University of Findlay

What you'll study

This programme provides a foundation in Western philosophical methods and history alongside specialised study of Chinese philosophical traditions and their cultural contexts. Core philosophy modules cover logic, ethics, epistemology, metaphysics and the history of Western philosophy to ensure analytic skills and comparative perspective. China-focused modules examine Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhist thought in East Asia, classical texts and interpreters, modern Chinese philosophy and intellectual history, and issues of translation and hermeneutics.

Students typically study topics such as:

• Introduction to Philosophy and Critical Thinking
• Logic and Argumentation
• Ethics and Political Philosophy
• Confucian Texts and Social Thought
• Daoist Philosophy and Cosmology
• Buddhist Philosophy in East Asia
• Modern Chinese Intellectual History
• Chinese language (elementary to intermediate levels recommended)
• Comparative Philosophy and Cross-cultural Hermeneutics
• Research methods and a capstone project or honours thesis on a topic in Chinese philosophy and culture

The programme encourages language study, primary-text work in translation, and comparative assignments that place Chinese philosophical ideas in dialogue with global traditions. Practical components such as independent research projects, community-engaged learning and opportunities for study abroad or language immersion are supported where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school completion or equivalent and present a solid academic record with strength in humanities subjects. Admissions typically consider transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest in philosophy and Chinese studies, and letters of recommendation. Prior study of Mandarin Chinese is beneficial but not always required; applicants without language background can begin language study as part of the degree. International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional measures.

Some candidates, especially those seeking advanced placement or honours tracks, may be asked to submit a writing sample or take a placement assessment in philosophy or language. Mature or transfer students with college-level coursework in related fields are encouraged to apply and may receive credit for prior learning where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates gain strong analytical, interpretive and communication skills that are valuable across a range of sectors. Common career paths include:

• Further study in philosophy, religious studies, Asian studies or related graduate programmes
• Secondary or post-secondary teaching and educational programme design
• Translation, interpretation and language services
• International relations, diplomacy and public policy with regional specialisation
• Cultural heritage and museum work, international non-governmental organisations and cultural exchange programmes
• Publishing, journalism and communications with a focus on Asia-Pacific topics
• Business roles that value cross-cultural understanding, critical analysis and ethical reasoning

Alumni also move into law, business and technology sectors where the ability to analyse complex texts and cultural contexts is prized.

Why study at University of Findlay

University of Findlay offers a liberal-arts–centred environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which suits in-depth textual study and discussion required by a philosophy programme. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across humanities and language departments and receive advising to combine philosophical study with Chinese language and regional coursework. The university supports experiential learning through research supervision, internship advising and opportunities to pursue overseas study or immersion experiences that deepen language competence and cultural understanding. This combination prepares graduates for both specialised academic paths and careers requiring intercultural literacy and critical reasoning.