Core Texts and Ideas Certificate
The certificate program in core texts and ideas is designed to provide a coherent path through the University’s core curriculum with an integrated, interdisciplinary sequence of courses on great works of philosophy, literature, science, and the arts that emphasizes debates about fundamental questions of enduring human concern. The program provides a grounding in the major ideas that have shaped the Western world and gives students the opportunity to study Eastern works as well. Students complete courses in four required areas and two elective areas. The four required areas are the philosophy and literature of the ancient world, especially Greece; major religious texts and their interpreters; the history of political philosophy; and the principles that formed the basis for the founding of the United States. Elective areas include philosophy, the arts, history, literature, and the history and philosophy of science and mathematics.
Total Hours Required: 18
Requirements
Requirements are listed in the table below. Additional requirements may follow the table, so be sure to read the entire page. Some required courses listed below may also satisfy General Education requirements, including Core Curriculum. Students should also review the University's Undergraduate Minor and Certificate Requirements and Policies.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Hours chosen from: (or approved alternatives as listed on the CTI Certificate Plan) | 12 | |
| Introduction to Ancient Greece | ||
| Classics of Social and Political Thought | ||
| Topics in World Religions: Traditions and Texts | ||
| Constitutional Principles: Core Texts | ||
| Hours chosen from: CTI (or other courses chosen from a list of approved electives) | 6 | |
| College Requirements - Liberal Arts | ||
| Undergraduate Minor and Certificate Requirements and Policies | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Additional Requirements and Policy
- The Certificate Plan and list of approved electives for each semester are available from the academic advisor in the Thomas Jefferson Center for the Study of Core Texts and Ideas.
- All courses must be taken on the letter-grade basis.
- The certificate program requires 18 semester hours of coursework, including at least six hours of upper-division coursework and at least 12 hours completed in residence.