- Level Professional
- Duration 11 hours
- Course by University of Pennsylvania
-
Offered by
About
The employment relationship is one of the foundations upon which modern society and the greater economy is built, but the nature of this relationship can be both complex and confusing. This course seeks to demystify the ways that U.S. contract law principles govern the fundamental relationship between employers and employees. We begin by examining the default rule of at-will employment that applies to most U.S. employment relationships, and we then consider the necessary elements required to create a binding employment relationship. We also explore how courts interpret the content of employment agreements as well as what factors courts consider in awarding damages when an employment agreement is breached. Finally, we take a deeper dive into employment-related agreements such as non-disclosure agreements, non-disparagement agreements, and mandatory arbitration clauses, and how the law has evolved to keep up with the changing nature of the fundamental employment relationship.Modules
Welcome to the Course
1
Discussions
- Introduce Yourself
2
Videos
- Introduction: Welcome to the Course
- The Default Rule: At-Will Employment
1
Readings
- At-Will Employment: Overview
Requirements for an Employment Contract
2
Videos
- Assent
- The Statute of Frauds
2
Readings
- Mutual Assent
- The Statute of Frauds
Consideration
1
Assignment
- Module 1 Quiz
4
Videos
- Consideration: Illusory Promises
- Consideration: Mutuality
- Consideration: Past Consideration
- Promissory Estoppel
2
Readings
- Mutuality in Contracts
- Promissory Estoppel
Interpretation of Employment Contracts
1
Assignment
- Module 2 Quiz
2
Discussions
- Parol Evidence Rule
- Implied Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing
5
Videos
- Mandatory Rules
- Interpretation: Vague or Ambiguous Terms
- Interpretation: Parol Evidence Rule
- Interpretation: Employee Handbook
- Interpretation: Employer Breach and Good Faith
2
Readings
- The Parol Evidence Rule
- The Implied Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing
Damages
1
Assignment
- Module 3 Quiz
6
Videos
- Expectation Damages
- Foreseeability, Certainty, and Avoidability
- Mitigation
- Liquidated Damages
- Mitigation and Liquidated Damages
- Specific Performance
3
Readings
- Expectation Damages
- Liquidated Damages
- Specific Performance
Special Topics in Employment Contracts
1
Assignment
- Module 4 Quiz
6
Videos
- Electronic Agreements
- Modification
- Non-Compete Agreements
- Non-Disclosure Agreements and Non-Disparagement Clauses
- Mandatory Arbitration Clauses
- Conclusion
3
Readings
- Non-Compete Agreements
- Non-Disclosure Agreements
- Arbitration Agreements
Auto Summary
Unlock the intricacies of U.S. employment relationships with the "Employment Contracts" course, tailored for professionals in the Business & Management domain. Delve into the fundamental principles of U.S. contract law that govern employer-employee dynamics. Guided by expert instructors from Coursera, this comprehensive course unravels the complexities of at-will employment, the essential elements of binding employment relationships, and the judicial interpretation of employment agreements. Over a span of 660 minutes, explore critical topics including breach of contract damages, non-disclosure agreements, non-disparagement agreements, and mandatory arbitration clauses. Gain insights into how legal frameworks adapt to the evolving employment landscape. Ideal for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of employment law, this course offers flexible learning through Coursera's Starter subscription. Elevate your expertise and navigate the legalities of employment contracts with confidence.

Tess Wilkinson-Ryan