Legal Issues

Abstract

An institution of higher education is similar to a small city, which means that legal issues in higher education relate to an institution’s students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community and involve every facet of its mission, such as teaching, research, service, global reach, community engagement, and online presence. Legal issues that intersect with higher education include but are not limited to tortious liability, constitutional constraints for public institutions, compliance with administrative and statutory law, contractual obligations, employment discrimination, intellectual property, and business relationships, among others. Since the potential for legal liability and large monetary damages has increased concerns for institutions of higher education since the 1960s, it is vital for institutions and their employees to understand applicable laws. This entry provides an overview of legal issues pertinent to higher education in the United States and internationally.