Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The programme blends a broad philosophy curriculum with a concentration in Chinese philosophy and culture. You will study classical and modern philosophical methods while specialising in East Asian intellectual traditions. Core philosophical topics include ethics, metaphysics, logic, and the history of Western philosophy; the Chinese concentration covers Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Chinese Buddhism, classical Chinese texts and the historical development of Chinese thought.

• Introductory philosophy modules: critical thinking, introductory ethics, introduction to logic and contemporary philosophical problems.
• Chinese philosophy core: readings in the Analects, Mencius, Laozi and Zhuangzi; major themes in Confucian, Daoist and Buddhist thought; Chinese intellectual history.
• Language and texts: elementary and intermediate Mandarin Chinese aimed at reading classical and modern sources; introduction to Classical Chinese for primary texts.
• Comparative and applied courses: comparative ethics (East–West), philosophy of religion in East Asia, political thought in Chinese tradition, and modern Chinese philosophy and reform movements.
• Research and capstone: methods in philosophical research, independent study or senior thesis focused on a topic in Chinese philosophy and culture.
• Supporting studies: optional modules in Asian history, religion, literature or contemporary Chinese society to provide cultural and historical context.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education with qualifications equivalent to a high school diploma. Typical entry standards include satisfactory grades in liberal-arts subjects and demonstrated ability in writing and critical thinking. Candidates with backgrounds in humanities, languages, social sciences or demonstrated interest in philosophy are preferred.

• Successful completion of secondary school or equivalent.
• Evidence of strong written and analytical skills (personal statement, essays or interview may be required).
• For non-native English speakers: an approved English-language proficiency qualification or equivalent evidence of English ability.
• Prior study of Mandarin is helpful but not mandatory; placement testing determines appropriate language course level.
• Mature students and transfer applicants are considered on the basis of prior college-level coursework and recommendations.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with skills valued across sectors: critical reasoning, textual interpretation, intercultural competence and written communication. The Chinese philosophy and culture emphasis adds language ability and cultural literacy that are useful for international roles.

• Education: secondary or post‑secondary teaching, curriculum development, education administration.
• Public service and policy: roles in diplomacy, cultural affairs, non-governmental organisations and community outreach.
• International business and cultural liaison positions requiring cultural fluency and ethical decision-making.
• Media, publishing and translation: research, editing, cultural journalism and translation work.
• Graduate study: continued study in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies, law, or international relations.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a small, liberal-arts environment that emphasises close faculty mentorship and a values-focused education. The philosophy programme encourages close textual study and seminar-style learning, enabling students to engage directly with primary sources and faculty research interests.

• Small class sizes: personalised instruction and opportunities for discussion, advising and independent research.
• Interdisciplinary approach: access to courses in history, religion, language and international studies to round out understanding of Chinese thought and culture.
• Practical experience: opportunities for internships, community engagement and applied ethics projects that connect philosophical study to real-world challenges.
• Global perspectives: language training and study-abroad or exchange options that help students gain first-hand cultural experience and language practice.
• Supportive community: a campus environment that emphasises ethical reflection and civic engagement, useful for students pursuing careers in education, public service and international fields.