks to formulate research questions and hypotheses, demonstrating the ability to integrate theory into the research process; Discuss qualitative research methods, such as interviews, focus groups, and observation, to collect data, and analyze and interpret qualitative data in order to generate meaningful insights; Design and execute surveys, ensuring ethical considerations, and analyze and interpret quantitative data using appropriate statistical analysis techniques to draw valid conclusions; Evaluate statistical results and interpret their significance, considering factors such as practical significance and statistical power, in order to make informed decisions and draw accurate conclusions; Assess and apply strategies for establishing causation in social science research, including experimental and quasi-experimental designs, in order to understand and interpret causal relationships; Communicate research findings effectively in writing employing appropriate terminology and methodologies.
Major topics include: research methods in social science and focusing on strategies for understanding causation and description. Students will study the research process, theory development, qualitative and quantitative methods, measurement, sampling, data analysis, inferential statistics, multivariate statistics, causation, observational studies, experiments, and natural and quasi experiments. Through readings, writing assignments and practical exercises, students will develop the skills necessary to design, execute, and evaluate research studies.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Psychology, Sociology, or Political Science (3/24).
