The curriculum of the Justice and Civil Leadership major encompasses both a comprehensive pre-law program and an interdisciplinary program in philosophy, politics and economics. First, the curriculum will require students to develop familiarity with relevant fields in both the humanities and social sciences with respect to different methodologies and making value judgments. Second, in order to prepare students to address complex and diverse societal issues in a variety of different professional areas, students will take courses that enable them to acquire the skills of critical thinking and normative evaluation necessary to understand and analyze these multifaceted issues. Third, the curriculum’s diversity with respect to both subjects and methods will enable students to exercise their independent judgement in framing research projects and evaluating methods, concepts and arguments relating to different research areas.
Students explore innovative courses in law, politics, and philosophy, addressing topics including human rights, the environment, global commerce, international and domestic law, policy-making, applied ethics, and the roles of international organizations. Because the JCL produces career leaders prepared to confront complex problems, classes provide a practical and theoretical education where students question assumptions, critique and develop arguments, evaluate normative claims, and originate research projects addressing contemporary issues. Specific courses in leadership, policy-making, negotiation, diplomacy, and social movements will enrich students’ leadership education.
Students seeking official recognition of more focused studies within the JCL program may elect a concentration in one of the three subfields of the JCL major (Law, Politics, or Philosophy). Upon graduation, a student who has successfully completed five courses (fifteen credits, including the Major Required courses) designated in the field may request a certificate of concentration acknowledging this specialization. However, no concentration is required.