Santa Clara University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in core areas of Western philosophy—logic, ethics, epistemology and the history of philosophy—while offering a concentrated pathway into Chinese intellectual traditions and cultural studies. Typical modules include introductory logic and critical thinking, ancient and modern Western philosophy, philosophical methods, and courses specifically on Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhist thought. Complementary courses draw on Chinese intellectual history, classical texts (for example the Analects, the Dao De Jing and key Buddhist sutras), modern Chinese philosophy, and comparative studies that place Chinese ideas in conversation with Western theories.

Because Chinese philosophy and culture are best understood in language and context, the pathway usually integrates intermediate and advanced Chinese language study plus modules in literature, religion and history. Students can expect seminars on topics such as moral cultivation in Confucianism, metaphysics in Daoist texts, Buddhist ethics and meditation, Chinese political thought, and modern intellectual movements in China. The degree emphasises close textual reading, argumentative writing, and opportunities for independent research culminating in a senior thesis or capstone project.

• Core philosophy courses: logic, ethics, epistemology, history of philosophy
• Chinese philosophy: Confucianism, Daoism, Chinese Buddhism, classical texts
• Comparative philosophy and cross-cultural ethics
• Language requirement: intermediate/advanced Chinese
• Interdisciplinary electives: Chinese literature, history, religion, art and film
• Capstone/senior project or independent research supervised by faculty
• Optional study abroad or fieldwork in Greater China to develop language fluency and cultural familiarity

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level and follows Santa Clara University's general criteria for undergraduate applicants. Typical successful applicants will present a strong high-school academic record with coursework in humanities and languages, evidence of critical reading and writing ability, and a clear interest in philosophy, Asian studies or related fields. Applicants should demonstrate preparation in foreign language study where possible.

Application materials normally include a personal statement, school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Standardised tests may be optional in some admissions cycles; consult the university's admissions guidance for current policy. For students whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required. Those wishing to start the Chinese language sequence should indicate prior language experience if they have it, but beginners can usually enter a sequence that takes them through intermediate levels over the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates combine the analytic and ethical training of a philosophy degree with linguistic and cultural competence in Chinese, preparing them for a wide range of careers. Common paths include teaching, translation and interpretation, international relations and diplomacy, public policy and non-profit work focused on Asia, journalism and media, and roles in business development or consulting where cross-cultural understanding is valuable.

Many students go on to further study: master's or doctoral programmes in philosophy, religious studies, Asian studies, or Chinese language and literature; professional degrees in law, public administration or business; and specialised training in museum studies or cultural heritage. Employers value graduates' critical thinking, close reading and communication skills, cultural literacy, and capacity to work on complex, cross-cultural problems.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University offers this pathway within a liberal arts context shaped by Jesuit educational traditions: an emphasis on ethical reflection, social justice, and education of the whole person. The university's small class sizes and strong faculty-student mentorship enable close supervision of independent research, including senior theses and guided projects linking philosophy to Chinese language and culture.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments such as Philosophy, Religious Studies, History and Modern Languages, and from study-abroad opportunities that strengthen language skills and cultural immersion. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the university also provides access to vibrant Asian cultural organisations, consulates, and professional networks—useful for internships, community engagement and post-graduate employment.