Course Syllabus

SPEA-V184 | Introduction to Law and Public Affairs | Fall 2026

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course provides a basic understanding of origins, process, and impact of law in making and implementing public policy. Students learn who has power to make and implement laws, the different forms law takes, how to find and interpret law, and the key principles of law that shape public affairs

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the semester, students should be able to:
i. Explain how and why lawmaking powers differ among branches and levels of government
ii. Apply to real and hypothetical events, major rules or principles of law that affect how government acts on
public affairs issues
iii. Explain how civil disputes and criminal charges are resolved in America
iv. Explain at a basic level how administrative agencies make and implement law
v. Identify one or more examples of how demographic differences have affected or may affect someone’s
experiences with American law
vi. Compare US and foreign approaches on one or more selected issues of law and policy
vii. Conduct basic online research to find relevant and valid law and related information
viii. Form persuasive oral and written arguments that incorporate legal and policy considerations
ix. Relate the major course concepts to events in the new or history of students’ own lives

Required Course Textbook

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Course Delivery Method

In-Person, Monday and Wednesday 12:45 PM-2:00 PM at SPEA A274

Resources

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Canvas Student Guide: Detailed instructions for using Canvas as a student.
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