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major in Law and Politics

Major in Law and Politics

B.A. in Law and Politics Program Overview

Pursuing a Law and Political Science Degree is an incredible opportunity for anyone passionate about understanding societal power dynamics. Our program explores some of the most pressing issues surrounding governance, law, and politics in America. From the constitutional foundations of our republic to contemporary issues that impact us all, a major in Law and Political Science Degree prepares students to think critically about the interplay between politics and law.

Department:

Department of History, Philosophy, and Political Studies

Department chair name:

Gregory D. Massey
B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

Program Coordinator:

Dr. Stephen Morris

Learning at FHU

Why study Law and Politics at FHU?

At Freed-Hardeman University, pursuing a Law and Political Science Degree is more than just academics. It’s about challenging yourself to become a community leader through faith and knowledge. With opportunities for internships and hands-on experience, FHU sets its students up for success in a competitive field. And beyond the classroom, you’ll find support and encouragement from a community that shares your values and vision for the future.

This undergraduate degree is useful in a political context, judicial process, and preparation for law schools.

Program Highlights:

  • Develop a Christian worldview
  • Become an ethical leader in the law and political arena
  • Invaluable internships and hands-on experiences
  • Gain the knowledge and tools needed for success
  • Unparalleled support from faculty, staff, and peers who share your values
  • Attend a university with spiritual growth opportunities

Law and Political Science Degree Four-Year Plans

At FHU, we offer our students the chance to pursue their dreams of a career in law and political science with our dynamic, four-year degree plans. Our programs are designed to challenge our students and provide them with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to succeed in these exciting fields.

2023-2024 4-Year Plan(s)

Bachelor of Arts in Law and Politics

2022-2023 4-Year Plan(s)
2021-2022 4-Year Plan(s)
2020-2021 4-Year Plan(s)
A law and political science major at FHU can prepare you for careers in law enforcement agencies, government agencies, international law, international affairs, corporate law, American constitutional law, and more.

Careers for Law and Politics

If you’re looking for a degree that will prepare you for a successful career and make you a more knowledgeable citizen, consider a Law and Political Science degree. This major allows you to pursue advanced studies or a career in various fields while gaining a deep understanding of the inner workings of our society and being equipped with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Law

  • Government
  • Education
  • Journalism
  • Public Service
  • Military
  • Non-Profit
  • International Relations

 Major in Law and Politics Degree Requirements

If you’re interested in pursuing a degree that allows you to delve deeper into critical issues like power, liberty, and equality, then a major in Law and Politics might be perfect for you! This program emphasizes the role of law and the legal system in determining these issues, which means you’ll gain unique insights into how political processes shape our society.

I. Liberal Arts Core Requirements - 34 hours

Listed in this catalog under Academics: Liberal Arts Core

 

II. Major Requirements - 45-54 hours
POL 231 American Government 3
POL 251 Political Geography 3
POL 293 Law and the American Legal System 3
POL 337 Comparative Governments 3
POL 339 Congress and Legislative Process 3
POL 341 American Presidency 3
POL 389 American Civil Liberties 3
POL 412 Western Political Thought (W) 3
POL 435 Constitutional Law (W) 3
POL 475 American Legal Tradition 3

Choose three (3) courses from the following – 9-18 hours

BUS 354 Legal Environment of Business (3)
BUS 357 Commercial Law (3)
POL 311 State and Local Governments (3)
POL 320 Diversity in America (3)
POL 335 International Relations (3)
POL 385 Fundamentals of Criminal Law (W) (3)
POL 393 Religion and the Law (3)
POL 299/399F Special Topics in Political Studies (3)
POL 391A,B,C Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature OR (1-2)
POL 496 Field Laboratory (3-12)

Choose one (1) course from the following list – 3 hours

HIS 324 American Political Biography (3)
HIS 415 Twentieth Century World (3)
HIS 424 Twentieth Century America (3)
III. Electives (including additional Bible) - 38-47 hours

Requirements for Teaching Licensure in Government:

1.  Completion of the B.A. major in Law and Politics as outlined above

2. Required professional education courses. (See “Department of Education” entry.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Law and Politics Major

Below are answers to questions prospective students often have when considering a major in Law and Politics. If you have additional questions or need more information, please contact admissions@fhu.edu and they will happily answer questions and provide additional details about our program

What is the Law and Politics major at FHU?

