Why You Should Consider US Constitutional Law at KCL

Written by Emily Liesegang

Introduction 

As a Law student at KCL, I quickly realised that I have much less freedom over my timetable than I anticipated. In first year, every module is compulsory. In second year, most of your timetable is still fixed, with only 30 credits available for choice. Third year is the most flexible, with 90 open credits. Because these choices are so limited, they matter. The modules you pick will not only shape your workload, but also what you look forward to each week. An optional module should be more than a class that fits your schedule— it should be something that genuinely interests and challenges you. 

For me, that module is US Constitutional Law (USCL). Although I may seem biased as an American citizen, I truly believe this course has immense value regardless of where you intend to practise. Its focus on constitutional interpretation and judicial reasoning develops transferable analytical skills that extend well beyond the US. By providing an overview of the teaching team, course structure, and content, I aim to encourage both current and prospective law students to consider USCL as part of their future studies. 

Teaching Team 

Arguably, the course’s greatest strength is its dedicated teaching team, whose commitment to student learning and success is clear from the outset. In the first few lectures, the professors emphasised their willingness to help students be successful, whether that be through reasonable extensions or generous office hours. The module is led by Professor Ann Mumford and Professor Rumen Cholakov, each of whom brings distinct expertise to USCL. 

Professor Ann Mumford, who also teaches the Law of Personal Taxation at KCL, specialises in tax law, fiscal institutions, and equality, which is clearly reflected in her extensive body of research. Her expertise is particularly valuable when we cover taxation and rights protections. Having lived both within and outside the US, she brings a thoughtful, enthusiastic, and comparative perspective to the course. Beyond her expertise, Professor Mumford is consistently approachable and supportive, answering all questions with care and making sure her students feel confident in the material before moving ahead.  

Professor Ruman Cholakov complements this academic perspective with professional experience. In addition to teaching, he is a practising barrister and a member of the New York Bar, with his credentials reflecting a mastery of the US legal system. From the early lectures, he made clear his view that the US Constitution is the world’s strongest constitutional document and encourages students to engage critically with that claim throughout the course.  

Together, Professors Mumford and Cholakov create an environment that is both intellectually stimulating and genuinely welcoming. Their combined expertise and openness to discussion make each class engaging and one that I truly look forward to attending each week.  

Course Structure & Content 

Beyond its wonderful teaching team, USCL stands out for its real-world relevance. Constitutional law is taught as a living framework that continues to shape political and legal decision-making in the US. The professors consistently connect core principles to current events, including recent Supreme Court judgments, executive actions, and major political developments. Rather than relying solely on historical cases, we apply principles such as judicial review, separation of powers, federalism, and rights protection to issues unfolding in real time. For me, this has transformed overwhelming news cycles into opportunities for structured analysis. It deepens doctrinal understanding, sharpens critical thinking, and makes lectures and tutorials feel engaging and purposeful. Discussions consistently move beyond the textbook, encouraging reflection on how US constitutional developments resonate globally. 

In terms of assessment, while the module is examined by a single end-of-year assessment, the structure is designed to support students rather than intimidate them. The exam is an open-book, take-home paper completed over a 24-hour period, allowing time for careful analysis and structured argument rather than rushed recall. Throughout the year, the professors provide ample formative opportunities and release past examination papers, ensuring that students are well prepared and familiar with the format well in advance. 

Conclusion

Overall, USCL is a distinctive and thoughtfully designed module that combines rigorous study with contemporary relevance and practical application. Given the limited opportunities to choose option modules at KCL, it is one that certainly deserves consideration.