Certificate in Foundations of Western Civilization

Our students become knowledgeable in Western culture, thought and society, past and present, and are prepared to launch careers in business, diplomatic service, government, publishing, the arts and academia.

This certificate program is designed for students interested in a rigorous grounding in Western culture, focusing on languages, science, the arts, philosophy, law and government in their ancient, medieval and modern forms. Students engage in critical reflection of traditions, languages and issues that characterize the cultures of Western civilization, with a goal of helping the people of Colorado and the United States understand and appreciate their past, as well establish a free and creative future.

  • Explore the foundations of Western thought and society
  • Gain an interdisciplinary education in Western past and present
  • Complement your undergraduate studies with a certificate

Experience an interdisciplinary curriculum with a holistic approach. Classes are offered in a variety of disciplines, including art history, classics, English, German, history, humanities, Italian, philosophy, political science and religious studies.

Gain learning opportunities through our on-campus Bruce D. Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization, which is committed to research, debate and dialogue about fundamental ideals of our time.

Connect with visiting scholars through events and lectures held during the year.

Be successful.

Be prepared to meet the needs of our diverse and increasingly global 21st-century society with targeted knowledge of Western civilization.

 

Broaden your employment possibilities in combination with the skills you learn in your major area of study

 

Analyst, journalist, correspondent, writer, business development manager and historian are common opportunities to apply this certificate

 

Work in business, diplomatic service, government, publishing, the arts or academia

Academic Plan & Requirements

The program is open to all degree-seeking undergraduate students but is particularly relevant to those in cultural studies, the humanities, social sciences, and professional fields such as business and law. 

The certificate requires the completion of 24 credit hours, with one course taken from each of three core clusters: 

  • Literature
  • History
  • Science

And elective courses in:

  • Art
  • Literature
  • History
  • Ideas
  • Politics

Community & Involvement

We offer students many opportunities to network with peers and faculty, further their studies, and get the most out of their undergraduate experience.