Rate My Professor Karen Swenson

Dr. Karen Swenson is the Department Chair, Professor, and Pre-Law Coordinator in the Political Science Department at Eastern Illinois University. She holds a J.D. from Vanderbilt University and a Ph.D. from The Ohio State University. Specializing in public law and judicial politics, Dr. Swenson teaches a range of courses in constitutional law and judicial politics, including Criminal Law (PLS 3523), Moot Court (PLS 2513), and Constitutional Law (PLS 4774), often delivered in hybrid formats. Her academic background equips her to guide students through complex topics at the intersection of politics and law. As Pre-Law Advisor and Internship Coordinator, she plays a pivotal role in preparing Political Science majors for advanced studies and professional opportunities, including law school applications and moot court competitions.

Dr. Swenson's research interests center on politics and the legal process, particularly the dynamics of amicus curiae participation before the U.S. Supreme Court. Key publications include "President Obama’s Policy Agenda in the Supreme Court: What We Know So Far From the Office of the Solicitor General’s Service as Amicus Curiae," published in the Southern Illinois University Law Journal (Volume 34, Winter 2010), which analyzes the Solicitor General's amicus role in advancing the Obama administration's agenda. Another significant work is "Amicus Curiae Briefs and the Court: When Liberal and Conservative Groups Support the Same Party," featured in the Justice System Journal, exploring instances where ideologically opposed groups file supporting briefs for the same party. Her scholarship contributes to understanding strategic litigation and judicial decision-making. Beyond research, Dr. Swenson coaches university Moot Court teams, fostering practical legal skills among students. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Midwest Association of Pre-Law Advisors (MAPLA), enabling her to visit law schools and offer personalized advice on suitable programs. Through these efforts, she enhances student outcomes in graduate and law school placements within the Political Science program. Her office is located in 2321 Coleman Hall, where she holds regular office hours and offers virtual advising via Teams appointments.