Oregon State University

What you'll study

This programme pairs a core philosophy curriculum—logical reasoning, ethical theory, epistemology and critical thinking—with specialised coursework in Chinese philosophical and cultural traditions. You will study canonical texts and interpretive approaches to Confucianism, Daoism and Chinese Buddhism, and examine topics such as moral cultivation, political thought, metaphysics, and comparative ethics.

• Core philosophy modules: Introduction to Philosophy, Symbolic Logic, Ethics, Epistemology and Contemporary Moral Issues.
• Chinese philosophy modules: Classical Confucianism, Daoist thought, Buddhist philosophy in East Asia, and Modern Chinese intellectual history.
• Interdisciplinary options: Chinese language sequence (elementary to advanced), Chinese literature and history, religion and culture in East Asia, and courses on translation and hermeneutics.
• Research and synthesis: Senior seminar or capstone project that emphasises primary-text analysis, comparative approaches, or a substantial research paper guided by faculty supervisors.
• Experiential learning: Opportunities for study abroad, community-engaged projects, internships with cultural organisations, or collaborative research with faculty in related departments.

Entry requirements

Admission to Oregon State University follows the university's general undergraduate process. Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification and demonstrate academic preparation appropriate for a liberal arts degree. Successful applicants typically have strong grades in humanities and social-science subjects and evidence of analytical reading and writing ability.

• Standard academic credentials: Completed high school diploma or equivalent; competitive secondary-school GPA and coursework in humanities, languages or social sciences recommended.
• English language proficiency: International applicants must meet the university's English-language requirements through recognised tests or qualifications.
• Recommended preparation: Prior study of a foreign language (any language) and coursework in history, literature or philosophy will be advantageous; beginner entrants can start Chinese language study at the university.
• Transfer applicants: Credits from community colleges or other universities are considered; a programme adviser will review transferability and placement.

Career prospects

Graduates develop transferable skills in critical thinking, textual analysis, cross-cultural communication and argumentation valued across many sectors. The degree prepares students for a range of careers and further study.

• Academic and research pathways: Progression to graduate study in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies or humanities disciplines.
• Public and non-profit sector: Policy analysis, international development, cultural diplomacy and programme coordination where cultural literacy is required.
• Private sector roles: Consulting, communications, publishing, translation, and roles in multinational companies that value intercultural competence and analytical skills.
• Professional schools: Law, education and business schools, where the programme's emphasis on reasoning and ethical reflection is advantageous.

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State offers a liberal-arts environment with interdisciplinary options that allow close collaboration between the Department of Philosophy and language and area-studies units. Students benefit from faculty with expertise in both Western and Asian philosophical traditions and from curricular pathways that combine philosophy with rigorous Chinese-language training and cultural studies.

• Interdisciplinary strengths and cross-departmental collaboration with East Asian language and cultural studies.
• Opportunities for research projects, small seminars and mentorship from faculty engaged in Chinese and comparative philosophy.
• Access to study-abroad programmes and community partnerships that support practical experience and language immersion.
• Support services for undergraduates, including academic advising, language labs and career development resources to prepare for employment or graduate study.