University of San Diego

What you'll study

This programme grounds students in the central skills of undergraduate philosophy — critical reasoning, ethical theory, metaphysics, epistemology and history of Western philosophy — while offering sustained engagement with Chinese philosophical traditions and cultural contexts. Typical course work includes introductory and intermediate philosophy modules, thematic courses on ethics and political philosophy, and specialised seminars that examine Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Chinese Buddhist thought, and twentieth- and twenty-first-century Chinese intellectual movements.

Students are encouraged to combine philosophy courses with Chinese language study to read primary texts and contemporary writing in translation and, where possible, in the original language. Coursework often includes comparative modules that juxtapose Western and Chinese approaches to topics such as moral cultivation, governance, personhood and scientific knowledge. The degree usually culminates in an advanced seminar or capstone project in which students produce a sustained piece of research on a topic in Chinese philosophy or cultural thought.

• Core philosophy foundations: logic, ethics, epistemology, history of philosophy
• Chinese-specific content: Confucian ethics and political thought, Daoist metaphysics and practice, Chinese Buddhist philosophy, modern Chinese intellectual history
• Methodology: textual interpretation, comparative philosophy, philosophical writing and argumentation
• Language and culture: Mandarin language courses, literature and cultural studies options to support primary-source work
• Experiential learning: research projects, internships, and opportunities for study abroad or exchange in East Asia

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level and follows the University of San Diego's general admissions process. Applicants typically need the following:

• A completed secondary school qualification recognised by the university (such as a high-school diploma or equivalent)
• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong performance in humanities and writing-focused courses
• A personal statement outlining academic interests and reasons for pursuing philosophy with a focus on Chinese thought
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or counsellors who can speak to the applicant's academic potential
• English proficiency demonstrated through qualifications recognised by the university if English is not the applicant's first language (e.g. outcomes from accepted English tests or equivalent documentation)

The university considers the whole application in context, including extracurricular involvement, demonstrated interest in philosophy or Asian studies, and any relevant experience with language study or international engagement. Standardised test requirements may vary; consult the university's admissions information for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme develop strong analytical, textual and intercultural communication skills that are valuable across many professions. Common career paths include:

• Further academic study: MA or PhD programmes in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies, or related fields
• Education and teaching, including secondary-school teaching and university support roles
• Law, public policy and government work, where critical reasoning and ethical analysis are in demand
• International relations, diplomacy and non‑profit sectors, particularly roles requiring cultural literacy and language skills
• Business, consulting and communications, where problem‑solving and clear argumentation are prized
• Translation, publishing and journalism focused on Chinese-language content or East Asian affairs

Alumni often combine philosophical training with additional qualifications or language proficiency to specialise in areas such as human rights, cultural heritage, or Sino‑global business relations.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers a liberal arts education with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which benefits close reading of philosophical texts and sustained research projects. The campus emphasises ethical formation and global engagement in line with its Catholic and liberal arts traditions, creating a context for reflective study of moral and political questions.

Located in a diverse, internationally connected region, the university provides practical opportunities for language immersion, internships with organisations focused on Asia‑Pacific relations, and study abroad links that support first‑hand experience of Chinese culture. Students can also take advantage of cross-disciplinary resources across departments — such as language instruction, Asian studies offerings, and research centres — to tailor a programme that balances rigorous philosophical training with deep cultural and linguistic competence.