The Religious Studies Department offers five graduate degrees:

The MA in Religious Studies (45 credits) is especially designed for the student who wishes study comparative religions, their related contemplative practices and interreligious dialogue. Students develop literacy in the living practice traditions of world religions, with a special emphasis on dialogue skills and an appreciation for religious pluralism. Graduates of this program will be especially suited for higher degree studies in religion, as well as teachers within their respective faith communities, and secondary school teachers in the humanities.

The MA in Religious Studies with Language (61 credits) includes all the course work of the Master of Arts in Religious Studies degree plus training in either Sanskrit or Tibetan through two years (16 credits) of course work or more. This degree is recommended for students without previous language study interested in pursuing further academic work in the field of Religious Studies or students with a special academic interest related to studying either language.

The MA in Indo-Tibetan Buddhism (45 credits) is an in-depth study of Tibetan Buddhism and its Indian roots, with a balance between study and the practice of meditation. These students seek personal enrichment and career enhancement through systematic study of Buddhism and applied meditation. This degree is an excellent foundation for advanced degree study, as well as preparation for careers in nonprofit agencies, dharma centers, secondary school teaching, and social service.

The MA in Indo-Tibetan Buddhism with Language (61credits) is designed for those students who wish to pursue a PhD in Buddhist Studies, with the eventual career goal of college or university teaching and/or professional translation work. Students in this degree may study two years or more of Sanskrit or Tibetan; some of our students elect to study both languages. We continue to have graduates of this degree who enroll in competitive PhD programs.

The Master of Divinity (78 credits) is a three-year program including in-depth theological study of the Buddhist tradition integrated with a thorough grounding in contemplative approaches to spiritual care-giving, interfaith chaplaincy, and community work. The degree prepares students for professional work in the fields of pastoral care, chaplaincy, dharma teaching, and community development. This program is firmly grounded in Buddhist philosophy and meditation practice. Within this Buddhist context, the program strongly emphasizes an interfaith approach to individual and community care, and a pluralistic view of working with life and diversity.

Additional Costs

All graduate Religious Studies programs have additional cost beyond Naropa University’s tuition. These noncredit programs are integral to the student’s educational experience but represent expenses that must be allotted for in their budget.

Dathün or Contemplative Practice Retreat (approx $1,100): All graduate programs
Nitartha ($1,900 plus travel to Vancouver or Halifax): Tibetan Tradition Sequence
Maitri Community Weekend ($150) and Week ($450–500): MDIV
Clinical Pastoral Education Training ($1,750): MDIV