Indiana University

What you'll study

The programme blends core courses from a bachelor’s degree in philosophy with a sustained sequence of courses in Chinese philosophy, language and culture. You will take foundational philosophy modules such as logic, epistemology, ethics, metaphysics and the history of Western philosophy alongside classes that examine classical and modern Chinese intellectual traditions.

• Core philosophy modules: introductory logic and critical thinking, ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, and seminars in the history of philosophy.
• Chinese philosophy and culture: courses on Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Chinese Buddhist thought, classical Chinese political theory, and modern Chinese intellectual history.
• Language training: elementary through intermediate/advanced Mandarin Chinese, with options for classical Chinese or reading courses in traditional texts.
• Comparative and applied topics: comparative philosophy (East–West), philosophy of religion in East Asia, aesthetics in Chinese culture, and contemporary ethical issues in Chinese contexts.
• Research and capstone: senior seminar or thesis option, independent study directed by faculty, and opportunities to undertake primary-text research in translation and, where language ability permits, in the original Chinese.

Entry requirements

Admission to Indiana University is competitive and based on a holistic review of secondary-school academic record, curricular challenge and recommendations. For the philosophy major with a concentration in Chinese philosophy and culture, applicants typically need a strong academic profile in the humanities. Evidence of interest in languages, history or philosophy is an advantage.

• Successful applicants will normally hold a secondary-school diploma or equivalent and meet the university’s general admission standards.
• Proficiency in English is required; non-native speakers must meet the university’s language requirements through accepted tests or approved qualifications.
• Prior study of Mandarin or another modern language is beneficial but not mandatory; beginners can progress through the university’s language sequence.
• Transfer applicants should demonstrate college-level coursework in humanities or related fields and consult the department about placing into advanced language or philosophy courses.

Career prospects

Graduates develop strong analytical, interpretive and language skills that are valued across sectors. The degree prepares you for roles that require cultural literacy, clear reasoning and careful writing.

• Academic pathways: graduate study in philosophy, East Asian studies, religious studies, or related fields.
• Education and research: secondary or tertiary teaching, museum and cultural heritage work, and research assistant roles.
• Public and international service: government, diplomacy, international NGOs and policy work with a regional focus on East Asia.
• Private sector roles: international business, consulting, communications, publishing, translation and technology companies that value cross-cultural expertise and critical thinking.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers an interdisciplinary environment where the Department of Philosophy and the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures collaborate closely. Students benefit from a wide range of faculty expertise in Chinese thought, strong language-teaching infrastructure, and access to specialized resources.

• Robust language programmes and language labs that support progression from beginner to advanced Mandarin and classical Chinese reading.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary study through area studies centres and schools focused on global and international studies.
• Study-abroad options and exchange programmes in Greater China that enable immersive language practice and primary-source study.
• Research facilities, libraries and special collections that support work on Chinese texts and historical materials, plus chances for undergraduate research and faculty-mentored projects.