In the United States, free speech laws on college campuses are primarily governed by the First Amendment to the Constitution. Public universities, being state-run institutions, must adhere to the First Amendment, which protects the right to free speech. As a result, students and faculty at public universities have broad speech protections, similar to those in other public spaces.

Private universities, on the other hand, have more leeway in regulating speech. They are not bound by the First Amendment, and their ability to restrict speech is determined by their own institutional policies and, in some cases, state laws.

When comparing universities to corporations, it's important to note that while both can set policies around speech and expression, the legal obligations differ. Public universities, as state actors, are bound by the First Amendment, which restricts their ability to limit speech. Meanwhile, private universities and corporations have more flexibility in setting their speech-related policies, although they are still subject to certain state and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Sources

Free Speech on College Campuses: The Ultimate Guide - Freedom ForumThe Basics - Campus Free Speech Guide - PEN AmericaDoes the First Amendment apply to public universities? - Free Speech, Rights and Responsibilities - University of Wisconsin-MilwaukeeFree Speech on Campus | The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression - FIRE

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