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The undergraduate Civic Literacy certificate allows students to explore the foundational texts and principles of American government. Through the study of the Constitution, political institutions, and key historical debates, students will become more thoughtful and informed citizens, better prepared for careers in public service, law, education, and more.

Why Study Civic Literacy at UWF?

Understanding the principles and debates that shape American government is essential for informed citizenship and meaningful civic engagement. The undergraduate Civic Literacy certificate provides students with a rich foundation in the ideas, institutions, and controversies that define the American political tradition.

This program equips students to think critically about the American constitutional order and the role of citizens within it. Whether you aspire to work in public service, law, education, or simply want to deepen your understanding of the U.S. political system, studying civic literacy fosters the analytical tools and historical perspective necessary to navigate and contribute to American democracy.

What You Will Learn

Students will examine the philosophical roots and institutional structures that define the American political tradition. Through a combination of historical analysis and contemporary application, they will gain a strong understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the development of American democratic ideals, and the ways in which government responds to public input and societal change. The program explores the evolution of political thought in the United States, highlighting influential thinkers and ideas that continue to shape national identity and policy.

Students will have the opportunity to focus their studies on specific areas of interest within the broader civic landscape. These may include the roles of executive and legislative institutions, judicial interpretation of civil liberties and federalism, and the ongoing impact of foundational legal doctrines. Other topics allow for deeper engagement with issues such as freedom of speech and religion, constitutional debates from the founding era, and the influence of American political thought on global affairs.

Upon completion, students will possess a well-rounded and analytically grounded perspective on American civic life, equipping them to engage thoughtfully in public discourse, policy analysis, or further academic study.

UWF offers classes through various delivery methods, including face-to-face, hybrid, and online. Though UWF makes every effort to provide on-campus classes in face-to-face programs, there is a possibility that some classes will have limited availability and may be offered online only. For more information, review the modes of delivery and instructional methods.