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Law and Public Policy
Prof. Alasdair S Roberts,
3 credits day; 3 credits evening.
This course introduces students to the political and institutional considerations that influence the
design and implementation of policy in the public sector. It provides an analytic toolkit for
understanding why certain kinds of policies are preferred over others; how legal and bureaucratic
arrangements facilitate or undermine new policies; and how entrepreneurs succeed in promoting
new policies. It also provides students with the opportunity to learn more about the dynamics of
state policymaking through research and meetings with key decision makers. The course will
have three components. It will begin with a series of lectures on key concepts, followed by a set
of case discussions. The last third of the course will consist of meetings with senior
policymakers, policy advocates and journalists. Students will also complete a research paper
examining an issue currently or recently under debate in state government. The Rappaport Center
administers activities associated with this course. Evaluation will be based on an in-class 75
minute test of material covered during lectures; one short (800 word) case analysis; and the
research paper.
Enrollment is limited: 25
Elective Course
On List of Recommended Perspectives Courses
May Fulfill Legal Writing Requirement