History students

Constitutional Studies

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The Constitutional Studies minor provides interdisciplinary training in the politics, history, and philosophy of constitutional government. As an interdisciplinary liberal arts major, it aims to help students achieve the following outcomes: to gain general knowledge of constitutional government in the United States and abroad and to develop effective communication, analytical and critical thinking skills. While completing this minor might constitute excellent preparation for law or graduate school, it is not a prerequisite for any further study of the law.

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About the Program

In recent years the Constitutional Studies program has used generous funding from the Apgar Foundation and the Jack Miller Center to offer lectures and reading groups--with student stipends--on pressing issues. These include Religious Freedom and the American Experiment (2017-18), Exeucutive Authority and Constitutional Government (2016-17), and Constitutionalism, Ancient and Modern (2015-16).

In 2019-20 we are using funding from the Charles Koch Foundation to explore the importance of free speech on campus.

Life After Graduation

  • Prepare for law school or graduate programs in political science, history, public policy, or related fields
  • Enter careers in government, public service, journalism, education, or the legal profession
  • Understand the foundational principles of U.S. democracy and apply them in civic life
  • Bring a constitutional and ethical lens to discussions in your major field of study
  • Think critically about the rights, structures, and limits of government and how they affect real-world issues

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