THE FIRST AMENDMENT
An examination of the basic principles, purposes, and assumptions of First Amendment cases and literature, with attention to both historical and contemporary controversies.
Prerequisites & course information
Requisites: Sophomore standing and ( POLI SCI 104 or LEGAL ST/POLI SCI 217 ) Course Designation: Core GenEd - Social & Behavioral Science Breadth - Social Science Level - Intermediate L&S Credit - L&S Liberal Arts and Science Repeatable for Credit: No Last Taught: Fall 2026 Learning Outcomes: 1. Analyze the structure and substance of judicial opinions at the appellate level. Audience: Undergraduate 2. Explain the role of the lawyer in the judicial system of the United States. Audience: Undergraduate 3. Apply legal research and writing skills in class assignments, demonstrating improvement through revision and feedback. Audience: Undergraduate 4. Evaluate and synthesize complex fact patterns giving rise to First Amendment claims. Audience: Undergraduate 5. Engage in discussions regarding historic and current legal debates on the meaning of free expression and the appropriate reach of the First Amendment. Audience: Undergraduate Learning Outcomes: 1. Analyze the structure and substance of judicial opinions at the appellate level. Audience: Undergraduate 2. Explain the role of the lawyer in the judicial system of the United States. Audience: Undergraduate 3. Apply legal research and writing skills in class assignments, demonstrating improvement through revision and feedback. Audience: Undergraduate 4. Evaluate and synthesize complex fact patterns giving rise to First Amendment claims. Audience: Undergraduate 5. Engage in discussions regarding historic and current legal debates on the meaning of free expression and the appropriate reach of the First Amendment. Audience: Undergraduate
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027