Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy

Certificate

Hours: 9 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy at Fort Hays State University offers a rigorous curriculum designed to deepen students’ understanding of ethical theories and political philosophies. The certificate is distinguished by its unique blend of coursework covering political philosophy, ethics, and critical thinking. Students engage with both classic and contemporary texts, developing a nuanced comprehension of moral and political issues.

Why pursue a Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and flexible learning options. Its interdisciplinary approach enriches the learning experience by drawing on diverse philosophical traditions and applying them to contemporary issues. Experienced professors, actively engaged in philosophical research, bring fresh insights into the classroom. Designed to accommodate both full-time students and working professionals, the certificate offers flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of ethical and political issues. This certificate is perfect for:

Professionals in law or public policy
Students planning to pursue advanced degrees in philosophy
Individuals interested in ethics and social justice
Educators seeking to enhance their teaching of philosophy or social studies
Anyone looking to improve their critical thinking skills

Learning Outcomes

The following learning outcomes reflect the certificate’s commitment to developing well-rounded philosophers who can critically engage with complex issues:

Knowledgeable (Cognitive)

Students will understand key concepts in moral and political philosophy. It includes a thorough grasp of ethical theories and political ideologies and the ability to contextualize these ideas within historical and contemporary debates. By the end of the certificate, students will be able to articulate and critique various philosophical arguments with confidence.

Analytical Skills (Application)

Students will develop the ability to analyze ethical and political arguments critically. Students will learn to deconstruct complex ideas, identify logical fallacies, and construct well-reasoned arguments.

Communication (Affective)

Students will develop the ability to communicate complex philosophical ideas clearly and persuasively. By enhancing both writing and speaking skills, they will be well-prepared to present intricate concepts effectively. This outcome equips certificate completers for roles demanding strong communication abilities, including teaching, advocacy, and public speaking.

Research Proficiency

Conduct independent research using contemporary philosophical methods. Students will learn to design and execute research projects using qualitative and quantitative methods. These skills include formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, and presenting findings in a scholarly manner.

Real-World Applications

Through a curriculum that includes case studies, research projects, and practical applications, students learn to apply philosophical theories to contemporary issues. This hands-on approach ensures they are well-versed in theory and capable of using their knowledge to influence policy, advocate for ethical practices, and make informed decisions in various professional contexts.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Our certificate ensures that students are familiar with contemporary debates and methodologies, preparing them to engage in ongoing philosophical discussions. Courses are regularly updated to include new research and emerging topics, providing students with a cutting-edge education that is both relevant and forward-thinking.

By bringing their latest findings into the classroom, professors offer students a firsthand look at the current state of philosophical inquiry. This exposure to contemporary research and innovative thinking helps students develop a dynamic understanding of moral and political philosophy, equipping them with the tools needed to navigate and contribute to the evolving landscape of their field.

Hands-on Activities

Students can participate in national and regional philosophy conferences to present their research, engage with other scholars, and gain valuable feedback. Additionally, the certificate offers research projects that allow students to apply their philosophical knowledge in practical settings. Whether through conference participation or research projects, students gain practical experience that prepares them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

What You’ll Learn:

Ethical theory
Political philosophy
Critical thinking
Applied ethics
Philosophical research methods

How You’ll Learn:

Online and on-campus classes
Interactive discussions
Research projects
Case studies
Flexible scheduling

Courses

The Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy provides students with a strong foundation in ethical reasoning and political thought, preparing them to engage thoughtfully with complex moral and societal issues. Drawing from both classical and contemporary philosophy, the certificate explores topics such as justice, human rights, and bioethics.

Beyond core coursework, students select electives tailored to their interests and career goals. Whether aiming to deepen understanding of ethical theories or to explore political philosophy, the curriculum offers the breadth and depth necessary for advanced study or professional application.

PHIL 201: Political Philosophy

A critical introduction to topics such as state authority, human rights, justice, liberty, and equality, which are at the heart of understanding the nature of politics and what it is to live responsibly in society.

PHIL 340: Ethics

A critical examination of attempts by philosophers to understand the moral dimension of human life, including such topics as good and evil, rights and duties, reason and emotion, relativism, and the objectivity of values.

PHIL 330: Bioethics

An examination of ethical issues that result from our expanding biological knowledge, such as animal rights, genetic testing, biological engineering, abortion, euthanasia, the impact of humans on the environment, and the allocation of resources.

Discover the full Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Students who complete the Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy will have various career opportunities. This certificate provides the skills and knowledge necessary for various professional paths, including:

Ethics Consultant

Ethics consultants involve evaluating company policies, advising on ethical dilemmas, and ensuring that organizational practices align with ethical standards. This position requires a deep understanding of ethical theories and the ability to apply them to real-world situations.

Public Policy Analyst

Public policy analysts research, analyze data, and propose policy recommendations in this role. A background in moral and political philosophy equips students to evaluate the ethical implications of policies and advocate for solutions that advance justice and equity.

Educator

Educators develop curricula, deliver lectures, and guide students in understanding complex philosophical concepts. Your expertise in ethical and political philosophy helps students develop critical thinking skills and engage with important societal issues.

Non-Profit Manager

Non-profit managers will oversee operations, develop programs, and advocate for the organization's mission. Their philosophical training guides them in addressing societal challenges thoughtfully and ensures that organizational practices consistently reflect core values.

Lawyer

Lawyers provide legal advice, representing clients and interpreting laws through an ethical lens. This position requires strong analytical and communication skills and a thorough understanding of ethical principles and their application in legal contexts.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $1,777.14* (on-campus) or $2,315.97* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

The following programs are closely related to the Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy. They may complement your studies or career goals:

FAQ

Is the Certificate in Moral and Political Philosophy available online?

The online and on-campus certificate offers flexibility for working professionals and full-time students.

Are there any specific prerequisites for this certificate?

There are no specific prerequisites beyond admission to Fort Hays State University. This inclusivity allows a diverse range of students to enroll.

Can I pursue this certificate while working full-time?

The flexible scheduling options allow for completing the certificate while maintaining full-time employment.

What kind of support can I expect from the faculty?

Faculty members provide personalized guidance and mentorship, ensuring students receive the support they need to succeed academically and professionally.

Information about the Department of History and Philosophy

The Department of History and Philosophy at FHSU provides a rich educational experience that equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. Our History Programs offer in-depth courses that allow students to explore diverse historical contexts, preparing them for careers in education, research, public history, and beyond. Meanwhile, our Philosophy Programs challenge students to engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and values, fostering advanced problem-solving abilities and a reflective approach to life.

Together, these programs offer a holistic education that combines the study of the past with the pursuit of timeless philosophical inquiries. Graduates from these programs are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to society and are equipped with the intellectual tools to excel in a variety of careers.

Student Organizations

Additional Information

Moral and Political Philosophy

Certificate

On-Campus
Online

Moral Political Philosophy