This semester-long survey course introduces students to law and the legal systems of the United States. Major focal points include constitutional law, general legal principles, civil and criminal law, tort and consumer law, as well as a foundational understanding of how the legal system functions. Much of the class is scenario-based, incorporating case studies, real-life situations, and mock simulations designed to build students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. The overarching goal of the course is to empower students to become active, informed citizens by equipping them with the knowledge to understand their rights and navigate the legal system in everyday life.

Students who wish to take this course for Advanced credit will be required to complete a capstone project over the course of the semester that includes creating a research question, conducting research with a required number of sources, writing an eight- to 10-page research paper, and presenting/defending their paper.