CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme centres on philosophical texts, historical movements and cultural contexts from the Chinese tradition alongside comparative and thematic work in continental and analytic philosophy. Typical core topics include classical Confucian and Daoist thought, Chinese Buddhist philosophy, Neo‑Confucianism, Chinese political and ethical theory, and Chinese aesthetics. You will also study contemporary Chinese intellectual debates and the reception of Chinese ideas in global philosophical discussions.

• Core seminars — close reading of primary texts in translation, critical engagement with secondary literature, and methods for interpreting premodern Chinese sources.
• Thematic modules — topics such as moral psychology in Chinese thought, philosophy of language and hermeneutics in East Asian contexts, and comparative metaphysics.
• Interdisciplinary electives — courses drawn from East Asian Languages and Literatures, Religious Studies, Political Science and Art History to place philosophical texts in cultural and historical perspective.
• Language and text training — classes or directed reading in Classical Chinese and modern Mandarin are typically available or recommended to support primary‑source research; students may fulfil a language or equivalent source‑text competence requirement.
• Research methods and thesis — advanced research methods seminars, culminating in either a substantial master's thesis or a capstone research project; some tracks may offer a non‑thesis option with a comprehensive examination.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree with substantial coursework in philosophy, East Asian studies, religious studies, or a closely related humanities discipline. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a most recent CV, two or three academic letters of recommendation, a writing sample that demonstrates analytic and expository skills (often an essay in philosophy or a related field), and a statement of purpose describing research interests with respect to Chinese philosophy and culture.

For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required in line with university rules. Prior study of Classical Chinese or modern Mandarin is desirable but not always mandatory; conditional arrangements or preparatory language work may be available. Admissions committees look for evidence of strong critical thinking, familiarity with primary texts or secondary scholarship in the field, and a clear plan for graduate research or professional development.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of careers that value deep critical thinking, textual competence and cross‑cultural knowledge. Common paths include:

• Further academic study (PhD programmes in philosophy, East Asian studies, religious studies or related fields).
• Teaching at secondary or tertiary levels, especially where expertise in Chinese thought enhances curriculum offerings.
• Museum and cultural heritage work, including curatorial research, education and public programming focused on East Asian collections.
• Public policy, international organisations and NGOs where understanding of Chinese intellectual traditions and cultural contexts informs analysis and engagement.
• Publishing, journalism and translation, especially in areas covering intellectual history, culture and ideas.
• Consultancy and cultural advisory roles in business and arts organisations engaging with East Asia.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY offers the advantages of a large, research‑active public university system located in one of the world’s most diverse cities. Students benefit from access to the Graduate Center and CUNY’s libraries, cross‑registration options across colleges, and faculty whose work spans analytic, historical and comparative approaches to philosophy. The university’s strong connections with local cultural institutions, museums and consulates provide opportunities for internships, public scholarship and collaborative projects.

In addition, CUNY’s interdisciplinary environment supports tailored programmes that combine philosophy with language training, area studies and museum or archival research. The programme is particularly well suited to students seeking both solid philosophical training and the practical, cultural and linguistic skills needed to work on Chinese intellectual traditions in academic and public settings.