About
This program allows you to earn a Certificate of Proficiency, a qualification that recognizes a focus of philosophical study of values in moral, social and legal contexts. You will gain knowledge of ethical theories which have been influential in shaping our thinking about rights, citizenship, democracy, virtue and our obligations to others.
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
You will develop rigorous, critical thinking about practical issues in ethics, justice and the law. You will explore the fundamentals of ethical theory and its application to contemporary issues and debates such as ethics in technology, scientific research and business, as well as ethical questions pertaining to sexuality, our relations with animals, and medical practice.
PHIL 236.3: Ethics and Technology
An overview of ethical issues related to the impact of modern technology on society, on scientific research, on the activities of corporations and professionals, and how technology affects our understanding of ethical responsibility. Specific topics that may be considered include issues in biotechnology (including genetic engineering and genomic medicine), information technology (including data privacy and the use of encryption technologies), as well as related issues such as intellectual property rights and risk assessment.
PHIL 234: Biomedical Ethics
An examination of contemporary biomedical ethical issues such as the definition of a person, determination of life and death, euthanasia, abortion, prenatal diagnosis and intervention, problems in the physician-patient relationship, reproductive technologies, genetic engineering and accessibility to health care.
PHIL 262: Social and Political Philosophy
An examination of philosophical theories of political organization. Such issues as justice and power, rights, freedom and the public good will be discussed.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
The certificate provides both students already enrolled in a philosophy programme and those who do not wish to complete a full major, but do want to explore the area more deeply, an opportunity to make a substantive commitment to the study of value theory. It also enables students with a strong interest in philosophy but who want to pursue degrees in fields such as Law, Medicine, Business, Education or Journalism to receive a formal acknowledgement of their success in this widely acknowledged and accepted area of study.
Careers
Some career opportunities include:
- Law
- Public policy
- Business administration
- Ethics consultant
- Education
- Journalism and Media
- Non-Governmental Organisations
- Other fields involving social policy issues.
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $746 per 3 credit unit class | $3,611 per 3 credit unit class |
| Student fees | $1,121 per year | $1,121 per year |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.
Program options
The two year Certificate in Ethics, Justice and Law is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science, through the Department of Philosophy. You may earn the certificate on its own, concurrently with a degree, or after having already received a degree from here or another institution.
If you are already enrolled at USask, consult your academic advisor regarding enrolling in this program.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
If you are a current USask student, consult your academic advisor about enrolling in this program.
To apply to this program as a new student, create an admissions account and apply for admission to any undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Science. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $90 CAD. (Effective December 2, the application fee is increasing to $120 CAD.) After you are admitted, declare your plans to the college.
Questions?
If you are interested in more information about this certificate, please contact student-advice@artsandscience.usask.ca