Certificate in Catholic Philosophy

“… Philosophy shows in different modes and forms that the desire for truth is part of human nature itself. It is an innate property of human reason to ask why things are as they are.”
– Pope St John Paul II, Fides et Ratio, 3, 5

The Certificate in Catholic Philosophy is designed to offer a fundamental introduction to the practice of philosophy as it is realised within the Catholic intellectual tradition. This online programme, which is delivered through both online (live) and self-directed (self-paced) learning modes, comprises five courses totalling 15 credits. It provides a comprehensive exploration of philosophical enquiry, enabling you to cultivate a lifelong commitment to wisdom and truth.

Required Courses

CP 601: Introduction to Catholic Philosophy

This course places you at the heart of philosophical study as developed and practised within the Catholic Intellectual Tradition. It examines the distinct methods of philosophical investigation and the manner in which wisdom is defined, attained, and integrated into daily life. In addition, you will learn to distinguish between philosophy, the sciences, and theology, appreciating the complementary and illuminative role that philosophy plays in enriching theological education.
(3 Credits)

CP 605: Beyond Deception – Logic and the Freedom of the Mind

This course explores the principles of logical reasoning and the capacity of the human mind to discern truth beyond mere appearances. By delving into logical frameworks and investigative methodologies, you will learn to free your intellect from common errors and deceptive practices, thereby cultivating a robust intellectual autonomy.
(3 Credits)

CP 621: Philosophy of Nature

Focusing on ancient and medieval perspectives, this course examines historical understandings of nature, change, space, time, purpose, and chance, alongside the foundational principles that underpin these views. Together with the study of logic, it establishes the essential vocabulary and conceptual framework fundamental to the Catholic philosophical tradition.
(3 Credits)

CP 631: Metaphysics

This course delves into the exploration of existence, reality, and the nature of being. It invites you to engage with the fundamental questions concerning the structure of all that exists, challenging you to consider what lies beyond the physical realm and how such understanding informs our view of reality.
(3 Credits)

Elective Options

As part of the Certificate in Catholic Philosophy, you may select one approved elective from the following options:

CP 611: History of Philosophy (Ancient)

This survey course traces the origins of philosophical thought from the pre-Socratics through to Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and on to the Cynics, Skeptics, Epicureans, Stoics, and Neoplatonists. It addresses the significant problems raised by figures such as Heraclitus, Parmenides, Socrates and Plato, provides an extensive overview of Aristotle’s philosophy, and examines the enduring themes that have shaped post-Aristotelian thought.
(3 Credits)

CP 612: History of Philosophy (Medieval)

Beginning with St Augustine and following the rise of Scholasticism to its culmination, this course places particular emphasis on the contributions of St Augustine, Boethius, St Anselm, St Bonaventure, St Thomas Aquinas, John Duns Scotus, and William of Ockham. It explores the interrelationship between faith and reason, as well as the evolution of metaphysical, anthropological, and ethical theories that have prepared the way for modern philosophical perspectives.
(3 Credits)

CP 613: History of Philosophy (Modern and Contemporary)

This course surveys the key philosophers of the modern era, including figures from the rationalist, empiricist, and Kantian traditions beginning with Descartes, and extending through to major thinkers of the nineteenth century. It further introduces you to prominent twentieth-century philosophers who responded to modern themes, and examines the two dominant schools of contemporary thought: analytic philosophy, and phenomenology coupled with existentialism.
(3 Credits)

CP 614: Epistemology

Investigating the nature of knowledge, this course questions if—and how—the human mind can apprehend reality as it truly is. It explores the dual aspects of human cognition (normative and empirical, or rational and sensual), examines the various types and degrees of knowing, and considers diverse approaches to truth, belief, and error, alongside their underlying metaphysical assumptions.
(3 Credits)

CP 641: Philosophy of God

This course considers the intellectual journey of the human mind towards understanding the existence and attributes of God. It discusses whether God’s existence can be demonstrated and investigates how language might represent divine attributes without resorting purely to metaphor or simplistic anthropomorphism. In addition, it addresses the problem of evil within the context of an omnipotent and benevolent God, and considers issues of secondary causation, drawing significantly on the writings of St Thomas Aquinas.
(3 Credits)

CP 651: Philosophical Anthropology

This course examines the philosophical discourse surrounding the human person, drawing on the insights of the Socratic, Platonic, Aristotelian, Augustinian, and Thomistic traditions, as well as their integration into modern conceptions of human existence—particularly the personalism of St John Paul II. Key themes include the nature of body and soul, the articulation of their relationship, the distinction between animality and rationality, and aspects of human cognition, free will, affective life, and the social and spiritual dimensions of being. The course also considers the concept of the human person created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27) and the question of human survival after death.
(3 Credits)

CP 661: Philosophical Ethics

This course lays out the key components necessary for a thorough and unified exploration of the moral life. It draws upon the intellectual legacies of the Socratic, Platonic, Aristotelian, Augustinian, and Thomistic traditions to address the human quest for happiness and the means to achieve it. Topics include the interplay between virtue, vice, and habit in character formation, the nature of free choice and the roles of reason and will, the significance of conscience in ethical decision-making, and the influence of society and friendship on personal fulfilment. The course also debates whether a secular approach to happiness is sufficient or if true contentment must be realised within a religious context.
(3 Credits)

The Certificate in Catholic Philosophy offers an immersive experience that equips you with the intellectual tools to critically engage with profound philosophical questions and to integrate these insights into your personal and professional life. Embrace the opportunity to enrich your understanding, challenge your assumptions, and deepen your commitment to the pursuit of truth.