BA Contemplative Psychology

The Contemplative Psychology major requires 37 credit hours, 28 of which are drawn from the core requirements and the remaining 9 are chosen in one area of concentration. Students are formally evaluated through a portfolio process at the end of their two-year curriculum. The department requires a completed portfolio prior to graduation.

The basic purpose of the Contemplative Psychology major is to train students to work with their own personal process in such a way that they deepen their understanding of themselves, and discover the courage and wisdom to genuinely help others. Throughout, the emphasis is to combine a traditional liberal arts approach with training in moment-to-moment mindfulness, awareness and compassion.

The program is designed to help students develop

• intellectual mastery through the academic study of Eastern and Western psychological principles;
• intuitive insight through the practices of meditation, healing arts and experiential learning; and
• self-acceptance and compassionate relationship with others through the deepening integration of their study and practice.

The major prepares the student for any occupation requiring skill and subtlety in interpersonal relationships, particularly in the helping professions.

Students begin with the core requirements: courses in psychology and meditation from the Buddhist and Shambhala traditions, as well as courses in the basic principles of Western psychology. From this contemplative ground they then focus their study in one of four areas of concentration: Somatic Psychology, the Psychology of Health and Healing, Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology or Psychological Science.

Minor in Contemplative Psychology
To minor in Contemplative Psychology, students may choose any 12 credits from PSYB courses.

Certificate Program in Contemplative Psychology
A 30-credit certificate program, tailored to the student's needs and background, requires 18 psychology credits and 12 credits of general electives from anywhere in the university.