Master of Divinity

The 78-credit Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree prepares people for professional work in the fields of pastoral care, chaplaincy, dharma teaching and community development. This three-year program is firmly grounded in Buddhist philosophy and meditation practice, and strongly emphasizes an interreligious approach to individual and community care, and a pluralistic view of working with life and diversity.

Having a genuine interest in studying the Buddhist path is required, though identifying oneself as a Buddhist is not.

The MDiv is a professional degree for employment in the larger field of human services. This degree will allow people to seek employment as, among other things, chaplains, counselors, caregivers and change agents.

In particular, completion of a Master of Divinity degree has traditionally been an important credential in preparing a candidate for ministry as a chaplain. The established job opportunities for interfaith chaplains include positions in hospitals, hospices, prisons and the armed forces. Other available career paths include work in the not-for-profit community-based sector and other nontraditional “ministries” such as social activism, diversity ministry or community development.

The program includes significant internship and fieldwork experience, designed to meet the interests and needs of individual students wherever possible. This training develops individuals who can actively manifest wisdom and compassion in the world.