Susquehanna University

What you'll study

This programme blends core philosophical methods and texts with the history, thought and cultural context of China. You will study courses in logic, epistemology, ethics and the history of Western philosophy alongside modules that introduce classical and modern Chinese thought, including Confucian, Daoist and Buddhist traditions. Language study in Mandarin Chinese is an integral component, progressing from elementary language skills to reading primary sources in translation and, where appropriate, in the original. The curriculum typically culminates in a senior seminar or capstone project that emphasises independent research, comparative analysis and clear argumentative writing.

• Core philosophy topics: critical thinking and formal logic, analytic and continental approaches, ethics, metaphysics, philosophy of mind and the history of Western philosophy.
• Chinese philosophy and culture: courses on Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Buddhist thought in East Asia, modern Chinese intellectual history, and contemporary Chinese philosophical debates.
• Language and texts: Mandarin language sequence, introduction to Classical Chinese or literary Chinese readings (offered as appropriate), and translation/close-reading seminars.
• Interdisciplinary options: electives or cross-listed courses in Chinese literature, history, religious studies, political thought and East Asian art or film to situate philosophical ideas in broader cultural contexts.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for study abroad, internships, community-based projects and a capstone research paper or practicum with faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Admission to Susquehanna University is based on a holistic review of an applicant's academic record and potential. Typical expectations for applicants to the Bachelor of Arts include a completed secondary school diploma, transcripts showing strong performance in humanities and language courses where available, and evidence of effective written communication. Applicants are usually asked to submit a personal statement and at least one academic recommendation. Students who have taken Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or other recognised pre-university examinations may receive credit or advanced placement according to the university's policies. Prior experience with Mandarin is welcome but not required; introductory language pathways are provided.

Career prospects

Graduates with training in philosophy and Chinese culture are well positioned for a range of careers that value analytical reasoning, cross-cultural literacy and clear writing. Common career paths include teaching and education, law and public policy, diplomacy and international relations, cultural institutions and museums, non-profit and advocacy organisations, translation and language services, and business roles with an international or East Asia focus. Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in philosophy, Asian studies, area studies, law, or graduate programmes in language and cultural studies.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna's small liberal arts environment offers close faculty mentorship, small seminar-style classes and substantial opportunities for undergraduate research and independent study. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that allows easy collaboration between the Philosophy department and programmes in Modern Languages, History and Religious Studies, enabling a rounded understanding of Chinese thought within its historical and cultural contexts. The university supports language learning and immersive experience through study-abroad advising and internship placement services, and students often take advantage of campus events, visiting speakers and cultural organisations to deepen their engagement with Chinese philosophy and culture.