University of Alabama

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in core areas of Western and comparative philosophy while providing specialised study of Chinese philosophical traditions and cultural contexts. Year‑one courses typically introduce logic, critical thinking, and the history of Western philosophy alongside introductory courses in Chinese language and an overview of Chinese culture and history.

In later years you can expect modules such as:

• History of Chinese Philosophy – major figures and movements including Confucianism, Daoism, Mohism and Chinese Buddhist thought.
• Classical Chinese Texts – reading and interpretation of primary sources in translation and, at advanced stages, in the original language.
• Comparative Ethics and Political Philosophy – comparative study of moral and political theories across Chinese and Western traditions.
• Logic and Argumentation – formal and informal reasoning skills that support textual interpretation and philosophical analysis.
• Chinese Language (Mandarin) – progressive language instruction from beginner to advanced levels to support engagement with contemporary and historical materials.
• Philosophy Research Methods and Capstone Project – training in research techniques and completion of a supervised honours essay or project linking philosophical inquiry with Chinese cultural studies.

The curriculum emphasises close textual study, critical analysis, and developing the ability to situate ideas within broader historical and social contexts. Students are encouraged to take relevant electives in history, religious studies, Asian studies and linguistics, and to pursue study‑abroad or summer programmes in China where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent and meet the University of Alabama's undergraduate admission standards. Typical UK applicants present A‑level qualifications (or recognised alternatives) with good grades across academic subjects; international applicants submit comparable secondary credentials. The programme values demonstrated ability in critical reading and writing. Prior study of a foreign language is beneficial but not usually mandatory.

Admission requires submission of transcripts and standard application materials. Depending on your educational system, additional materials such as personal statements or letters of recommendation may strengthen an application. Prospective students who wish to focus on language study should indicate this in their application and may be asked to take a placement test for Mandarin.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong analytical, communication and cross‑cultural skills that are valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Education and academia — teaching, further postgraduate research in philosophy, Asian studies or related fields.
• International relations and diplomacy — roles that require cultural literacy and critical thinking.
• Public policy, government and non‑profit organisations — policy analysis, programme development and advocacy.
• Business and consulting — cross‑cultural management, market research and roles requiring clear argumentation and ethical assessment.
• Publishing, journalism and cultural institutions — writing, curation and translation work connected to Chinese culture and thought.

Many graduates also use the BA as preparation for professional programmes such as law or business, or continue to postgraduate study in philosophy, religious studies or East Asian studies.

Why study at University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a liberal arts environment with small‑group teaching in upper‑level philosophy seminars and access to language instruction through its language and area studies provision. Students benefit from faculty who teach both analytic and historical approaches to philosophy and who pursue research in comparative and non‑Western traditions.

Undergraduates have opportunities for honours research, interdisciplinary collaboration with history and languages departments, and experiential learning through internships in the region or study‑away options. The campus community provides student societies and events focused on philosophy and Asian cultures, helping students to build practical skills and professional networks while deepening their understanding of Chinese intellectual traditions.