Rockford University

What you'll study

This programme blends core courses in analytic and historical Western philosophy with focused study of Chinese philosophical traditions, cultural history and the Chinese language. You will examine primary texts and contemporary scholarship in areas such as Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Mohism, Buddhist thought as it developed in East Asia, and later Neo-Confucian responses to changing social and ethical questions.

• Core philosophy modules: introduction to logic and critical reasoning, ethics, epistemology, history of Western philosophy, and philosophy of mind.
• Chinese philosophy modules: readings in classical Confucian texts (Analects, Mencius), Daoist texts (Tao Te Ching, Zhuangzi), Buddhist philosophy in East Asia, and Chinese intellectual history.
• Language and culture: progressive Chinese language courses (beginner to intermediate), modern Chinese literature and film, and courses on Chinese religion, ritual, and social thought.
• Comparative and thematic seminars: comparative ethics (Confucianism and virtue ethics), political philosophy in Chinese and Western contexts, philosophy of language across traditions, and contemporary debates in Chinese thought.
• Research and capstone: a senior seminar or honours thesis that requires original research, often involving close textual analysis, comparative frameworks or applied projects connecting philosophy with cultural studies.
• Optional experiential components: language immersion, study abroad programmes, internships with cultural organisations, or collaborative projects with area studies faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school leaving qualification appropriate to their country (e.g. high school diploma, A-Levels or equivalent). Typical entry expectations include a solid academic record with strengths in humanities subjects; colleges and transfer applicants are considered on the basis of prior tertiary study and transcripts.

Because the programme involves language study and close textual work, applicants who have completed prior coursework in philosophy, humanities, or a modern language will be competitive. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent prior study in English. There are no mandatory prior Chinese-language requirements for entry, though some background in language study is beneficial for immediate progress in the concentration.

Additional application elements may include a personal statement outlining interest in philosophy and Chinese culture, and letters of recommendation that attest to academic readiness for close reading and independent research.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong skills in critical thinking, argumentation, cross-cultural communication and language—qualities valued across many sectors. Common career paths include:

• Further study: graduate programmes in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies, international relations or law.
• Education and academia: secondary teaching, educational outreach or roles in museums and cultural institutions.
• Public and international service: diplomacy, public policy, non-governmental organisations and community relations roles that require cultural literacy and ethical reasoning.
• Business and industry: roles in international business, human resources, consulting and project management where intercultural competence and analytical skills are important.
• Language and communication: translation, interpretation, publishing, journalism and media focused on East Asia.

Why study at Rockford University

Rockford University offers small classes and close faculty mentoring, enabling students to engage deeply with primary texts and develop independent research projects. The liberal arts environment supports interdisciplinary study across philosophy, languages and Asian studies, and students benefit from opportunities for language practice, internships and study abroad to deepen cultural understanding.

The programme emphasises applied comparative thinking—preparing students to interpret and connect different intellectual traditions—and provides pathways to postgraduate study or careers that bridge the humanities and international engagement.