Chinese Philosophy and Culture

Program Description: Chinese Philosophy and Culture at Fudan University

The Chinese Philosophy and Culture program at Fudan University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the rich philosophical traditions, cultural heritage, and historical developments of China. Rooted in centuries of intellectual history, this program provides a unique opportunity for students to explore classical and contemporary Chinese thought, including Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and other influential schools of philosophy. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will examine Chinese literature, art, ethics, and social practices, gaining valuable insights into the cultural identity and philosophical principles that have shaped Chinese civilization over millennia.

The curriculum is designed to develop students' critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural competence. Courses cover foundational topics such as the history of Chinese philosophy, classical texts, and philosophical concepts, as well as modern interpretations and applications. Students will also engage in comparative studies, analyzing the influence of Chinese philosophy on contemporary issues, international relations, and global cultural exchanges. The program emphasizes language proficiency in classical and modern Chinese, enabling students to access original texts and perform independent research.

Our faculty comprises renowned scholars in Chinese philosophy and cultural studies, providing mentorship and fostering an intellectually stimulating environment. The program encourages active participation through seminars, workshops, and research projects, supporting students in developing their academic and professional interests in Chinese cultural studies. Graduates will be equipped with a deep understanding of Chinese philosophical ideas and cultural practices, preparing them for careers in academia, cultural diplomacy, international organizations, and related fields.

With its strategic location in Shanghai, a global hub of cultural and intellectual life, Fudan University offers a vibrant campus environment rich in historical sites, museums, and cultural exchanges. Students are encouraged to partake in internships, cultural activities, and field trips that enhance their learning experience outside the classroom. Whether you are passionate about classical Chinese thought, modern reinterpretations, or cross-cultural communication, the Chinese Philosophy and Culture program at Fudan University provides an excellent platform to deepen your knowledge and engage with one of the world's most influential civilizations.

Chinese Language Courses

3 courses, and maximum of 6 credits will be counted toward your degree. If students take a 4-credit language course, only 2 credits out of the 4 will be counted toward your degree. For students whose Chinese is so good that they don’t consider taking Chinese Language courses necessary, these courses can be replaced with Chinese philosophy courses offered in Chinese. 

Required courses

• Pre-Qin Confucianism and Legalism
• Pre-Qin Daoism and Mohism
• Introduction to Buddhist Philosophy
• Confucian Classical Studies 
• Neo-Confucianism
• Thesis 

Electives

• Chinese Spiritualities
• Modern Chinese Political Philosophy
• Indian Philosophy
• Issues in Chinese Buddhism

Requirements

• Upon approval, pay the application fee of RMB 800
• A copy of passport.
• Official Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (notarized English translations are needed if they are not originally in English, and the meaning of grades needs to be explained if it is different from the system commonly used in American colleges). 
• Notarized copy of diploma(s) from all post-secondary institutions attended if applicable (notarized English translations are needed if they are not originally in English). For college seniors applying for the MA program, a letter from the university that claims that the student in question will graduate by September is needed, and the student needs to bring the diploma to Fudan upon registration. 
• Two (2) letters of recommendation.
• Proof of English language efficiency if the student’s native language is not English and the student hasn’t attended college(s) in which courses are taught in English. An IBT score of 90 or higher or an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher is required. (If it is not the original copy, it needs to be notarized.) 
• A personal statement of less than 1,000 words (study and work experiences, academic achievements, research proposal, and career plan after the Fudan programs, etc.).
• A writing sample of less than 5,000 words.
• A list of scholarly works if applicable. 

Scholarships 

• Chinese government scholarship
• Shanghai Government Scholarship
• Confucius Institute Scholarships

The Chinese Philosophy and Culture program at Fudan University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the rich philosophical traditions and cultural developments of China. The curriculum covers classical and modern Chinese philosophy, including Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, Neo-Confucianism, and contemporary philosophical thought. Students explore the historical contexts of these schools of thought and examine their influence on Chinese society, ethics, politics, and arts. The program emphasizes both theoretical learning and practical application, encouraging students to analyze philosophical texts and participate in cultural activities to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture.

The faculty comprises renowned scholars specializing in Chinese philosophy, history, and cultural studies. The program adopts a multidisciplinary approach, integrating philosophy, history, literature, and cultural studies to foster a holistic perspective on Chinese civilization. Students are encouraged to engage in research projects, seminars, and debates to develop critical thinking skills and scholarly independence. The program also offers opportunities for international exchange and internships, allowing students to gain a broader global perspective and firsthand experience of Chinese cultural practices.

Graduates of the Chinese Philosophy and Culture program are well-prepared for careers in academia, cultural institutions, government, and media. They may also pursue further studies in philosophy, sinology, or related fields. Fudan University’s commitment to academic excellence and cultural heritage makes it an ideal place for students interested in deepening their knowledge of Chinese philosophy and contributing to cross-cultural understanding. Admissions typically require a strong academic record, and proficiency in Chinese language and literature is advantageous for fully engaging with course materials. Overall, the program aims to cultivate knowledgeable, culturally aware individuals adept at analyzing and promoting Chinese philosophy and culture within a global context.