University of Mount Union

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme brings together courses in Western and Chinese philosophy, classical texts, modern Chinese thought, language study and cultural studies. Students normally follow a curriculum that balances core philosophy training with China-focused content and language practice.

• Core philosophy foundations: logic, epistemology, ethics, and philosophy of mind to provide analytical tools and argumentative skills.
• Classical Chinese thought: close study of primary texts and translations from Confucianism, Daoism and early Chinese legalist and Mohist traditions.
• Buddhist philosophy in East Asia: historical development and comparative study of Mahayana schools as they influenced Chinese intellectual life.
• Modern and contemporary Chinese thought: 19th–21st century intellectual movements, reform and revolutionary thought, and contemporary philosophical debates.
• Language and culture: sequential Mandarin Chinese language study focused on reading classical and modern texts alongside courses in Chinese history, literature, religion and arts.
• Methodology and research: courses in comparative philosophy, hermeneutics, translation theory and research methods culminating in a senior capstone or honours thesis.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for study abroad, internships with cultural organisations, or community-based projects that develop practical cross-cultural skills.

Typical structure

Students usually complete general education requirements alongside a major sequence. Lower-level years emphasise language acquisition and introductory philosophy; upper-level years focus on advanced texts, electives, and a capstone research project or practicum. Electives from history, religious studies, political science and East Asian studies allow customization of the degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a standard undergraduate application with proof of secondary education completion and academic transcripts. Typical expectations include strong performance in humanities courses and demonstrated written communication skills. International students must satisfy English language proficiency requirements. Prior study of Mandarin or another modern language is useful but not always required; placement testing may determine initial language course level. The university may request letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining interest in Chinese philosophy and cultural studies.

Career prospects

Graduates combine analytical skills, language ability and cultural literacy valued across many sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Secondary and tertiary education, curriculum development, and language instruction (often with additional teacher certification).
• International relations, diplomacy and public policy roles that require regional expertise and cross-cultural communication.
• Non-profit and cultural organisations, museums, and arts management focusing on East Asia.
• Business and trade roles—particularly those needing cultural negotiation skills and regional familiarity.
• Translation, publishing, journalism and research, especially with further postgraduate training.
• Progression to graduate study in philosophy, Asian studies, international affairs or related fields.

Why study at University of Mount Union

The University of Mount Union offers a small-campus, liberal-arts learning environment where students work closely with faculty on primary-text reading and research projects. The programme emphasises personalised advising, opportunities for undergraduate research and internships, and cross-department collaboration with language, history and religious studies faculty. Mount Union’s focus on experiential learning supports study-abroad placements and community-engaged projects that give practical context to classroom study, helping graduates move into professional roles or competitive postgraduate programmes.