Doane University

What you'll study

This programme blends core courses in Western philosophy with a concentrated sequence examining Chinese philosophical traditions and cultural history. You will study topics such as Confucianism, Daoism (Taoism), Chinese Buddhist thought, classical Chinese texts, and the modern intellectual movements that shaped contemporary China. Core philosophical methods—logic, ethics, epistemology and critical theory—are taught alongside specialised modules in Chinese philosophy to enable comparative analysis.

• Introductory modules: Introduction to Philosophy; Critical Thinking and Logic; Introduction to Chinese Philosophy.
• Classical traditions: Confucian Ethics and Political Thought; Daoist Philosophy and Practice; Early Chinese Texts (including close reading of primary sources in translation).
• Buddhist and later developments: Chinese Buddhist Philosophy; Neo-Confucianism and Ming–Qing Intellectual History.
• Language and culture: Elementary and Intermediate Mandarin Chinese (to build reading access to primary texts), Modern Chinese Culture and Society, Classical Chinese language options where available.
• Methods and research: Philosophical Methods; Comparative Philosophy; Research Seminar and a Senior Capstone or thesis project focused on Chinese philosophical questions or a cross-cultural topic.
• Interdisciplinary electives: History of East Asia, Religious Studies, Political Science, Sociology or Art History electives to contextualise philosophical study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record. Typical admissions materials include official transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest in philosophy and Asian studies, and at least one academic recommendation. Doane considers applicants holistically; relevant extracurriculars, coursework in humanities or languages, and evidence of critical reading and writing strengthen an application.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence unless exempt. Students without prior Mandarin experience can enter the programme and begin language study at the elementary level.

Career prospects

Graduates with a background in Chinese philosophy and culture are equipped for a wide range of careers that value analytical thinking, cross-cultural literacy and clear communication. Common paths include:

• Further academic study (MA or PhD) in philosophy, Asian studies, religious studies, or related fields.
• Education and teaching at secondary or tertiary levels, often combined with language instruction.
• Public service, diplomacy, and international relations roles that require cultural competence.
• Business, consulting and non-profit work where ethical analysis and intercultural negotiation are important.
• Translation, publishing, journalism and cultural programming roles focused on East Asia.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers this programme within a small liberal-arts environment that emphasises close faculty mentorship, small seminar-style classes and opportunities for undergraduate research. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across languages, history and religious studies, and from campus resources that support internships and experiential learning. Doane’s emphasis on global perspectives is reinforced through study-abroad and exchange opportunities, which complement classroom study of Chinese texts and contemporary culture.

The programme is designed to be accessible to students beginning language study while providing pathways for advanced textual research and a capstone project under faculty supervision, preparing graduates for both professional roles and advanced study.