University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in standard areas of analytic philosophy (logic, ethics, epistemology and metaphysics) alongside specialised courses on Chinese philosophy and culture. Coursework typically includes introductory and intermediate philosophy modules plus a sequence of China-focused subjects covering Confucianism, Daoism, Chinese Buddhism, classical Chinese texts and modern intellectual movements.

• Core philosophy: Introduction to Philosophy, Symbolic Logic, Ethics, Epistemology, Philosophy of Mind or Metaphysics.
• Chinese philosophy and culture: Early Chinese Thought (pre-Qin and Han), Confucian texts and traditions, Daoist classics (Dao De Jing, Zhuangzi), Buddhism in East Asia, Modern Chinese intellectual history.
• Language and texts: Elementary and intermediate Chinese language options and courses in reading classical Chinese or translated primary texts to develop close reading skills of original materials.
• Interdisciplinary options: Electives from East Asian Studies, religious studies, history, comparative literature, anthropology or political science to contextualise philosophical ideas.
• Capstone and methods: Senior seminar or capstone project involving original research, often with comparative approaches or translation/interpretation of primary sources.
• Experiential learning: Opportunities for study abroad in China, Taiwan or other East Asian locations, plus access to university co‑op or internships that allow application of language and cultural skills in professional settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a completed secondary school qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Typical offers assess academic transcripts, a record of coursework in humanities and languages where available, and a strong writing sample or personal statement demonstrating interest in philosophy and Chinese studies. International students must meet English language requirements. There are no strict prerequisites in philosophy or Chinese for first-year entry, but prior study in a language or in humanities subjects is advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with analytical reasoning, close-reading, cross-cultural communication and language skills valued across sectors. Common career paths include further study in philosophy, Asian studies or law; careers in education, government and diplomacy; roles in international business, non‑profit organisations and cultural institutions; and positions in translation, publishing, journalism or policy analysis. The university’s co‑op and internship programmes also help students gain direct workplace experience relevant to international and intercultural careers.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati offers a philosophy curriculum integrated with robust East Asian language and cultural teaching, giving students both disciplinary depth and regional expertise. The institution’s cooperative education programme provides structured opportunities to gain professional experience during the degree, and established study‑abroad links enable immersive study of Chinese language and primary texts. Campus resources such as library collections, faculty with specialist research interests, and interdisciplinary centres support student research and capstone projects in Chinese philosophy and culture.