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The William Woods University minor in political/legal studies includes coursework in Constitutional law, procedure, equestrian law, advocacy and more. You will grow your writing skills, sharpen your understanding of logic and argumentation, and advance your ability to analyze and interpret research and legal documents.
An understanding of the way the government works and the various intricacies of the American legal system can be useful to any career. Your minor in political/legal studies can make you a better journalist, teacher, psychologist, ASL interpreter, business person, writer, advocate, and citizen. It can serve as a useful addition to a bachelor’s in English, Criminal Justice, and more.
The minor in political/legal studies at William Woods University includes 15 required course credits and 3 required elective credits.
Minor Requirements
Core Credits: 18.00
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An introduction to the field of political science, including a review of political institutions, political action, theory and practice. The American system of Government will be emphasized. credits:
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Politics and Government -X | 3 |
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An introduction to the American legal system including sources of law, the court systems and fundamental legal principles in several substantive areas of law. credits:
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American Legal System -Q | 3 |
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The substance of law and politics is persuasive communication. This course will explore how this type of communication is utilized in both judicial and political settings. The course will include the theory of argument as well as hands-on application. Law-related advocacy will focus on opening and closing statements; direct and cross examinations; jury instructions; courtroom demeanor; and appellate argument. Political communication will focus on structured debate and formal argument. credits:
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Introduction to Advocacy | 3 |
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An examination of the political philosophies expressed in the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Considers the viability of these philosophies in the context of contemporary American society and politics. credits:
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American Political Theory | 3 |
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This course will explore international political and legal issues. Discussion will include international courts and legal standards, such as the Hague Convention, International Criminal court and various treaties on human rights as well as the political structure of countries by comparison with the US system. credits:
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International Law and Politics | 3 |
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A case study approach to the allocation of power within the branches of the federal government and between state and federal governments, due process, equal protection, rights of the criminal defendant and the freedoms of speech, religion and privacy. Prerequisite: PLS105 and PLS110 credits:
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Constitutional Law | 3 |
Required Elective - 12 Credits
credits:
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Advanced Projects | 3 |
credits:
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Introductory Projects | 3 |
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This course takes a critical look at codes of ethics that guide the legal profession and contemporary moral and ethical problems that comprise much of the debate over current legal issues such as abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment. These topics are examined thought the lens of various ethical theories including utilitarianism, categorical imperative, divine command theory and cultural relativism. credits:
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Law, Ethics and Morality -U | 3 |
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This course will introduce you to the use of critical thinking skills to understand and evaluate political speech and action. The course will be structured around the political principles contained in the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. We will use the tools of critical thinking to engage in analysis and discussion of concepts contained in these documents including the meaning of justice, liberty, equality and freedom. We will then critically evaluate the use of these terms by current political figures and organizations by looking at political speech, proposals, platforms and actions that utilize these terms. credits:
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Critical Thinking About Politics -i | 3 |
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The substance of law and politics is persuasive communication. This course will explore how this type of communication is utilized in both judicial and political settings. The course will include the theory of argument as well as hands-on application. Law-related advocacy will focus on opening and closing statements; direct and cross examinations; jury instructions; courtroom demeanor; and appellate argument. Political communication will focus on structured debate and formal argument. credits:
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Introduction to Advocacy | 3 |
credits:
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Independent Study | 3 |
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An introduction to the American legal system through the study of philosophy and theories of law and justice. Prerequisite: PLS110 credits:
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American Jurisprudence | 3 |
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An examination of the political philosophies expressed in the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Considers the viability of these philosophies in the context of contemporary American society and politics. credits:
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American Political Theory | 3 |
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This course will explore international political and legal issues. Discussion will include international courts and legal standards, such as the Hague Convention, International Criminal court and various treaties on human rights as well as the political structure of countries by comparison with the US system. credits:
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International Law and Politics | 3 |
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Course requires a minimum of 120 clock hours in an approved work situation. The student must submit a log documenting the work dates and times and describing the work activities according to at lease three pre-approved objectives. In addition, the student will submit three essays describing and evaluating each of the following: the role of the on-site supervisor, the quality of the work environment, and the usefulness of extended internships. The student will also prepare a resume. Requires permission of division chair. credits:
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PLS Internship I | 3 |
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Special one-semester classes and seminars with varying subject matter designed for majors at the junior and senior level. The topic will be announced in the schedule of classes. May be taken three times for credit with change of topic. Requires permission of instructor and the division chair. credits:
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Advance Projects | 3 |
credits:
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Senior Seminar | 3 |
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Students will conduct statistical research and utilize appropriate legal or political research methodology for the purpose of proposing, supporting, and advocating for a legal or political policy. May include a service-learning component. Prerequisite: PLS105 and PLS110 (A statistics course is recommended) credits:
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Writing and Research in Public Policy | 3 |
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A case study approach to the allocation of power within the branches of the federal government and between state and federal governments, due process, equal protection, rights of the criminal defendant and the freedoms of speech, religion and privacy. Prerequisite: PLS105 and PLS110 credits:
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Constitutional Law | 3 |
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Students must apply for admission to the Political Studies Certificate Program in the sophomore year. The Certificate program credit will be granted in the student’s senior year upon successful completion of the student’s portfolio. The student will be expected to work with the faculty in the Political Studies Certificate Program to identify and engage in appropriate activities which indicate a strong commitment to public policy and political participation. May include a service-learning component. Prerequisites: A statistics course, PLS105 and PLS110 credits:
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Political Studies Capstone | 3 |
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Course requires a minimum of 120 clock hours in an approved work situation. In addition to submitting a log of work activities with dates and times, the student will develop a complete portfolio illustrating internship activities and outcomes, with brief explanatory texts. The student will also prepare a resume. Requires permission of division chair. credits:
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Internship II | 3 |
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Course requires a minimum of 240 clock hours in an approved work situation. In addition to submitting a log of work activities with dates and times, the student will submit a substantial essay according to a pre-approved outline that will describe the relationship or integrations of theory (curriculum) and practice (internship). The discussion of theory and practice should cover knowledge, methodology and value development. Requires permission of division chair. credits:
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Internship III | 6 |
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Students must apply for admission to the Prelaw Certificate Program in the sophomore year. The Certificate program credit will be granted in the student’s senior year upon successful completion of the student’s portfolio. The student will be expected to work with the facility in the Prelaw Certificate Program to identify and engage in appropriate activities which indicate a strong commitment to public policy and political participation. May include a service learning component. Prerequisites: A statistics course, PLS105 and PLS110 credits:
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Prelaw Certificate Capstone | 3 |