Xavier University

Programme overview

The Graduate Certificate in the American Founding and Constitution is a four-course graduate-level program (12 credits) that uses primary sources and interdisciplinary methods to examine the origins, evolution, and impact of the U.S. Constitution and founding ideas. Courses are offered in online and hybrid formats and the certificate can be completed in as little as one year.

What you'll study

• Core structure: Four courses including a history of the Founding period, a course on debates over the Constitution, and two electives.
• Sample courses and topics: AFAC 551: American Foundations and the Constitution — philosophical foundations, John Locke, Federalists and Anti‑Federalists, drafting/ratification debates, early Supreme Court decisions, and Tocqueville’s observations (Fall 2026, 3 credits). AFAC 550: Philadelphia: The Revolutionary City — primary‑source study of the Revolution and Constitutional Convention with a funded archival visit to Philadelphia (Summer 2026, June 1–21, 3 credits, limited to 12 students). AFAC 552: The History of American Economic Development: From Colonies to Reconstruction — economic foundations, Hamilton vs. Jefferson, economics of slavery, and post‑Civil War effects; a 6‑week hybrid course with weekly online meetings (Summer 2026, 3 credits). AFAC 553: Congress — constitutional debates about Congress’s role, interbranch relations, and internal congressional mechanisms; a 12‑week online course with weekly meetings and small group sessions (Summer 2026, 3 credits).
• Methods: Discussion-based seminars centered on primary texts such as The Federalist Papers, the Constitution, landmark Supreme Court cases, and Tocqueville’s Democracy in America; interdisciplinary readings from history, philosophy, political science, economics, and law.

Entry requirements

The source text does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective applicants are asked to contact the program for enrollment requirements, deadlines, and tuition information (contact: Dr. Mack Mariani at marianim@xavier.edu).

Career prospects

The program is tailored for educators who want deeper curricular or classroom expertise, policy professionals and legal scholars seeking historical context for constitutional interpretation, and individuals interested in civic engagement or the philosophical principles underlying American democracy. The curriculum supports roles in teaching, policy analysis, curriculum development, and scholarship focused on constitutional history and governance.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Tuition scholarships are available, including some that may cover full tuition for a class. The AFAC 550 Philadelphia field experience is funded for housing, meals, and onsite educational experiences thanks to a donation; students remain responsible for transportation to Philadelphia and incidental expenses. Students in the program receive priority access to continuing education units (CEUs) offered by the program.