Canadian Constitutional Law (M3078)
Canadian Constitutional Law in Comparative Perspective
Module M3078
Module details for 2026/27.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Additional Learning Tasks
Students of this level 5 course will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the subject; the ability to employ that knowledge to solve novel legal problems; and the ability to analyse critically the current law. Students will further be able to work independently, demonstrating legal research skills and communicate effectively, using the principles and concepts of the discipline.
Module Outline
This module develops students’ understanding of the history, structure, sources, and nature of the Canadian constitution. Its focus is threefold: first, it introduces students to the theory and doctrine of the principle of federalism, exploring the constitutional relationship between the federal government and the provinces. The module also critically examines the historical and contemporary relationship between Indigenous peoples and the state, with a focus on how the Constitution Act, 1982 has entrenched the rights of Indigenous peoples and what this means for their political recognition and autonomy. Finally, students will study the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and learn to interpret and apply specific Charter rights in their constitutional, political, and social context.
Pre-Requisite
Public Law I (M3006)
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate foundational knowledge and understanding of the sources, history, structure, and nature of the Canadian constitution
Identify constitutional issues and apply Canadian constitutional doctrine to novel situations
Effectively communicate (both orally and in writing) information, argument, and analysis of Canadian constitutional doctrine and theory
Manage their own learning of Canadian constitutional law in its contemporary context
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Report (500 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Mon 16:00 | 20.00% |
| Computer Based Exam | Semester 2 Assessment | 50.00% |
| Coursework | 30.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Group Presentation | T2 Week 10 (15 minutes) | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 222222222210 |
| Autumn Semester | Project | ||
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 1 hour | 000111111100 |
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 000000000010 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Ashleigh Keall
Convenor
/profiles/574285
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