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Legal phenomena extends throughout many contemporary political systems, playing an important role in shaping the conduct of life for both individuals and institutions.
Study in the minor emphasizes the forces that shape law and the ways law has been used and understood by a variety of peoples in differing historical circumstances. Political, sociological, historical and philosophical approaches to legal phenomena are included in the program, with other approaches always a possibility for the interested student.
The legal studies minor treats law as a subject of liberal inquiry, open to all students in any major or concentration. The legal studies minor, as a liberal studies program, is not a program in “prelaw” or professional preparation. For those students interested in law as a political, social, historical or philosophical phenomenon, however, the legal studies minor presents an opportunity to study one of the most important aspects of contemporary human society.
For more information, contact program coordinator Dr. Marie Courtemanche.
21 hours of course work organized according to either option 1 or 2.
Option 1
Required classes
Elective classes
Select four additional courses from the following list. All students should take introductory preparatory courses selected from political science, sociology, criminal justice, history, economics and philosophy prior to attempting course work within the minor. No more than two classes may be from the same academic discipline.
Other courses maybe appropriate to meet program requirements when selected in consultation with the program adviser.
Option 2
Portfolio
At the conclusion of their course of study in the legal studies program all students, whether they have selected option 1 or 2, will complete a portfolio demonstrating that they have met the various learning outcomes of the minor.
Course List
All students should take introductory preparatory courses selected from political science, sociology, history, economics and philosophy prior to attempting course work within the minor.