The Buddhist Studies Program

Someone who wants a more structured approach and intensify his or her learning and experience of Buddhism can enroll in the Buddhist Studies Program and complete homework assignments, write essays on the application of what they have learned, and usually take quizzes and either a final exam to be tested on what they have learned or write an essay on a subject related to the program. They will also be required to take at least one seven-day meditation retreat. The emphasis will be not only on learning the main tenants, concepts, and principles taught by the Buddhas, but also applying these teachings to their daily life.

Depending on their prior educational qualifications they may upon satisfactory completion of all requirements receive a Master’s degree or a Certificate in Buddhist Studies. This program is open to Buddhists of all sects and to non-Buddhists of good heart who observe the three comprehensive precepts of doing no evil, doing only good, and helping living beings. Proof of an undergraduate degree from an accredited college is required for the master’s degree, but anyone can receive a certificate who completes the necessary course work. The course work is the same for both the degree and certificate programs, representing a one-year Master’s program with 36 credit hours. However, a person enrolled in this program can take any course that is not an exclusive part of the Xiuxing Seminary program as many times as he or she wants  as long as he or she maintains a Buddhist Studies Membership in LFBCS.

CLICK for required and prerequisite courses included in the Buddhist Studies program.