Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

This programme pairs core philosophy training—critical reasoning, logic, ethics and the history of Western philosophy—with focused courses on Chinese philosophical traditions and their cultural contexts. You will study primary texts in translation, engage with interpretive methods, and explore the interaction between philosophy, religion and social life in China and East Asia.

• Introduction to Philosophy and Logic — foundational skills in argumentation and critical thinking, including formal and informal logic.
• History of Western Philosophy — survey courses to situate comparative work within wider philosophical traditions.
• Classical Chinese Thought — study of Confucian texts (such as Analects and Mencius), their themes and social-political implications.
• Daoism and Daoist Texts — readings in the Dao De Jing and Zhuangzi, with emphasis on metaphysics, ethics and aesthetics.
• Buddhist Philosophy in East Asia — introduction to Mahayana ideas as they developed in China, Korea and Japan.
• Chinese Philosophy in Translation — methods of interpreting translated texts and understanding historical context.
• Comparative Ethics and Political Philosophy — comparative study of moral frameworks and political ideas across Chinese and Western thought.
• Language and Culture Electives — opportunities to take Chinese language, literature or history courses to deepen cultural understanding.
• Capstone or Senior Seminar — an integrative research project or seminar paper on a topic in Chinese philosophy and culture.

Students may combine these courses with electives in Asian studies, religion, history or language, and are encouraged to pursue study abroad, internships or research projects that enhance regional expertise and language skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to Eastern Washington University follows the institution's undergraduate admission processes. Applicants for the BA in Philosophy with a focus on Chinese Philosophy and Culture typically need a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent, a demonstrated record of academic preparation in humanities and writing, and a personal statement outlining interest in philosophy and East Asian studies.

Additional considerations include transfer credit from accredited institutions (evaluated on a course-by-course basis), and for applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent documentation. Specific course prerequisites are minimal for the major, but preparation in writing, critical reading and introductory humanities is recommended. Contact the Department of Philosophy or the admissions office for advice on course selection and credit transfer.

Career prospects

Graduates with this interdisciplinary background gain skills valued across many sectors: rigorous analytical reasoning, cross-cultural literacy, research and written communication. Common career paths include:

• Further study in graduate programmes (philosophy, religious studies, Asian studies, law and public policy).
• Education, museum and cultural organisations, and heritage institutions where knowledge of East Asian cultures is an asset.
• Public service, non-profit and community organisations that require critical thinking and intercultural competence.
• Business roles in international relations, cultural consulting, or organisations engaged with East Asia, where language and cultural expertise are useful.
• Publishing, journalism, and translation/interpretation where strong writing and conceptual analysis are needed.

Students should complement the major with internships, language training, and study abroad experiences to enhance employability in regionally focused roles.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers small, discussion-oriented classes and a supportive faculty in philosophy, providing close mentoring for research and senior projects. The university’s location in the Inland Northwest provides access to a range of cultural institutions and internship opportunities in Spokane and the broader region.

EWU encourages interdisciplinary study and provides resources for language learning, study abroad, and experiential learning through its Global Learning and community engagement programmes. Philosophy students benefit from active faculty who teach both analytic and historical approaches, and from departmental support for undergraduate research and conference participation.