Law and Civic Engagement
The Minor in Law and Civic Engagement is an 18 credit course of study designed to deepen understanding of the structures and functions of American government and the role of law in contemporary society. The Minor particularly seeks to explore the special relationships of women to law and government—as lawmakers, leaders, and policymakers. When coupled with the student's Major, the law and civic engagement Minor prepares students to assume positions of leadership in their communities. For those interested in attending law school, the Minor provides a focused set of courses aimed at providing relevant skills and knowledge. The Minor includes the following courses:
Two courses from the following:
Internship (Typical sites include state and federal courts, the Maryland State Legislature, state agencies, local government bodies, law firms, advocacy groups, and other organizations.)
Public Leadership
The Department also offers an interdisciplinary Minor in Public Leadership designed to meet the needs of students who are interested in preparing for leadership roles (professional or voluntary) after graduation. This Minor should also be useful for students active in student government by providing academic experiences related to effective leadership. The nature of this Minor makes it an effective complement to many Majors. The requirements are as follows: 18 credits consisting of 9-12 credits in academic courses and 6-9 credits in experiential components.
Required courses: POL-202 American Politics in Comparative Perspective; POL-217 Civic Participation and Leadership; and POL-319 The American Presidency or POL-324 Women, Politics and the Law. Students taking 12 credits in academic courses will select one course from the following: HIS-208 The United States, 1900-1945 or HIS-316 The United States, 1945 to the present.
Students must also participate in at least two experiential components under faculty supervision: POL-370 Honors: Model OAS; and an internship.
Directed Leadership Experience
Students interested in this Minor should consult the Department Chair.