POSC 4500 Constitutional Law

This course will help a student gain a better understanding of the United States Constitution, its foundational documents, as well as the common law legal system that has developed over the past two centuries. This course considers the role of the courts in using judicial review to interpret the law, and promote reflection about the court system (state and federal) and the prevailing schools of Constitutional thought that the courts use to make law. A thorough knowledge of varying points of view and interpretations as to the functions of the law, rights, and how those rights are exercised.

Registration Name

Constitutional Law

Lecture Hours

3

Lab Hours

0

Credits

3

Offered

Demorest: Spring

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon the completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate the following outcome-based learning skills:

1. Better understanding of the United States Constitution, its foundational documents, as well as the common law legal system that has developed over the past two centuries.
2. Think critically and analytically about the forces and factors that shape the behavior of the United States Supreme Court.
3. Promote critical thought and reflection about the court system (state and federal), and the prevailing schools of Constitutional thought that the courts use to justify its rulings and rule of law.
4. A thorough knowledge of varying points of view and interpretations as to the functions of the law, rights, and how those rights are exercised.
5. An in-depth understanding of the issues that impact local and state politics.
6. Preparation for legal writing and how to use court cases (through stare decisis) to enable varying interpretations from the prevailing schools of Constitutional thought.