Ethics (CERT)
Gain practical tools to navigate complex challenges in any field. You’ll study ethical theory and apply it to real-world issues like workplace culture, compliance and leadership. Graduates gain a credential that signals readiness for careers demanding integrity, sound judgment and trust-building across industries.
This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2025-Spring 2026 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information.
Certificate in Ethics
Unit: College of Arts and Sciences (AS)
Department: Philosophy
Academic Plan Code(s): ETHICUG
Program Information
Many professions from tech to health care realize that ethics cannot be taken for granted but must be designed into organizations. From avoiding lawsuits and whistleblower complaints, to complying with the law, to maintaining quality organizational relations and relationships with clients, ethics is essential for firms and agencies in the 21st century. The certificate in ethics prepares graduates for ethical leadership roles in whatever field they enter. The program will train students in modes of ethical reasoning and in how to apply their ethical reasoning skills in the workplace and in daily life. The certificate provides graduates with a credential indicating their preparation for ethics compliance and other modes of demonstrating ethical practice in the professions. The program is also of benefit to students with personal and/or intellectual interests in the study of ethics and moral reasoning.
Undergraduate students who are currently enrolled at UofL must be in good standing to enter the certificate in ethics program. First time freshmen, transfer, and postbaccalaureate applicants must meet the regular admission standards of the College of Arts and Sciences. This undergraduate certificate program may be completed as a stand-alone credential; however, it will not be eligible for federal financial aid. Students enrolled in degree programs and pursuing this certificate may be eligible for federal financial aid.
Students are required to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in the certificate, with no more than one grade of C in classes counted towards the certificate.
Program Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Students must complete one of the following courses: | 3 | |
PHIL 321 | Ethics | |
PHIL 521 | Ethical Theory | |
| Select 9 hours from the course list below: | 9 | |
CSE 311 | Ethics, Social, and Legal Aspects on the Electronic Frontier | |
CJ 597 | Ethics in Criminal Justice - WR | |
COMM 506 | Ethical Problems in Communication - CUE, WR | |
NURS 388 | Global Health: Disparities and Social Determinants - P2, SB | |
NURS 493 | Nursing Leadership and Management | |
PHIL 222 | Contemporary Moral Problems - AH | |
PHIL 225 | Business Ethics | |
PHIL 318 | Feminist Philosophy - AH, P1 | |
PHIL 319 | Philosophy of Race and Racism - AH, P1 | |
PHIL 323 | Medical Ethics | |
PHIL 325 | Feminist Medical Ethics - AH, P1 | |
PHIL 327 | Philosophy of Disability | |
PHIL 328 | Environmental Ethics | |
PHIL 360 | Technology and Human Values - AH | |
PHIL 427 | Philosophy and the Environment | |
PHIL 459 | Philosophy of Technology | |
PHIL/PAS 516 | African-American Philosophy | |
PHIL 535 | Political Philosophy | |
PHIL 580 | Foundations of Bioethics | |
PHIL 581 | Current Controversies in Health Care Ethics | |
PHIL/WGST 582 | Health and Social Justice | |
PHIL 583 | Race, Medicine, and Health | |
PHIL 590 | Philosophical Foundations of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion | |
PPE 300 | Introduction to Philosophy, Politics, and Economics - SB | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 12 | |
At least three (3) semester hours of the requirements for a certificate must be successfully completed while enrolled in the University of Louisville.