You’re Supported Every Step of the Way
Every part of the student experience is designed to make sure you have the structure, guidance, and resources needed to succeed. Student support is integrated into the academic environment through coordinated services, faculty engagement, and clear communication — so you always know where to turn when you need help.
Academic Guidance and Progress Support
Students receive ongoing academic guidance focused on progress monitoring and successful completion of program requirements. Faculty and academic leadership are available to discuss performance, provide feedback, and help address challenges as they arise.
Cohort-Based Academic Pathway
Programs follow a structured, cohort-based curriculum that outlines course sequencing and academic milestones. This approach provides a clear pathway and helps students stay aligned with program expectations.
Faculty Mentoring and Office Hours
Direct access to faculty through office hours and scheduled meetings supports individualized learning and academic development. These interactions provide opportunities for feedback, clarification, and deeper engagement with course material.
Academic Records and Administrative Services
Students can request transcripts, enrollment verification, and other academic records through administrative support services. These services ensure accurate documentation of academic progress and program completion.
Financial Access and Tuition Support
To expand access to graduate education in Buddhist studies, SBU currently provides instruction without charging tuition. The University may review its tuition structure in the future as programs evolve, and any changes would be communicated to enrolled students in advance. Institutional tuition assistance is administered to help students continue their studies successfully.
English Language Support
Students who would benefit from additional language development may access supplemental English courses through an external partner. Eligibility for participation and any associated financial assistance is determined on a case-by-case basis. This support helps strengthen academic communication skills and promotes full participation in coursework.
Orientation and Resource Awareness
Orientation introduces students to academic policies, learning technologies, and available support services, helping them begin their program with clarity and confidence.
Program-Specific Academic Support
Support is also embedded within programs. For example, students in the Master of Arts in Buddhist Counseling Psychology engage in case discussions, guided practice activities, and faculty feedback designed to support the development of discipline-specific competencies.
Access and Communication
Information about student support services is communicated through orientation, faculty communication, institutional announcements, and the University website. Because instruction is delivered in person, services are provided consistently and equitably to all students.
A Community Designed for Success
Student support is not separate from the academic experience — it is part of the institutional framework that promotes retention, engagement, and achievement. The goal is to ensure every student has the resources and guidance needed to move confidently through their program.
