Beginning this fall, University of Tennessee, Knoxville students can major in Civic and Constitutional Thought through the Institute of American Civics (IAC) following approval from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. The new Bachelor of Arts degree is the IAC’s first academic degree program and is designed to prepare students for thoughtful leadership by studying American political thought, constitutionalism, political philosophy, and governing institutions.
Housed in the Howard H. Jr. Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs, the program explores American political thought, constitutionalism, political philosophy, political economy, American political development, and the institutions that shape public life. Designed to pair easily as a second major, it helps students understand how American government works while developing the ability to think critically, communicate persuasively, engage in civil disagreement, and lead responsibly.
The new major reflects growing national interest in strengthening civic knowledge and preparing graduates to engage thoughtfully with the constitutional principles and institutions that shape American democracy.
“This major provides students with rigorous education in America’s political traditions, constitutional principles, and enduring public debates,” said Executive Director of the Institute of American Civics Joshua Dunn. “Whether they pursue careers in law, business, public service, or education, students will graduate with the habits of careful reading, thoughtful analysis, persuasive communication, and respectful deliberation that every profession needs.”
Established with bipartisan support from the Tennessee General Assembly, the IAC strengthens civic education and participation through teaching, scholarship and public engagement while promoting thoughtful dialogue and respect for differing viewpoints.
“This is an important milestone for the Institute of American Civics and for the continued growth of the Baker School’s academic programs,” said Dean Marianne Wanamaker. “Through the Institute, Baker School students engage deeply with the ideas and institutions that shape American public life while learning to consider differing viewpoints and debate important questions. Adding Civic and Constitutional Thought as our second undergraduate major strengthens that foundation and gives students another pathway to prepare for leadership in a wide range of fields.”
Graduates of the program will have the foundational knowledge and skills to pursue careers in law, education, government, business, communications, public affairs, civic leadership, nonprofit work, and other public-facing roles.
“Understanding the ideas and institutions that shape American government is valuable regardless of a student’s career path,” said IAC Associate Director Andrew Busch. “Whether graduates become attorneys, entrepreneurs, teachers, business leaders, or public servants, this major equips them to think more deeply about public problems and communicate more effectively in a democratic society.”
Having received final approval by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission and the UT Board of Trustees this summer, students can enroll in the major this fall.