About NaropaAccreditation

Accreditation

Naropa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). HLC is a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education. Naropa was first accredited in 1986 and accreditation was re-affirmed in 2019. To maintain accreditation, Naropa University participates in a ten-year review process focused on quality assurance and institutional improvement in the context of HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation.

Naropa University prepared a self-study report to demonstrate that the University continues to maintain the high educational standards set by the HLC. The self-study process provided an invaluable opportunity to examine institutional practices while citing examples of excellence, the challenges ahead, and action steps leading to improvement. Documents related to that visit are included below.

Timeline

  • 2019: 4th Year Mid-cycle Review
  • 2023–2025: Preparation of Comprehensive Self-Study
  • April 2025: 10-year Comprehensive Evaluation and Site Visit

FAQ

What is Accreditation?

Accreditation is the process by which an outside review body certifies a college or university as meeting certain educational standards. Accreditation is an important “stamp of approval.” Accredited colleges and universities have proven that they are committed to educational quality and improvement.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent corporation which accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions.
Yes. Naropa University was first accredited in 1986 by the North Central Association and has been continually accredited since that time. Most recently, in 2015, Naropa’s accreditation was reaffirmed by the Higher Learning Commission.
There are many good reasons to attend an accredited institution. Here are a few of them:
  • Quality Education—Accredited colleges and universities deliver high quality educational programs.
  • Financial Aid—Accredited schools receive student financial aid dollars.
  • Transfer—Most schools will only accept transfer credits from an accredited school.
  • Graduate School—Most graduate programs will only accept students with degrees from accredited schools.

Resources

Naropa report cover

Read Naropa's Accreditation Self-Study Report

For information on Naropa’s 2015 accreditation, please click on the following link:

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Academics

Contemplative education brings together the best of Western scholarship and Eastern world wisdom traditions. Therefore, your pursuit of wisdom at Naropa means learning both about academic subjects and about your own place in the world. This innovative approach places Naropa on the cutting edge of the newest and most effective methods of teaching and learning.  

Admissions & Aid

If you’re seeking an education that resonates with both personal fulfillment and global impact, Naropa could be your top choice. At Naropa, you will experience a comprehensive curriculum that integrates the best of Eastern and Western educational approaches. Explore how Naropa can fuel your journey of intellectual and spiritual development.

Life at Naropa

Through its incredibly vibrant and welcoming community,  “Naropa offers a home for those who aren’t willing to conform to convention—the mystic, the healer, the prophet, the rebel, the artist, the revolutionary, the oddball—those who are incredible contributors to the evolution of society and of our planet.”—Core Associate Professor Zvi Ish-Shalom

The Naropa Difference

How is Naropa different from other universities? At Naropa, a liberal arts education balances rigorous academics with powerful interpersonal skills and self-awareness to educate the whole person. Naropa’s contemplative approach is inspired by Buddhist philosophy and the conviction that we can build a diverse, contemplative, enlightened society when we have transformed education to affirm the basic goodness of every person. 

About Naropa

Located in Boulder, Colorado, Naropa University is a Buddhist-inspired, nonsectarian liberal arts university that is recognized as the birthplace of the mindfulness movement. Naropa offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs that emphasize professional and personal growth, intellectual development, and cultivating compassion. 

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Naropa Campuses Closed on Friday, March 15, 2024

Due to adverse weather conditions, all Naropa campuses will be closed Friday, March 15, 2024.  All classes that require a physical presence on campus will be canceled. All online and low-residency programs are to meet as scheduled.

Based on the current weather forecast, the Healing with the Ancestors Talk & Breeze of Simplicity program scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday will be held as planned.

Staff that do not work remotely or are scheduled to work on campus, can work remotely. Staff that routinely work remotely are expected to continue to do so.

As a reminder, notifications will be sent by e-mail and the LiveSafe app.  

Regardless of Naropa University’s decision, if you ever believe the weather conditions are unsafe, please contact your supervisor and professors.  Naropa University trusts you to make thoughtful and wise decisions based on the conditions and situation in which you find yourself in.