Business Law Fundamentals
(Non-Vocational Course)
Course Description:
This course offers students a foundational understanding of business law concepts relevant to the modern business environment. It examines the legal framework governing business formation, contracts, employment, consumer protection, intellectual property, and ethical decision-making. Students will develop legal awareness, risk assessment skills, and critical thinking relevant to real-world commercial and community contexts. The course is designed for students from any field who want to better understand the legal landscape of business and entrepreneurship.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
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Explain key legal concepts and terminology related to business operations.
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Analyze common legal issues businesses face, including contracts, torts, and liability.
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Identify different business structures and understand their legal implications.
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Apply basic principles of contract and employment law to hypothetical scenarios.
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Understand intellectual property rights and digital law basics.
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Recognize the role of ethics, equity, and regulation in business conduct.
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Evaluate the impact of law on entrepreneurship, social enterprise, and innovation.
Instructional Methods:
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Interactive lectures and legal vocabulary building
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Group problem-solving and mock legal scenarios
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Case study reviews of real-world legal issues
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Guest speakers (e.g., business attorneys, compliance officers, entrepreneurs)
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Debates and ethical dilemma analysis
Required and Recommended Materials:
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Instructor-provided readings and handouts
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Access to online legal databases (e.g., Cornell Legal Information Institute)
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Selected excerpts from open-access legal texts or business law primers
Community and Career Relevance:
This course integrates legal and ethical awareness for future entrepreneurs, public servants, nonprofit managers, and socially conscious business leaders. It emphasizes accessible legal literacy, justice-informed business decisions, and the role of law in creating inclusive economies.