St. John's University

What you'll study

This programme blends core courses in analytic and continental philosophy with specialised modules exploring Chinese intellectual history and cultural practice. You will study classical and modern thinkers — such as Confucian, Daoist and Buddhist traditions — alongside contemporary Chinese philosophical debates, comparative ethics, and hermeneutics. Coursework typically includes introductions to logic and critical thinking, history of Western philosophy, readings in Chinese philosophy, philosophy of language and mind, and courses on religion and society in East Asia.

• Core philosophy modules: critical thinking, introductory logic, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics.
• Chinese philosophy modules: Confucian thought, Daoism, Chinese Buddhist philosophy, modern Chinese intellectual history.
• Language and texts: elementary and intermediate Mandarin, classical Chinese for reading primary texts, translation practice.
• Comparative and applied topics: comparative ethics, cross-cultural philosophy, philosophy of religion, contemporary Chinese political thought.
• Research and capstone: methods in philosophical research, supervised essays or a final-year dissertation drawing on primary Chinese or multilingual sources.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical offers expect strong achievement in humanities or social-science subjects; evidence of critical reading and writing skills is important. Where applicable, A-levels, IB diploma points, or equivalent qualifications are considered. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through accepted language tests or prior study in English.

Prior study of Chinese or another modern language is advantageous but not always required; candidates with demonstrated academic curiosity about Asian cultures, philosophy, or language studies are encouraged to apply. Admissions normally take into account the applicant’s personal statement and references, and may invite an interview or sample writing.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong analytical, writing and cross-cultural communication skills valued across sectors. Common career paths include:

• Further academic study — master’s and doctoral work in philosophy, religious studies, Asian studies, or related fields.
• Teaching and education, including language teaching and curriculum development.
• International affairs, diplomacy, cultural institutions and NGOs where deep knowledge of Chinese culture and thought is an asset.
• Publishing, journalism, communications and research roles that require clear argumentation and intercultural literacy.
• Public policy, ethics advisory, and roles in business or consultancy that engage with East Asia.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s offers a liberal-arts environment that emphasises close faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary study, allowing philosophy students to combine rigorous theoretical training with language and area studies. The university’s course structure supports small seminars for close textual work alongside language instruction and opportunities for independent research. Students benefit from institutional resources such as library collections, language learning facilities, and academic advising tailored to international and comparative programmes.

Additionally, the programme is designed to encourage practical engagement — through internships, study-abroad opportunities, and public lectures — so graduates emerge prepared for advanced study or careers that bridge scholarship and real-world intercultural engagement.