Post-baccalaureate Certificate in Philosophy

San Jose State University

The Philosophy Post-baccalaureate Certificate enables postgraduate students with diverse backgrounds to gain intermediate knowledge of at least one philosophical sub-discipline. It also leads them to strengthen their skills in analytical and critical writing, ethical decision-making, pedagogy, and research literacy. By doing so, it complements students’ prior studies and prepares them for professional positions, which require strong analytical and ethical skills (e.g., policy analyst, ethical counselor, community college teacher or speechwriter). Additionally, this program also allows students time to carefully consider pursuing a Philosophy MA degree through the completion of advanced coursework and meetings with philosophy faculty. We expect most students to complete the certificate over the course of two semesters. Students who wish to continue towards completion of the Philosophy master’s degree should transfer into the program before their third semester.