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.
Spring 2025 Offerings
The program will offer the following courses during the Spring 2025 semester:
History of the American Revolution Course
- HIST 199: The American Revolution, 1763-1812, Dr. Karim Tiro
- POLI 110: American Politics and Government, Dr. Mack Mariani
- POLI 335: Democratic Theory and Practice, Dr. Katie Robiadek
- POLI 347: Supreme Court on Civil Liberties, Dr. John Ray
- PHIL 339: Revolution and Its Aftermath, Dr. Steve Frankel (PPP only)
- BLAW 300: Business Law, Various Instructors
- HIST 199: Native American Health, Dr. Frank Rzeczkowski
How to Add the American Founding and Constitution Minor
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.