On August 19, 2025 at 6:30 PM, Sakya Buddha University (SBU) held its orientation for the incoming 2025–2028 cohort.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Chancellor Dr. Victor Gabriel, followed by remarks from the Founder and CEO of SBU, Venerable Thich HuyenChau, who introduced the distinguished faculty, honored guests, and new students.
Introduction to the Master’s Programs
Chancellor Gabriel presented an overview of SBU’s two graduate programs: the Master of Arts in Buddhist Philosophy and the Master of Arts in Buddhist Psychotherapy. He also introduced the Fall 2025 courses, subjects, and the faculty who will be teaching the courses.
Dean of Buddhist Studies, Venerable Thich Tri Quang, Department Chair of Buddhist Philosophy, Venerable Thich Nguyen Dinh, followed by each faculty member — Dr. Victor Gabriel, Dr. Tenzin Dorjee, Dr. Lina Gupta, and Dr. John Freese — came forward to introduce themselves and express their excitement to teach at SBU and support students in their academic journey.
Dr. Gabriel and Dr. Freese then highlighted the distinctive features of the two Master’s programs:
M.A. in Buddhist Philosophy: An in-depth exploration of Buddhist thought, ethics, and practice, integrating scholarly rigor with personal spiritual growth. Students engage with core teachings, historical development, comparative philosophy, and modern applications in areas such as mindfulness, ethics, and interfaith dialogue. The program requires 56 graduate credits (14 core courses and 4 research courses), a minimum residency of four semesters, a thesis with oral defense, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
M.A. in Buddhist Psychotherapy: A unique program bridging Buddhist psychology with Western multicultural counseling, aligned with requirements for the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credential. The program requires 63 graduate credits (introductory, foundational, core, advanced, and clinical courses), a minimum residency of six semesters, a thesis or comprehensive exam, and a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Students can find complete details in the SBU Student Handbook, on the SBU website (sakyauniversity.com), and through resources such as Canvas and Zotero.
Vision and Growth of SBU
The CEO, Venerable HuyenChau shared highlights of SBU’s journey since its founding more than ten years ago and reaffirmed its mission:
“SBU endeavors to provide an all-encompassing education shaped by Buddhist principles, bridging the wisdom of Eastern and Western traditions and fostering cultural understanding to empower students for meaningful contributions in a rapidly evolving world.”
He also announced upcoming initiatives:
- Construction of student dormitories for monks and nuns, with Respectable Venerable Thich Nguyen Nguyen and Respectable Venerable Nun Thich Nu Tam Nhut, who were invited to oversee the monasteries.
- Launch of three Ph.D. research programs in September 2025: AI Dharma, Integrative Medicine, and Vinaya & the U.S. Constitution.
- Special recognition of Dr. Kim, an expert in herbal medicine and acupuncture, who will contribute to the Integrative Medicine program.
Strong Enrollment and Closing Remarks
The CEO was delighted to report strong enrollment numbers: 18 students in the M.A. in Buddhist Philosophy and 21 students in the M.A. in Buddhist Psychotherapy.
The orientation concluded with words of gratitude to the faculty and students, along with best wishes for success in the years ahead.
August 20, 2025
The Communication Team
Sakya Buddha University
