SOC 360 - Serial Killers in Society
Department: Sociology
Description: Students will study how the definition of the serial killer is applied and study this figure through a sociological and criminological lens. Students will explore the categories of serial killers, their victims, the role in shaping the criminal justice system, and ultimately the serial killer's place in popular culture.
Credit Hours: 3
Current Offerings
Fall 2025
- 001 - Lecture (In Person): T Th 12:35 PM - 1:50 PM , Justin Turner 3.00 hour(s)
- 002 - Lecture (In Person): T Th 3:35 PM - 4:50 PM , Justin Turner 3.00 hour(s)
Dates: 08/18/2025 - 12/06/2025
Location: Schroeder Hall 103 (SCH 103)
Instructor: Justin Turner
Class Notes: Serial Killers in Society: The figure of the serial killer is well established. From the myth of Jack the Ripper to the real-life murders committed by Ted Bundy, the serial killer has long captured the imagination of society. This course sets out to understand why this is the case. Here, students will not only study how the actual definition of the serial killer is applied, they will also study this figure through a sociological and criminological lens. Students will explore the various categories of serial killers, the victims of serial killers, its role in shaping the criminal justice system, and ultimately its place in popular culture – from movies to collectibles and fan clubs. Students will examine how each of these is shaped by larger issues concerning inequality and class, as well as learn the role both the criminal justice system and society at large plays in its creation and subsequent responses to the serial killer and their victims.
Textbooks are not required for this section.
Dates: 08/18/2025 - 12/06/2025
Location: Schroeder Hall 116 (SCH 116)
Instructor: Justin Turner
Textbooks are not required for this section.