Legal Studies (B.A.)

Student Learning Outcomes for Legal Studies:

Students will be able to:

• Formulate cogent arguments and skillfully critique the arguments of others.

• Recognize, express, and analyze arguments in texts in Western philosophy, philosophy of law, and political theory and the ability to summarize and explain difficult ideas and concepts.

• Explain concepts of right, wrong, good and bad.

• Discuss moral and social principles and their application in everyday life.

• Explain the origins, development, and theoretical foundations of Western political philosophy and law.

• Discuss the main historical answers to the central problems of Western political philosophy.

• Interpret major works of the prime thinkers in political philosophy

• Write succinctly, clearly, thoroughly, and probingly, reflecting careful attention to language, logic, and subtleties of reasoning.

• Explain philosophical and legal concepts such as justice, order, and rights.

• Discuss the metaphysical, epistemological, and ethical assumptions undergirding competing concepts of human nature and society.

• Explain the implications of political philosophy on contemporary social and political movements.

For students who are interested in law school, a strong advisory component in terms of proper course work, relevant extracurricular activities and preparation for the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) examination is offered.

The advisor for this major is Dr. Kyle Kopko.