University of Tulsa

What you'll study

The programme provides a grounding in standard areas of analytic and historical philosophy alongside specialised courses on Chinese philosophical traditions and cultural contexts. Core philosophy modules typically cover logic, epistemology, ethics, metaphysics and the history of Western philosophy; these develop skills in argumentation, close reading and critical analysis.

Chinese Philosophy and Culture units explore Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Chinese Buddhist thought, Neo-Confucianism, and contemporary Chinese intellectual movements. Students study primary texts in translation and, where possible, in the original language, supported by Mandarin language courses and modules in Chinese history, religion and literature to situate philosophical ideas within broader cultural frameworks.

• Introduction to Philosophy and Critical Thinking
• Symbolic Logic or Informal Logic
• Ethics and Political Philosophy
• History of Western Philosophy (ancient, medieval, modern)
• Survey of Chinese Philosophy (Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism)
• Topics in Classical Chinese Texts and Interpretation
• Mandarin Chinese language sequence (elementary to intermediate)
• Comparative Philosophy: East and West
• Chinese Religion, Literature or History elective
• Capstone seminar or senior thesis integrating philosophical methods with Chinese studies

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with a competitive academic record. Typical successful candidates present strong grades in humanities subjects and evidence of ability in critical reading and writing. Admissions may consider standardised test scores where required, letters of recommendation and a personal statement that demonstrates intellectual curiosity and reasons for pursuing philosophy and Chinese studies.

While prior study of Mandarin or Chinese culture is advantageous, it is not always mandatory; placement in language courses will be based on previous study. Mature applicants and those with relevant life or work experience are encouraged to apply; specific departmental prerequisites may be listed in the university’s programme details.

Career prospects

Graduates with a background in philosophy and Chinese studies are prepared for a wide range of careers that value analytical skills, cultural literacy and communication. Common pathways include:

• Further study in graduate programmes (philosophy, Asian studies, law, international relations)
• Education and academic research
• International business, trade and consulting with Asia-focused roles
• Government, diplomacy and international NGOs
• Publishing, journalism and cultural institutions
• Cultural heritage organisations, museums and community outreach
• Technology, policy analysis and roles that demand clear reasoning and cross-cultural competence

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a liberal-arts environment with relatively small classes and close faculty-student interaction, which benefits discussion-based courses in philosophy and text-focused study in Chinese traditions. The university supports interdisciplinary learning, enabling students to combine philosophy with language study, history and religious studies.

Students can take advantage of faculty expertise in comparative and continental topics, opportunities for undergraduate research or a senior thesis, and partnerships that facilitate study abroad or exchange experiences in East Asia. Tulsa’s campus life and regional cultural resources also provide extracurricular forums for language practice, lecture series and community engagement related to Chinese culture and international affairs.