Legal Studies

This course provides students with a foundational understanding of the essential skills required for legal practice. Students will learn key research techniques, including the use of legal databases, statutes, case law, and secondary legal sources. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical thinking by interpreting and applying legal principles to various fact patterns. The course also covers the structure and organization of legal writing, focusing on drafting clear, concise legal documents such as memos, briefs, and client communications. Through practical assignments and simulations, students will build critical skills in research, analysis, and persuasive legal writing.

This course examines the evolution of the intersection of American Law and culture from the late colonial period to the twentieth century. This course will specifically analyze legal history from a cultural perspective. Among the subjects covered are the questions over sovereignty and freedom posed by the American Revolution, the ratification and implementation of the American Constitution, 19th Century debates over federalism and citizenship, reforms of the Progressive era, and the ways in which the legal system transformed during the postwar era. Special attention will be paid to the relationship between American law and social justice, particularly the women's rights and civil rights movements. By examining the historical context, students will gain a deeper understanding of how the U.S. legal system has adapted and evolved in response to societal, political, and economic changes.

This course examines the ethical obligations and professional responsibilities of legal practitioners. Students will explore key principles of legal ethics, including client confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and attorney-client privilege, as well as the rules governing attorney conduct as outlined by the American Bar Association (ABA) Model Rules of Professional Conduct. The course also addresses issues of integrity, accountability, and the moral challenges faced by lawyers in practice. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, students will develop a deeper understanding of ethical decision-making and the responsibilities of lawyers to the courts, their clients, and society.

This course could have several positive impacts on other courses, majors, minors, certificates, or programs, especially those that intersect with legal principles or require strong research and analytical skills.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of contract law and the essential skills needed for drafting enforceable agreements. Students will learn about contract formation, performance, breach, and remedies, as well as the legal doctrines governing contract interpretation. The course emphasizes practical skills in contract drafting, including clear language use, structuring terms, and antifipating potential disputes. Through real-world examples and drafting exercises, students will develop the ability to create precise, legally sound contracts tailored to specific legal and business needs.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles of criminal law and the procedures governing the criminal justice system. Students will study the elements of criminal offenses, defenses, and the legal concepts of mens rea and actus reus. Additionally, the course covers key procedural aspects, including the rights of the accused, search and seizure, due process, and the stages of criminal prosecution from arrest through trial and sentencing. Case law and statutory analysis are integral components, helping students understand the application of criminal law in real-world contexts.

This course examines the legal framework governing employment relationships and workplace regulations. Students will explore key topics such as employee rights, employer responsibilities, discrimination, wage and hour laws, wrongful termination, and workplace safety. The course covers federal statutes such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as well as state-level employment laws. Students will also study the legal processess for resolving workplace disputes and the role of regulatory agencies in enforcing labor standards.

This course provides an overview of the principles and practices of administrative law, focusing on the role of government agencies in creating, enforcing, and adjudicating regulations. Students will explore the legal frameworks that govern agency rulemaking, adjudication, and enforcement actions, as well as judicial review of agency decisions. Key topics include the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), due process in administrative hearings, and the impact of regulatory compliance on businesses and individuals. The course emphasizes the practical application of administrative law in various sectors, preparing students to navigate and manage regulatory requirements effectively.

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of tort law, focusing on civil wrongs and the legal remedies available for personal injuries. Key topics include negligence, intentional torts, strict liability, and product liability. Students will analyze the elements required to establish liability, defenses to tort claims, and the calculation of damages in personal injury cases. Through case studies and legal analysis, students will develop a practical understanding of how tort law applies to real-world situations, including medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and consumer protection.

This course provides an in-depth examination of selected topics within the field of legal studies. Topics may include emerging legal issues, specialized areas of law, regulatory developments, or interdisciplinary legal applications. Subject matter will vary depending on faculty expertise and student interest. This course may be repeated for credit when different topics are offered. Prerequisite: Admission to the Master of Legal Studies program or permission of the instructor.

This course is designed to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills developed across the legal studies program. Students will engage in an advanced research project that culminates in the drafting of a comprehensive legal memo or brief. Also, students will have to present an oral presentation of this project. This project will require students to demonstrate proficiency in legal research, analysis, and writing, while also synthesizing core principles from the program's previous courses, including contract law, criminal law, constitutional law, torts, and administrative law. Through this final assignment, students will measure their ability to address complex legal issues, apply legal doctrines, formulate and deliver persuasive oral arguments. The course serves as a culminating assessment of the program's learning outcomes and prepares students for professional legal practice or further academic pursuits.

This course provides an opportunity for advanced, individualized study in a specific area of legal studies under the supervision of a faculty member. Students will engage in independent research, analysis, or applied legal work tailored to their academic or professional goals. The course culminates in a substantial final project, such as a research paper, legal analysis, policy brief, or applied legal project. Prerequisite: Admission to the Master of Legal Studies program or permission of the instructor.