Philosophy Certificates

Want to develop a concentrated area of expertise in Philosophy?  Check out our Certificate programs!

Certificate in Global Philosophical Traditions

A basic certificate for SJSU students in any major

As our global world becomes more connected, understanding each other and ourselves means understandingthe diverse ways that different philosophical traditions tackle questions of enduring importance, including what it means to be human, what kind of world we want to build, and how to share that world with each other.

Just four courses (12 units):

PHIL 120 ("Comparative Philosophy: Theory & Practice"):

to acquire the tools to put different philosophical approaches in conversation with each other.

Two World Philosophies courses, chosen from:

PHIL 104 ("Asian Philosophy")

PHIL 118 ("Latin American Philosophy")

PHIL 119 ("Africana Philosophy & Culture")

One Continental Philosophies & Pragmatism elective, chosen from:

PHIL 112 ("American Philosophy")

PHIL 113 ("Existentialism & Phenomenology")

PHIL 121 ("Philosophy & Feminism")

The pay-off:

A stronger grasp of the different things philosophy can be and do, plus skills in cultural understanding that are increasingly valued on the global job market.

Catalog description for Certificate in Global Philosophical Traditions

Certificate in Ethics of Science and Emerging Technologies

An advanced certificate for SJSU students and working professionals

Now more than ever, the world needs more people with a strong grasp of the ethical dimensions of science and emerging technologies, and the skills to help researchers, technologists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to engage in better ethical decision-making.

Just four courses (12 units):

PHIL 160 ("Philosophy of Science"):

to deepen your understanding of how scientific knowledge is built and tested.

PHIL 132 ("Ethical Theory"):

to explore lenses for ethical evaluation and strategies for ethical decision-making.

Applied Philosophy & Ethics elective:

to take a deep-dive into philosophical and ethical dimensions of a particular area like minds, medicine, computers, technology, scientific practice, or the environment.

Advanced Ethics (PHIL 292) or Epistemology (PHIL 291):

for graduate-level engagement with the ethical or knowledge-building dimensions of science and technology.

The pay-off:

Strong ethical decision-making skills and the ability to apply them as you navigate ethical issues in science and technology.

Catalog description for Certificate in Ethics of Science and Emerging Technologies

To apply or learn more:

Contact the SJSU Philosophy Department (philosophy@sjsu.edu)