Law, Policy, and Strategy in Higher Education

Catalog description

This seminar will introduce students to key elements of research universities in the United States. The introductory materials are intended to provide a basis for students to complete a research paper related to higher education; the goal is for each student to develop a paper that could lead, eventually, to a publication. In the first classes, students will be introduced to the basics about the higher education sector. Given the expectation that serious research will begin immediately when the quarter starts, readings will be relatively light, and will focus on the leadership, governance structure, legal and regulatory environment, and financing of research universities. Then we will devote some sessions to topics in higher education with each student taking the lead discussing the issue with the class--anything from present controversies (changing financial models, academic freedom, political control) to key legal issues (Title VI, antitrust, athletics) to historical topics. Students are encouraged to choose a topic that will advance the research they are conducting for their paper. In the final weeks of the seminar, students will present their research and the thesis of their paper. The class will discuss and provide constructive suggestions. As noted, the core requirement of this seminar is the production of a research paper that could eventually be published. By week 3 of the seminar, students will choose a topic and thesis of their research paper--a question their paper will answer, or a claim their paper will make. An outline will be due in week 5, and a draft will be due in week 9. The final paper of ~ 20 pages will be due on March 30, 2026. Elements used in grading: Attendance, class participation, written assignments, final paper.