Academic Catalog

Constitutional Studies Minor

The Constitutional Studies minor is designed to develop a student’s understandings of the foundations of law in general as well as the American constitutional system in particular. Students will study the purpose and moral foundations of law as well as different methodological interpretations of legal texts, particularly the U.S. Constitution. In addition, students in the minor will develop the capacity to analyze the decisions of the U.S. Supreme Court. Students will also study the American regime by analyzing the writings of American statesmen and jurists and understanding their philosophic influences.

Students earning the Constitutional Studies minor cannot also earn the Politics and Government major or minor.

Students who seek to complete a minor in constitutional studies must complete a minimum of 60% of their credits at Benedictine College.

Requirements for a Minor in Constitutional Studies 

Required Courses
POLS-1800Principles of American Government3
or POLS-1200 Foundations US Constitutionalism
POLS-3750American Constitutional Development3
POLS-3760Fundamental Freedoms: First Amendment3
or POLS-3765 Civil Rights: 14th Amendment
POLS-4000American Founding3
POLS-4094Jurisprudence3
One elective approved by Department Chair3
Recommended Elective Course
Catholic & Contempory Engag W/ US Const
Total Hours18