Study

This fall-only survey course is designed to provide students, particularly those with no background in the topic, with an overview of the American legal architecture related to the U.S. security enterprise. The class will also examine related issues that arise in the news." It is aimed not only at students considering a career in government or the military, but also for those headed to private practice who appreciate that the U.S.’ proposed $1 trillion defense budget ($2.72 trillion in defense outlays worldwide) impacts virtually all potential clients.

The course includes analyzing the constitutional structure governing national security matters, and the role played by the three branches of government (with special emphasis on Presidential power).

It will also examine governmental surveillance, the investigation and prosecution of national security cases, as well as First Amendment issues related to national security. In addition, homeland security issues (to include the domestic use of the armed forces), security-based travel restrictions, public health emergencies, civil-military relations, and the impact of national security issues on business transactions will be reviewed.

The textbook for this course will be Dycus, et al., National Security Law (8th ed., 2024) ISBN9781543806793 as well as the National Security Law and Counterterrorism Law 2025-2026 Supplement (which should be available in late July). Other materials will be provided as necessary. The instructor and guest lecturers will offer practical, real-world perspectives on the issues discussed based on their extensive careers in government.

The course is expected to include guest speakers (possibly via Zoom). There may be occasional asynchronous content, including short lectures, podcasts, and some documentary footage. Students will have advanced notice of all required participation elements.

There is no examination for this course, but a 30-page research paper (constituting 65% of the grade) is required on a topic chosen by the student and approved by the instructors. With instructor approval, the course paper may fulfill the Substantial Research and Writing Project provided that all SRWP requirements are met. The remainder of the grade (35%) is based on the quality and frequency of class participation (which may include short papers and/or brief oral presentations).

Given that this is a course in national security, class instruction will likely include written, oral, and visual depictions of physical force and violence—and occasionally extreme representations of the same.

Enrollment Pre-/Co- Requisite Information

LAW 120 CONSTITUTIONAL LAW is highly recommended, but not required, as a prerequisite for one-year LLM students.

Fall 2025

Course Number	Course Credits	Evaluation Method	Instructor
582.01	3	Research paper, 25+ pages Oral presentation Class participation	Charles J. Dunlap, Jr.
Canvas site: https://canvas.duke.edu/courses/65611