Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓƵ

Biography

Dr. Nielson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at WCU. He has taught undergraduate courses on police in society, contemporary issues in American policing, research methods, and comparative criminal justice systems. Dr. Nielson’s scholarship focuses broadly on policing. Currently, his research centers on police practices and strategies, policing in foreign contexts, and contemporary issues in the field. His published research has examined police officer attitudes and perceptions of various topics within the contexts of Taiwan and Thailand. In addition, Dr. Nielson has examined the impact of COVID-19 on police officer activities and changes in calls for service within the Houston Police Department Crisis Intervention Response Team post-pandemic. His published works have appeared in the <i>Journal of Criminal Justice, American Journal of Criminal Justice, Police Practice & Research,</i> <i>International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice, </i>and the <i>Canadian Journal of Criminology & Criminal Justice. </i>

Education

• Ph D, Sam Houston State University
• MA, Sam Houston State University
• BA, Utah Tech University

Teaching Interests

Dr. Nielson has a passion for cultivating and promoting a productive learning environment. He emphasizes the salience of student growth and connection in the classroom setting. He strives to not only prepare students with the necessary and adequate skills and tools to be successful in their professional pursuits but also to help equip students with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complexity of our social world. As an educator, he is focused on integrating evidence-based examples, case studies, and arguments in his teaching.

Research Interests

Police practices and strategies<br>Policing in foreign contexts<br>Contemporary issues in policing and criminal justice