Description
Course Overview
The part-time Certificate in Political Philosophy aims to provide learners with an overview of the classic topics in political philosophy and the major thinkers in the western political tradition, and support learners to examine the influence of these philosophical concepts influence on contemporary political structures. It also aims to deepen learner understanding of the links between into social, scientific, and philosophical subjects.
This course is divided into two parts. The first part examines classic topics in political philosophy, from the historical figures in Greek philosophy to social contract theories of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, as well as key critiques. The second part of the course will explore issues within contemporary political philosophy, such as equality, human rights, and the politics of immigration with reference to contemporary case studies.
Credits: 5 ECTS
Validated by South East Technological University
Course Practicalities
Course is delivered via a two-hour online lecture every second Saturday (9.30am – 11.30am) and 6-hours self-directed learning with an on-campus workshop scheduled during the semester. There will also be an on-site orientation before week one (date TBC).
Classes commence on 24th January 2026, with remaining classes scheduled for: 07/02/2026, 28/02/2026, 14/03/2026, 28/03/2026 and 18/04/2026.
Delivery mode: On-site: 17% | Synchronous online: 66% | Asynchronous online: 17%. See our Blended Learning FAQs for more details.
Course Content
The course will cover the following areas:
- Introduction to Political Philosophy and Philosophical Inquiry such as the origins of and development of Political Philosophy; linking philosophy, social and scientific disciplines in the context of politics and sociology.
- Theorists and Concepts such as Plato and the Republic; Social Contract theories of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
- Key themes in Political Philosophy such as human nature; natural rights; sovereignty; the Social Contract; notions of freedom and equality; political membership; critiques of political philosophy.
- Applying Political Philosophy to the Contemporary World such as immigration; open borders; distributive justice; citizenship – inclusion and exclusion.
Assessment
Learners will be assessed via In-Class Quizzes (30%) and a Research Project (70%).
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be resident in Ireland and at least 18 years old at course commencement.
Contact Details for Further Information
Email: slo@carlowcollege.ie
Please note our refund policy as follows
Carlow College will not issue any refunds for Certificate Programmes owing to the short duration of these programme, as per the Fees & Refund Policy
However, 100% refund will be issued if course is cancelled due to insufficient numbers.
Bookings close on Wednesday, 7th January 2026 (or when places are filled).
Data Protection
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