Certificate in General Philosophy

Hours: 9 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in General Philosophy at Fort Hays State University allows students to deepen their understanding of philosophical concepts and enhance their critical thinking skills. The faculty designed this certificate to complement various career paths by providing a robust foundation in philosophy.

Our Certificate in General Philosophy is unique in its flexibility, offering both on-campus and online courses to accommodate diverse learning needs. Whether students are enhancing a current degree or pursuing the certificate independently, it can be tailored to fit individual schedules and professional goals.

Why pursue a Certificate in General Philosophy at Fort Hays State University?

Pursuing a Certificate in General Philosophy at FHSU offers a unique blend of flexibility and comprehensive education tailored to meet diverse student needs. Students can complete our certificate online and on campus, providing an accommodating schedule for working professionals and students alike.

Instructors design the Certificate in General Philosophy curriculum to be broad yet rigorous, ensuring that students develop a strong foundation in philosophical thinking while being free to explore specific areas of interest. Moreover, Fort Hays State University’s commitment to personalized education means that students receive individual guidance from our experienced faculty. This mentorship ensures students can maximize their potential and apply philosophical concepts to real-world scenarios.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in General Philosophy is for individuals seeking to enhance their critical thinking and analytical skills, and it is particularly beneficial for:

Student looking to complement their current studies with philosophical training
Professionals aiming to improve their decision-making and problem-solving abilities
Individuals interested in pursuing further studies in philosophy or a related field
Anyone seeking personal enrichment and a deeper understanding of philosophical concepts

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in General Philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication, preparing students to excel in diverse fields.

Knowledgeable

Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of key philosophical concepts and arguments. This understanding includes an ability to analyze and critique different philosophical positions critically.

Critical Thinker

Students will cultivate strong critical thinking skills, enabling them to evaluate complex scenarios and construct coherent arguments. The certificate fosters this analytical capability through courses that challenge students to dissect and debate philosophical texts and ideas.

Ethically Aware

Students will develop a deep understanding of ethical principles and moral reasoning. They will learn to apply these concepts to real-world situations, making informed and moral decisions.

Effective Communicator

Students will enhance their philosophical writing and communication skills. They will learn to clearly articulate their ideas in written and oral formats, effectively conveying complex philosophical concepts to diverse audiences.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in General Philosophy prepares students for various real-world applications by equipping them with essential critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills. Numerous fields, including law, business, education, and public service, highly value these competencies.

Students learn to dissect complex challenges, formulate logical arguments, and make ethical decisions, which are crucial in today's multifaceted job market. Additionally, the Certificate in General Philosophy emphasizes effective communication, enabling students to articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The certificate integrates the latest advancements and trends in philosophical research and education, ensuring that students remain current with contemporary debates and methodologies. The curriculum is designed to include digital resources, online databases, and collaborative platforms, equipping students with modern research techniques.

Furthermore, students are encouraged to participate in academic conferences and engage with cutting-edge topics. This exposure to the latest philosophical discussions ensures that students who complete the certificate are well-versed in traditional philosophical theories and adept at addressing current issues and innovations in the field.

Hands-on Activities

Students have opportunities to participate in philosophical conferences and engage in independent research projects. Additionally, internships and collaborative projects are strongly encouraged, providing real-world experience that complements academic learning.

What You’ll Learn:

Analyze philosophical arguments
Understand ethical theories
Develop critical thinking skills
Explore historical and philosophical texts
Apply logic and reasoning

How You’ll Learn:

Flexible online and on-campus classes
Interactive lectures and discussions
Comprehensive reading assignments
Practical applications in critical thinking
Peer collaboration on projects

Courses

The Certificate in General Philosophy offers students a comprehensive introduction to philosophical thinking and ethical reasoning. Through foundational coursework, the certificate emphasizes the development of analytical and critical thinking skills applicable across disciplines.

Courses are structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in philosophy, equipping students with the skills necessary for both academic and professional success. Some courses include:

PHIL 100: Critical Thinking

The primary aim of the course is to develop awareness about what is involved in reasoning well. The student will learn (1) to sort claims according to the kinds of evidence that could be used to establish their truth, and the kinds of expertise that would be relevant to evaluating this evidence, and (2) to evaluate arguments of various kinds (identify when an argument is being made, what its conclusion is, what the logical relation between premises and conclusion is purported to be, whether the premises are plausible, and whether the conclusion is established).

PHIL 120: Introduction to Philosophy

An introduction to perennial philosophical questions concerning topics such as knowledge, doubt, God, freedom, necessity, good and evil, immortality, time, the cosmos, and the meaning of life, and to some of the most noteworthy attempts to answer them.

PHIL 320: Foundations of Modern Philosophy

A study of topics such as the mind-body problem, the quest for certainty, the justification of governmental authority, and the place of values in a mechanistic world, through selections from the writings of the principal philosophers of the 17th and 18th centuries, such as Hobbes, Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant.

Discover the full Certificate in General Philosophy course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Fort Hays State University’s Certificate in General Philosophy, which emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication, prepares students for success in numerous fields.

Law

The analytical and ethical reasoning skills developed through the certificate are essential for interpreting and applying legal principles. Students who complete this certificate often excel in law school and become proficient attorneys, capable of constructing compelling arguments and making informed legal decisions.

Education

The ability to convey complex philosophical concepts clearly and engage students in critical thinking exercises makes certificate holders valuable educators. Additionally, ethical training equips them to address moral questions in educational settings.

Business

Students who complete the certificate are well-suited for roles that require strategic thinking, ethical leadership, and effective communication. They often succeed in management positions, applying their skills to navigate complex business challenges.

Public Service

Students can pursue careers in policy analysis, public administration, and civic engagement, where they contribute to developing and implementing public policies that address societal issues.

Writing and Journalism

Students who complete the Certificate in General Philosophy are well-prepared for careers in writing and journalism. They can pursue roles as writers, editors, or journalists, where they critically engage with current events and contribute thoughtful, well-articulated content to various media outlets.

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.

Apply

Related Programs

Students interested in the Certificate in General Philosophy might also consider related programs offered by Fort Hays State University, including:

FAQ

Can I complete the Certificate in General Philosophy online?

The Certificate in General Philosophy is available online and on-campus, offering flexibility to accommodate different schedules.

What are the core courses in the Certificate in General Philosophy?

The core courses include PHIL 100 - Critical Thinking, PHIL 120 - Introduction to Philosophy, and PHIL 315 – Classical Greek Philosophy.

What career opportunities are available with this Certificate in General Philosophy?

Career opportunities include roles in law, education, business, public service, and writing or journalism.

How does the Certificate in General Philosophy prepare me for real-world applications?

The Certificate in General Philosophy develops critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical skills, which are valuable in various professional fields.

Are there any prerequisites for this Certificate in General Philosophy?

No specific prerequisites make the certificate accessible to all students interested in philosophy.

How can this Certificate in General Philosophy complement my current studies or career?

The Certificate in General Philosophy enhances critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills, which are beneficial in various fields such as law, business, and education.

How does Fort Hays State University support students in achieving their career goals?

Fort Hays State University offers career counseling, preparation for graduate studies, and personalized academic advising to help students reach their professional objectives.

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.

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Additional Information

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