Graduate Certificate in History of Philosophy

School of Philosophy & Theology

Students in this program will study the major periods in the History of Philosophy. They will learn some of Philosophy’s enduring questions, working in the community with others to engage with thinkers across History. Graduates will learn how ideas evolve and how they relate to society. They will have a strong foundation for further graduate study in Philosophy should they choose to continue.

  • Why study this degree?

    This program comprises four courses covering the History of Philosophy from its ancient pre-Socratic roots to the present day. It is the only program in Australia that ensures that medieval philosophy is not overlooked, so that students have a strong sense not only of how modernity emerged, but also about key debates on the relationship between faith and reason.

    Modern philosophy is studied in-depth, and students learn how the main distinctions made during that period affect contemporary philosophy. Covering both the analytic and the continental traditions of philosophy, the Contemporary Philosophy course gives students the tools to understand their current age. They will be well-prepared to continue their studies in Philosophy should they choose to do so.

    This program can be taken as a stand-alone award. Students can also take these courses as a first step into a Graduate Diploma or Master of Arts in Philosophy, or Master of Liberal Arts.

  • Program summary

    The Graduate Certificate in the History of Philosophy comprises four courses covering the four eras: Ancient, Medieval, Modern and Contemporary Philosophy.

    More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions pages Fremantle Sydney.

    Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  • Entry requirements

    Academic requirements for this program are outlined on our admission requirements page. All applicants need to satisfy minimum requirements, including those relating to age and English Language Proficiency.

  • Learning outcomes

    Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in History of Philosophy, graduates will be able to:

    1. Articulate an advanced body of knowledge, with depth in the underlying principles and concepts in the discipline of philosophy as a basis for independent lifelong learning
    2. Critically analyse, consolidate, and synthesise knowledge
    3. Demonstrate advanced technical skills to a broad understanding of knowledge with depth in philosophy
    4. Exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence
    5. Communicate and present a clear, coherent, and independent exposition of philosophical knowledge and concepts; and
    6. Apply philosophical reflection, knowledge, and skills to demonstrate autonomy, well-developed theoretical and practical judgement, and ethical responsibility.
  • Career Opportunities

    This program will prepare teachers who would like to delivery philosophy courses, particularly to high school students. It will also equip graduates with the critical thinking skills and adeptness in communication that are crucial in any workplace.

  • Real-world experience

    Students will learn with academics who are active researchers in the History of Philosophy. They will become equipped with the knowledge that is fundamental to philosophy as a discipline, and with the research skills that they can apply not only to philosophy but also to other jobs that require any form of research. There are no practicum requirements for this program.

  • Fees and costs

    This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:


    Domestic Fee-Paying
    A domestic fee-paying place is a place at university where the student is responsible for the full cost the program.

    Eligible domestic fee-paying students may apply for the FEE-HELP loan scheme which assists eligible fee-paying students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your FEE-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.


    For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

  • More information

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    For more information, please contact our Prospective Students Office.

    Fremantle and Broome
    Phone: +61 8 9433 0533
    Email: future@nd.edu.au
    Sydney and Melbourne
    Phone: +61 2 8204 4404
    Email: sydney@nd.edu.au

    All international enquiries should contact the International Students Office on international@nd.edu.au.


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