Master of Art in Buddhist Philosophy

The Master of Arts in Buddhist Philosophy degree offers an in-depth exploration of Buddhist thought, ethics, and practices, combining rigorous academic study with personal spiritual growth. The program delves into core Buddhist teachings, historical development, comparative philosophy, and contemporary applications of Buddhist principles in areas such as mindfulness, social ethics, and interfaith dialogue. Students engage with ancient texts and modern interpretations, fostering critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding. Designed for scholars, practitioners, and professionals, the degree equips graduates with a profound knowledge of Buddhist philosophy, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to academic, spiritual, and community contexts worldwide.

Program Requirements

To successfully complete the Master of Arts in Buddhist Philosophy, students must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Admission into the Master of Art in Buddhist Philosophy program
  • Consistent progress and advancement to preliminary candidacy
  • A minimum of 56 graduate-level credit hours as outlined below:Fourteen (14) core courses (44 units), Four (4) research courses (12 units)
  • All students must reside for a minimum of four (4) semesters
  • Proficiency requirement in a modern research language
  • Successful oral defense of the thesis
  • Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Fourteen (14) core courses (44 units)
  • Four (4) research courses (12 units)
  • All students must reside for a minimum of four (4) semesters
  • Proficiency requirement in a modern research language
  • Successful oral defense of the thesis
  • Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0

Coursework Overview

Required Courses (44 units)

  • BPHIL 515 - Introduction to Buddhist Philosophy (3 units)
  • BPHIL 530 - Comparative Religions and Philosophy (3 units)
  • BPHIL 570 - Philosophical Discussions of Buddhism (3 units)
  • PSYC 580 - Buddhist Psychology (3 units)
  • BMED 525 - Buddhist Meditation (3 units)
  • BMED 595 - Applied Buddhism in Society (5 units)
  • BWMN 575 - Women in Buddhism (3 units)
  • COMM 500 - Intercultural Communication (3 units)
  • COMM 510 - Nonverbal Communication Across Cultures (3 units)
  • BUDS 595 - Intro Buddhism and Social Issues (3 units)
  • BTEX 540 - Reading the Buddha’s Words (3 units)
  • BTEX 545 - Buddhist Scripture Translations in the West (3 units)
  • BTEX 560 - Sacred Texts in Buddhism (3 units)
  • BTEX 590 - Pali (3 units)

Required Research Methodology Courses (12 units)

  • RESM 500 - Academic Writing (3 units)
  • RESM 590 - Research Methodology (3 units)
  • RESM 592 - Research Methodology 2 (3 units)
  • CAPS 599 - Capstone Thesis Project (3 units)

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