Minor in the American Founding and Constitution

Our Mission

The American Founding and the Constitution minor is dedicated to advancing understanding and engagement of the American Founding and the Constitution. Through discussion-based courses focused on careful reading and analysis of primary texts, speeches, pamphlets, and other historical sources and documents, the program will foster a deep understanding of the legal, philosophical, political, and historical foundations of American institutions, encouraging critical thinking about the origin and meaning of Founding principles, scholarly inquiry into historical and contemporary constitutional questions, and well-informed civic engagement. 

Course Requirements

The interdisciplinary minor will require students to complete six 3-credit courses across a number of fields, including History, political science, philosophy, and economics.  Students are required to complete coursework in the following four areas of study, as well as two electives: 

The Philosophy of the American Revolution
History of the American Revolution
Debates on the Constitution
Political Economy of the Founding Era

Events and Activities

American Founding and Constitution students are invited to participate as Constitution Day Scholars in the annual Constitution Day Colloquium.  Students are also invited to the annual Patriot Day Seminar each spring, and engage in ongoing dialogue with faculty, staff and guest lecturers through reading groups, panel discussions, guest speakers and other events. 

Fall 2025 Offerings

The program will offer the following courses during the Fall 2025 semester: 

How to Add the American Founding and Constitution Minor

Starting Fall 2025, students can add the American Founding and Constitution minor by filling out the College of Arts and Sciences' Add a Major or Minor form.

Questions?

Contact Dr. Mariani at marianim@xavier.edu if you have questions or want to learn more about the minor in the American Founding and Constitution.