Analytical Reasoning, Certificate

(Code 400-602)

For advising, contact the Philosophy and Religious Studies Department.

The Analytical Reasoning Certificate is for students in a variety of majors and minors, especially for students interested in a career in the law, as well as for students who are interested in Philosophy but for whom a philosophy major or minor might be impractical.  The Analytical Reasoning Certificate is a natural complement to any program of study outside of Philosophy.

Students will complete a minimum of 15 credits, using the guidelines below, and write a reflection essay upon completion of the courses.
At least one of the following courses, but no more than two may be taken:
PHIL 150
Logic and Critical Thinking
PHIL 250
Symbolic Logic
MATH 246
Elementary Statistics
Remaining credits from other PHIL courses, with at least six credits at the 300-level or above
With advisor approval the following may be applied to the certificate:
Up to three credits from Independent Study or Directed Studies courses
Additional relevant courses

NOTE:  Courses applied to the certificate cannot be applied to the student's major.  Students cannot pursue the Philosophy Major and Analytical Reasoning Certificate to meet graduation requirements for completing a first and second degree program.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students completing this program will be expected to meet the following learning outcomes:

  • Employ the tools of formal and informal logic to identify, construct, analyze, evaluate, and respond to arguments. 
  • Analyze ethical, social, and cultural issues with objectivity and open-mindedness 
  • Clearly articulate ideas and arguments in writing and speech. 
  • Engage in self-reflection and achieve greater self-understanding, exhibiting openness to alternative possibilities and conceptual frameworks