580 Law and Social Science Colloquium

This research seminar will involve discussing some of the latest research at the intersection of the fields of law and social science. Over the semester, we will host outside speakers presenting cutting-edge interdisciplinary work involving a variety of methods, including quantitative, qualitative, and experimental.  Topics will cover both public and private law subjects.  We will read introductory material to better understand the relevant social science methods. Students will be asked to prepare, in advance, short and critical reaction papers of the speakers’ work, including both the methodology and contributions of the research.  The requirements for the class are completion of the reaction papers and active participation in the seminar discussions. There will be one class meeting each week. On dates that speakers are invited, the class will meet at lunch.

Course Areas of Practice
Evaluation Methods
  • Reflective Writing
Degree Requirements
Course Type
  • Seminar
Learning Outcomes
  • Other professional skills needed for competent and ethical participation as a member of the legal profession

Sample Syllabi

Spring 2025

2025
Course Number Course Credits Evaluation Method Instructor

580.01 2
  • Reflective Writing
Chris Buccafusco, Brandon L. Garrett

This research seminar will involve discussing some of the latest research at the intersection of the fields of law and social science. Over the semester, we will host outside speakers presenting cutting-edge interdisciplinary work involving a variety of methods, including quantitative, qualitative, and experimental.  Topics will cover both public and private law subjects.  We will read introductory material to better understand the relevant social science methods. Students will be asked to prepare, in advance, short and critical reaction papers of the speakers’ work, including both the methodology and contributions of the research.  The requirements for the class are completion of the reaction papers and active participation in the seminar discussions. There will be one class meeting each week. On dates that speakers are invited, the class will meet at lunch.

Syllabus: 580-01-Spring2025-syllabus.docx31.96 KB

Degree Requirements
Pre/Co-requisites
None

*Please note that this information is for planning purposes only, and should not be relied upon for the schedule for a given semester. Faculty leaves and sabbaticals, as well as other curriculum considerations, will sometimes affect when a course may be offered.