The Law and Politics major at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is an interdisciplinary program that examines critical issues of power, liberty, equality, legitimacy, and the state, particularly emphasizing the role of law and politics. The major is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of legal and political systems and the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in law school or related fields.
The Law and Politics program includes political science, history, philosophy, and law courses. Students learn constitutional law, civil liberties, political theory, and international relations. They also have the opportunity to take electives in business law, environmental law and criminal justice.
The Law and Politics major prepares students for careers in law, politics, government, public policy, and related fields. Graduates may pursue careers as lawyers, judges, politicians, lobbyists, diplomats or public administrators. They may also work in non-profit organizations, think tanks or advocacy groups.
In addition to the academic curriculum, the Law and Politics major at FHU provides students with opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, study abroad programs, and mock trial competitions. These experiences help students develop practical skills and gain real-world experience in legal and political settings.
The Law and Politics program at FHU is a rigorous and comprehensive program that prepares students for successful careers in law and related fields. Graduates have the skills and knowledge to navigate complex legal and political systems and positively impact their communities.

What are the benefits of majoring in law and politics at FHU?

Majoring in Law and Politics at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) provides several benefits for students, including:

  1. Interdisciplinary Education: The Law and Politics major at FHU combines courses from political science, history, philosophy, and law, providing a comprehensive understanding of legal and political systems. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to develop a nuanced understanding of the complex issues that shape legal and political debates.
  2. Preparation for Law School: The Law and Politics major is an excellent preparation for law school, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed on the LSAT and in law school. The major emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, effective communication and essential law student skills.
  3. Career Opportunities: Graduates of the Law and Politics degree program have a range of career opportunities, including careers in law, politics, government, public policy, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups. The skills and knowledge gained from this major are highly transferable and can be applied to various professions.
  4. Experiential Learning: The Law and Political Science program at FHU provides students with opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, study abroad programs, and mock trial competitions. These experiences help students develop practical skills and gain real-world experience in legal and political settings.
  5. Christian Perspective: As a Christian university, FHU emphasizes the importance of ethical and moral considerations in legal and political debates. The Law and Politics major encourages students to think critically about the relationship between law and justice and to consider how their faith informs their views on legal and political issues.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Politics at FHU provides students with a rigorous and comprehensive education, preparation for law school, various career opportunities, experiential learning and a Christian perspective on legal and political issues.

What is covered in a Law and Political Science degree at FHU?

A Law and Political Science degree at Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) covers a broad range of law, politics, and government topics. Students in this program take courses in political science, history, philosophy, and law, developing a deep understanding of the complex issues that shape legal and political debates. Some of the specific topics covered in the Law and Political Science degree at FHU include:

  1. Constitutional Law: Students learn about the U.S. Constitution and constitutional law principles, including the federal government’s powers and limitations and citizens’ rights.
  2. Civil Liberties: Students examine the legal protections afforded to individuals under the U.S. Constitution, including freedom of speech, religion, and the press.
  3. American Politics: Students study the workings of American politics, including the structures and processes of the federal government, political institutions, political parties and interest groups.
  4. International Relations: Students learn about the relationships between nations, including issues such as war and peace, trade, human rights, and international organizations.
  5. Legal Theory: Students examine the philosophical foundations of law and analyze different approaches to legal interpretation and reasoning.
  6. Criminal Justice: Students learn about the criminal justice system, including the laws and procedures governing law enforcement, the courts and corrections.

The Law and Political Science degree at FHU provides students with a comprehensive understanding of legal and political systems and the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in law school or related fields. Graduates have the critical thinking, analytical reasoning, comparative politics and practical communication skills to navigate complex legal and political issues and positively impact their communities.

What is the job outlook for the Law and Politics major?

The job outlook for graduates with a Law and Politics major from Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) varies depending on the specific career path pursued. Here are some potential career paths for Law and Politics majors and their respective job outlooks, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

  1. Lawyers: The employment of lawyers is projected to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Lawyers are needed for various legal services, including real estate transactions, intellectual property, and healthcare.
  2. Judges and Hearing Officers: The employment of judges and hearing officers is projected to grow 2% from 2021 to 2031, slower than the average for all occupations. However, there will still be a demand for these professionals in the legal system.
  3. Political Scientists: Employment of political scientists is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Political scientists can work in various fields, including academia, government, non-profits, and private industry.
  4. Public Relations Specialists: The employment of public relations specialists is projected to grow 7% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. Public relations specialists help organizations maintain a positive public image and engage with stakeholders.
  5. Government Officials: The employment of government officials, such as elected officials and administrators, varies depending on the level of government and specific role. However, there is generally a demand for professionals with experience in law and politics in government positions.

Graduates with a degree in Political Science and Law from FHU have a range of career opportunities in law, politics, government, public policy, and related fields. While job outlooks vary by specific career path, there is generally demand for professionals with skills and knowledge in these areas.

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