Roger Williams University

What you'll study

The programme is anchored in core courses in Western philosophy (logic, ethics, epistemology) while offering a sequence of specialised courses on Chinese philosophical traditions and cultural context. You will study classical thinkers and texts such as Confucius, Mencius, Laozi and Zhuangzi, as well as Chinese Buddhist thought and later Neo-Confucian developments.

• Core philosophy modules: Introduction to Philosophy, Critical Thinking and Logic, Ethics, History of Western Philosophy, Philosophy of Mind or Epistemology.
• Chinese philosophy modules: Early Chinese Thought, Confucian Ethics and Political Philosophy, Daoist Philosophy, Chinese Buddhist Philosophy, Later Chinese Thought.
• Language and textual study: Elementary and intermediate Chinese language courses, Classical Chinese readings for philosophical texts, translation and textual analysis.
• Comparative and contextual courses: Comparative Ethics (East-West), Philosophy of Religion in East Asia, Modern Chinese Intellectual History, and courses connecting philosophy with literature, art and social institutions.
• Research and capstone: Research methods in philosophy, senior seminar or honours thesis focused on a topic in Chinese philosophy and culture, and opportunities for independent study.
• Enrichment: Electives in Asian studies, history, religious studies and political science; study abroad options in East Asia; internship placements in cultural organisations or community education.

Entry requirements

Admission to the BA in Philosophy with a Chinese focus is through Roger Williams University's undergraduate admissions process. Typical applicants present a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in humanities and social sciences. Admissions consideration includes academic transcripts, a personal statement, and one or more letters of recommendation. Standardised test scores are considered where submitted but are not the sole basis for admission.

Recommended preparation includes coursework in English, history or language studies. For applicants whose first language is not English, demonstrated English proficiency through accepted tests or comparable qualifications is required. Students with prior study of Chinese or another East Asian language are encouraged to note this on their application; placement in language courses is determined after admission.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong analytic, writing and cross-cultural communication skills valued across many sectors. Career paths commonly followed by alumni include:

• Education and academia — teaching, curriculum development, or graduate study in philosophy, Asian studies or related fields.
• International relations and diplomacy — policy work, cultural affairs, and roles in consular or multinational organisations.
• Public sector and non-profit — programme development, advocacy, community engagement and intercultural outreach.
• Business and translation — roles in international business, cultural consultancy, publishing, and translation/localisation services.
• Law and public policy — many graduates pursue law school or careers that prize careful reasoning and ethical analysis.

The programme’s emphasis on language and area knowledge also supports careers connected to East Asia, including museum work, cultural heritage organisations and media.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers this programme within a liberal arts environment that emphasises small classes and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary curriculum that links philosophy with language training, history and religious studies, enabling a rounded understanding of Chinese thought in cultural context.

The university’s location in Rhode Island gives convenient access to internship and cultural opportunities in nearby Providence and Boston, while study abroad partnerships and experiential learning options support immersive language and research experiences in East Asia. Students also have access to campus advising for honours projects and career development tailored to humanities graduates.