ACE 406: Environmental Law
Modeled on environmental law courses traditionally offered in law schools, this course is appropriate for advanced undergraduate and graduate students interested in environmental law and policy. The course covers the primary federal statutes and constitutional provisions designed to protect the environment, public health and natural resources. Specific topics include the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Superfund and other toxic waste statutes; Wetland preservation and land use regulations; the Endangered Species Act, environment assessment rules and enforcement mechanisms.
Prerequisites (Must be complete BEFORE taking this course):
ACE 403 or BADM 300 or BADM 301 recommended
Instructor Teaching the Course:
This course is taught by the instructor below. You may click on their name to learn more about them. Teaching schedules vary by semester. Please check the Course Explorer for the most up-to-date information about the sections they will teach.
A. Bryan Endres
View the Course Explorer:
See when the course is offered as well as section details here: https://courses.illinois.edu/schedule/terms/ACE/406
Fall 2018 Restrictions
None!
Additional Course Information
Read more about what Dr. Endres has to say about ACE 406!
Is this class discussion-based or lecture-based? How would you describe your teaching style?
A discussion-based class focused on readings from the assigned text. Most readings are abbreviated/edited decisions by federal courts interpreting the environmental statutes or provisions of the US Constitution.
How are students evaluated (e.g. multiple choice or essay tests, papers, etc.)?
A weekly on-line quiz comprises approximately 30% of the grade for the course, along with class participation (10%), an on-line midterm (25%) and final exam (35%). Specific details are provided in the course syllabus.
What careers does this course help prepare students to pursue?
Careers requiring analysis and weighing of complex situations and critical thinking. Policy-related careers value the introduction to legal analysis. Background information on environmental rules would also benefit individuals seeking careers in environmental or natural resources consulting or engineering.
What courses can students take to prepare for this material?
At the 400-level students are expected to have some knowledge of the legal and political system of the United States. ACE 306 or ACE 403 would be helpful but not necessary. Students without this background have been very successful in the course so long as they engage in the class discussion and diligently read the assigned material for each class.
In what ways does this course prepare students to move through the program and/or into the work force?
Environmental laws are complex and often contradictory. This course will help individuals understand the policy tradeoffs and refine critical thinking skills.
What is your background in Agricultural and Consumer Economics?
Practiced law for 3 years (Washington, D.C. and Phoenix, AZ) with a focus on commercial litigation and intellectual property before joining the faculty at Illinois. Former Chair of the Agricultural Law Section Council of the Illinois State Bar Association; Vice Chair, Agricultural Management Section of the American Bar Association; and Board of Directors of the American Agricultural Law Association. Consulted with various national and international projects relating to biotechnology regulation and liability; sustainable agriculture standards; and food production contracts.
What is your attendance policy?
Attendance is not required, but factors into the class participation score and is essential to develop a full understanding of the materials.
