POSC 233

I. Course Title: Law in America (GE)

II. Course Number: POSC 233

III. Credit Hours: 3 credits

IV. Prerequisites: POSC 120

V. Course Description: 

A survey of the sources and functions of American law. The emphasis of this course is the understanding of how law functions, where it functions, and how the political and social realms affect law in the United States.

Note(s): General Education and Cultural or Behavioral Analysis designated course. Students may not receive credit for both POSC 333 and POSC 233.

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

This course is a survey of the sources and functions of American law where students will examine the various types of law (e.g. civil, constitutional, criminal, etc.) to determine the capacity and limitations of law and legal processes to deal with social problems. The emphasis of this course is the understanding of how law functions, where it functions, and how the political and social realm affect law in the United States. This course is divided into three sections to address the broad question of what is the law and two specific areas where the law’s intersection with society and politics is evident. 

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

By the end of the semester, students should be able to:

1. Describe the sources of law in the United States;
2. Explain the major philosophies concerning the role and function of law;
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the substantive areas of law that we examine in this course;
4. Identify the interconnected nature of law and society; and,
5. Evaluate how the political and social realms affect law in the United States.

Review and Approval

March 01, 2021