Humanities Duke Kunshan University

Overview

What makes this Humanities major from Duke Kunshan University distinct is its emphasis on the movement of ideas across time, space, and media. Students do not merely analyze texts within a single historical or cultural tradition; they research how stories, philosophies, and artistic expressions travel, transform, and intersect across different worlds. Unlike conventional humanities programmes that focus on static traditions, Humanities highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of human expression.

The major is organized into four interdisciplinary tracks.

• Creative Writing and Translation: Emphasizing the craft of writing across genres, this track supports students in developing original works that engage with and reflect on global traditions and contemporary issues, combining theory and practice.

• Literature: Focusing on written, spoken, and visual storytelling, this track teaches students to analyze stories that span cultures and historical periods.

• Philosophy and Religion: Investigating fundamental questions about meaning, morality, and existence, this track examines philosophical and religious traditions across diverse global contexts.

• World History: Focusing on how people, ideas, and events have shaped - and been shaped by - global forces across time, this track emphasizes that history is not confined to national borders. Instead, it is a dynamic, interconnected web of stories, interpretations, and cultural exchanges.

Career paths

Students in the Humanities major graduate with soft skills in cultural literacy, critical and creative thinking. They will build communication skills that prepare them for graduate studies in the fields of history, literature, religious studies, creative writing, law, and business. 

They are well-equipped for careers in international business, law, media, education, consulting, and the nonprofit sector. By mastering the art of reading, writing, and translating the world, they become adaptable, globally conscious professionals equipped to navigate and shape the complex narratives of the future.