Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

This programme provides a foundation in Western and non-Western philosophical methods while focusing on the major schools of Chinese thought. You will study classical and modern texts alongside historical and cultural materials to appreciate how philosophical ideas developed in social, religious and literary contexts.

• Core philosophy modules: introduction to logic and critical thinking, ethics, epistemology, history of Western philosophy and contemporary analytic and continental approaches.
• Chinese philosophy modules: studies in Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Buddhist philosophy in East Asia, Neo-Confucianism and modern Chinese thought.
• Language and literature: elementary to advanced Modern Standard Chinese (Mandarin) and readings in classical Chinese as appropriate; courses in Chinese literature, poetry and textual interpretation.
• Culture and history: Chinese cultural history, religion and ritual, art and material culture, and contemporary social issues in greater China.
• Comparative and interdisciplinary options: comparative ethics, philosophy of language and mind across traditions, and seminars linking Chinese thought with political philosophy, environmental ethics or science and technology studies.
• Research and capstone: coursework includes research methods in philosophy and a senior seminar or capstone project that emphasises close textual analysis and independent research.

The programme normally combines lecture courses, small seminars, language laboratories and opportunities for supervised independent study. Students can typically tailor elective choices to prepare for graduate study or professional pathways.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school leaving qualification or equivalent. Typical offers expect a strong academic record with demonstrated ability in humanities subjects. For domestic applicants this may be expressed through grades and school references; international applicants must provide an equivalent credential.

• Academic: good secondary-school grades with emphasis on humanities or social sciences; mature applicants with relevant experience are considered.
• English language: if English is not your first language, you will need to demonstrate proficiency through accepted tests or prior education delivered in English.
• Language preparation: no prior knowledge of Chinese is usually required for entry to the programme, but some pathways or accelerated modules may request evidence of prior study.
• Supporting materials: personal statement outlining interest in philosophy and Chinese studies, and an academic reference are normally required; some applicants may be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates combine critical thinking, cross-cultural literacy and language skills valued in many sectors. Career destinations typically include:

• further study: MA and PhD programmes in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies or related fields;
• education: secondary school teaching (with appropriate certification) and educational publishing;
• public and cultural institutions: museums, cultural centres, NGOs and heritage organisations focusing on East Asia;
• government and diplomacy: foreign service, policy analysis and international affairs roles that require regional knowledge and analytical skills;
• business and communication: international business, consultancy, translation and localisation, and roles in media or publishing;
• research, civil society and advocacy: think tanks, research institutes and community organisations working on intercultural engagement.

Many graduates combine the degree with postgraduate training, language proficiency and internships to specialise for particular careers.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers a liberal-arts environment with small classes and close faculty supervision, which suits the intensive textual study and seminar work central to philosophy and area studies. The university’s location in the New York metropolitan area provides access to a wide range of cultural institutions, libraries and internship opportunities that complement study of Chinese culture and thought.

• Interdisciplinary approach: FDU encourages combining philosophy with language study, history and cultural coursework to form a rounded understanding of Chinese intellectual traditions.
• Supportive learning: small seminars, faculty-led research projects and opportunities for independent study help students develop advanced reading and research skills.
• Global connections: study-abroad options and institutional partnerships enable immersive language study and cultural exchange opportunities without compromising degree progress.
• Career support: dedicated career services and alumni networks in the region support internship placement and employment pathways relevant to graduates of philosophy and Asian studies programmes.