University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The programme centres on core philosophical skills — critical reasoning, argument analysis, and ethics — while providing specialised study of Chinese philosophical traditions and their cultural context. You will take introductory and intermediate courses in general philosophy alongside classes that explore Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Buddhist philosophy in East Asia, and modern Chinese thought.

• Core philosophy courses: logic and critical thinking, history of Western philosophy, contemporary moral theory, epistemology and metaphysics.
• Chinese philosophy and culture: courses on Classical Confucian texts, Daoist texts and interpretation, Mahayana Buddhist thought as it developed in China, and modern Chinese intellectual history.
• Language study: Mandarin Chinese language courses from beginner through intermediate/advanced levels to enable direct engagement with primary texts and cultural materials.
• Interdisciplinary options: courses in Asian history, religion, literature, and political thought to situate philosophical ideas within broader cultural and historical frameworks.
• Capstone and research: a senior seminar, independent research project or honours thesis integrating philosophical analysis with textual study or field research; opportunities for presentations and faculty-supervised research.
• Practical experience: internship and study-abroad options that allow application of language skills and cultural knowledge in educational, cultural, or public diplomacy settings.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification (for example, A-levels, IB, or an equivalent high-school diploma) with a strong academic record. Admissions look for evidence of academic readiness and intellectual curiosity; applicants with backgrounds in humanities, languages, or social sciences are well placed for success.

• General academic preparation: satisfactory secondary-school qualifications with recommended coursework in English and social sciences or humanities.
• English language proficiency: for non-native English speakers, an approved test of English proficiency or equivalent evidence of readiness to study in English is required.
• Language preparation: no prior knowledge of Mandarin is typically required for entry to the major, though demonstrated language experience can allow placement into higher-level Chinese courses.
• Transfer and mature applicants: transfer students should provide college transcripts showing readiness for upper-division coursework; mature applicants are considered on the basis of academic history and supporting materials.
• Supplementary materials: a personal statement outlining interest in philosophy and Chinese studies, and letters of recommendation may strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates develop strong analytical, writing and cross-cultural communication skills that are valued across sectors. Career paths commonly pursued by alumni include education (secondary teaching and further study for collegiate teaching), translation and interpretation, international and public service, cultural organisations and museums, journalism and publishing, and roles in business or non-governmental organisations that require intercultural competence.

• Further study: many graduates go on to postgraduate study in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies, law or international relations.
• Public sector and diplomacy: roles in government, cultural diplomacy and policy work where understanding of East Asian thought and language is an asset.
• Education and outreach: secondary teaching, curriculum development, museum education and community cultural programmes.
• Private sector: positions in international business, consulting and communications where critical thinking and language skills are advantageous.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits students undertaking specialised interdisciplinary study. The institution supports language learning and regional studies through its language programmes and study-abroad partnerships, enabling students to combine philosophical training with immersive cultural experience.

• Faculty mentorship: opportunities to work directly with faculty who teach both philosophy and Asian studies topics, and to pursue supervised research projects.
• Interdisciplinary resources: access to language instruction, regional history and religious studies courses that complement philosophical inquiry into Chinese thought.
• Experiential learning: options for study abroad, internships, and community engagement that help students develop practical language skills and professional experience.
• Preparation for diverse careers: emphasis on writing, analysis and intercultural competence makes graduates adaptable to a range of academic and professional pathways.