Certificate of Graduate Studies in Political Theory
The Certificate in Political Theory, offered online and on campus, will engage you in reflection on the nature and ends of government and how government ought to function. You may earn a 12-credit (4 course) certificate of graduate studies in a targeted discipline, either to expand your degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. Through this program, you will systematically study the history of political thought, including thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, Machiavelli, Luther and Calvin, John Locke, Adam Smith, the American founders, Hegel, Marx, Oakeshott, Rawls and others — all from a biblical perspective.
- Develop analytical and historical skills as you examine questions such as “What is justice?” and “What is the best regime?”
- Understand principles of economics, work and wealth, interest and debt, and the role of the government in the economy.
- Explore Islamic political thought vs. biblical law and Anglo-American constitutionalism in relationship to lawful oaths, gender roles, marriage, capital punishment and other topics.
This certificate may help advance your career in public service, foreign service, or international relations by equipping you as an expert in your field.
The Certificate of Graduate Studies offers an excellent opportunity for those not requiring a master’s degree. This option is often used by those needing continuing education credits or for those who wish to complement their existing degree with additional training for career advancement. Upon completing the certificate, students have the option of applying to the master’s program, and if accepted, all courses taken toward the certificate transfer in.
2020-2021 Semester Check-In Deadlines:
All new students are expected to check-in for the semester 2 weeks prior to the session start date. Students should apply, be accepted, enroll in their first courses, and confirm a plan to pay for their courses prior to this date.
| Session | Semester Check-In | Session Start Date |
| Session A | Friday, August 14 | Monday, August 24 |
| Session M | Friday, September 11 | Monday, September 21 |
| Session B | Friday, October 16 | Monday, October 26 |
| Session C | Tuesday, January 5 | Monday, January 11 |
| Session T | Friday, January 29 | Monday, February 8 |
| Session D | Friday, March 5 | Monday, March 15 |
| Session E | Friday, April 30 | Monday, May 10 |
| Session F | Friday, June 11 | Monday, June 21 |
Application Process:
1. Complete Your Online Application
Note: If you are unable to complete our application due to a disability, please contact our Admissions Office for assistance.
2. Pay Your $25 Application Fee
Pay the $25 nonrefundable application fee by check or money order mailed to Regent University, Enrollment Support Services, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464.
3. Provide Your Unofficial College Transcripts
We require an official transcript indicating successful completion of a bachelor’s degree program. Regent has partnered with DocuSign to offer a secure, electronic way for your previous college transcripts to be delivered on your behalf once you have registered for your first semester.
If you have an unofficial copy of your college transcripts, please email those to apply@regent.edu using the subject line: RSG Certificate Application Pieces.
If you are an international student, or you earned college credit at non-US institutions, please submit your transcripts for a third-party course-by-course evaluation. Learn more and find recommended agencies.
4. Complete an Admissions Questionnaire Regarding Your Professional Goals and Interests
5. International Applicants
Visit the International Students Admissions page for additional admission requirements and to determine if you qualify as an international student.
Note: All items submitted as part of the application process become the property of Regent University and cannot be returned.
2019-20 Tuition Rates
| Degree Level / Program | Cost Per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
Certificate Program | $675 per credit (In-state & Out-of-state) |
Student Fees Per Semester
| University Services Fee (On-Campus Students) | $700 |
| University Services Fee (Online Students) | $550 |
2020-21 Tuition Rates
| Degree Level / Program | Cost Per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
Certificate Program | $675 per credit (In-state & Out-of-state) |
Student Fees Per Semester
| University Services Fee (On-Campus Students) | $750 |
| University Services Fee (Online Students) | $600 |
*Rates are subject to change at any time.
Whether you are a prospective student or a current student, your questions matter. Please take a few moments to skim our Frequently Asked Questions. If you cannot find the answer to your question, please contact us.