Dartmouth University

What you'll study

The programme brings together core courses in western analytic philosophy with specialised courses on Chinese philosophy and culture, delivered through an interdisciplinary arrangement between the Philosophy department and the university's programmes in Chinese language and East Asian studies. You will study classical and modern texts side by side, learning both historical context and contemporary interpretive methods.

• Core philosophy: introductory and intermediate courses in ethics, epistemology, logic, and philosophy of mind that build analytic skills.
• Chinese philosophical traditions: close reading courses on Confucian, Daoist, Mohist and Buddhist texts, including primary-source study and translation work.
• Comparative and thematic modules: courses in comparative moral theory, political philosophy across traditions, philosophy of religion (Buddhist thought), and contemporary Chinese intellectual history.
• Language training: progressive Modern Chinese language sequence with options in Classical Chinese or literary language for direct engagement with primary texts.
• Research and methods: seminars on hermeneutics, textual criticism, and research methods in both philosophy and area studies; opportunities for archival work and textual translation.
• Capstone: a substantial research project, independent study or senior essay that synthesises philosophical analysis with expertise in Chinese sources.

Entry requirements

Admission to the university is selective and based on overall academic achievement, personal statement, and recommendations. For this pathway, successful applicants typically demonstrate strength in humanities or social-science subjects and a record of analytical writing. Prior study of Chinese is advantageous but not required; motivated students with no background in Chinese language are admitted and supported through the language programme.

• Strong secondary-school credentials or equivalent qualifications from your country.
• Evidence of rigorous coursework and strong grades in subjects that demonstrate reading, writing and analytical ability (languages, history, philosophy, or social sciences are helpful).
• Personal statement and academic references that indicate intellectual curiosity about philosophy, Asia, or cross-cultural inquiry.
• International applicants should demonstrate proficiency in English according to the university’s general admissions policies; admissions may also consider language background and preparatory coursework for Chinese language study.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with close reading skills, facility in argumentation, cross-cultural literacy and language competence that are valued across many sectors. The combination of philosophical training and regional expertise opens a wide range of career paths.

• Academic careers and postgraduate study in philosophy, East Asian studies, comparative literature, religious studies or related fields.
• Teaching and educational roles, including language instruction and curriculum development.
• Public service, diplomacy and international affairs roles that value cultural competence and critical thinking.
• Policy analysis, non-governmental organisations and international development with a regional focus on China and East Asia.
• Publishing, translation, journalism and cultural institutions where text analysis and language skills are essential.
• Private sector roles in consulting, finance or technology that prize problem‑solving, research and communication skills.

Why study at Dartmouth University

Students benefit from a close-knit liberal-arts environment with strong faculty mentorship and substantial opportunities for independent research. The university supports interdisciplinary study across philosophy and East Asian studies, offering small seminars, dedicated language instruction and access to special collections and research resources for primary-text work.

• Direct access to faculty who work on both continental and analytic philosophy as well as specialists in Chinese intellectual history and Buddhist studies.
• Opportunities for study abroad and language immersion that enable sustained engagement with Chinese language and culture.
• Undergraduate research support and the chance to undertake substantial capstone projects under faculty supervision.
• A campus community that encourages cross-disciplinary dialogue, enabling students to combine philosophical analysis with historical and cultural scholarship.