Law & Technology Minor

As science and technology evolve, there are growing needs for professionals who both understand science and technology and who work within the institutions of the American legal system. At all levels, from federal courts to state regulatory agencies and local planning commissions, policy makers decide issues in an environment of legal rules and principles. Yet to be effective, they must also understand how science and technology can aid their decisions, the methods and conclusions of scientific research, and the social impact of decisions. Without science, environmental regulators cannot decide on measures for hazardous waste disposal, public health officials cannot evaluate new drug therapies, utility regulators cannot authorize new sources of electric power, judges cannot construe the meaning of medical testimony, and attorneys cannot cross examine an expert witness in a product failure case. Decision makers, and those who attempt to influence them, find that they need to understand science and technology.

The Law and Technology Program is an interdisciplinary minor that can be used to supplement a major, introduce students in science and engineering disciplines to legal studies and prepare students to enter law school upon graduation. Students in the program begin their studies with a foundation in legal institutions and analysis and continue with advanced courses that integrate law and technology. A course in professional communication is also required. Students complete their studies with a capstone research activity either in the sixth course or as a separate independent study.

To attain a Minor in Law and Technology, students must complete two units of study (6 courses) as follows:

1. Two of the following courses in legal fundamentals:
   HI 2317 Law and Society in America, 1865-1910
   GOV 1310 Law, Courts and Politics
   GOV 2310 Constitutional Law: Foundations
   GOV 2320 Constitutional Law: Civil Rights and Liberties
   BUS 2020 The Legal Environment of Business Decisions
2. Two of the following courses which integrate law and technology:
   CE 3022 Legal Aspects in Design and Construction
   CE 4071 Land Use Development and Controls
   GOV 2302 Science-Technology Policy
   GOV 2311 Environmental Policy and Law
   GOV 2313 Intellectual Property Law
   GOV/ID 2314 Cyber law and Policy
   Independent study or experimental courses with the approval of the pre-law advisor
3. One of the following courses in professional communication:
   EN/WR 2210 Introduction to Professional Writing
   EN/WR 2211 Elements of Writing
   EN/WR 3214 Writing About Disease and Public Health
   RH 3112 Rhetorical Theory

4. One of the following courses undertaken as a capstone experience:
   GOV 2304 Governmental Decision Making and Administrative Law
   GOV 2312 International Environmental Policy

   If a student takes both GOV 2304 and GOV 2313, the first one taken will count among courses that integrate law and technology, point 2., above. Minors enrolled in either course for their capstone experience will be required to complete the usual course requirements and an additional research paper. In the paper, the student will summarize existing law in an area of student interest, identify problems with the law, evaluate proposals for change and recommend legislative changes.
   
   As an alternative, students may complete the capstone requirement as an independent study (IS/P) course with the approval and participation of one of the associated faculty.

Students should review their program of study with the associated faculty and/or pre-law advisor. Students are also encouraged to seek IQP opportunities in Division 53, Law and Technology. Note: only one of the two units may be counted toward other college requirements.

For general policy on the Minor, visit Minors.