What are your looking for?

• I’m looking for an academic degree in Buddhist Studies
  
  The IBS offers a number of academic degrees including a fully accredited Master of Arts (MA) in Buddhist Studies offered jointed with the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley (the GTU common-MA).
  
  This two-year program of study covers the breadth of the Buddhist tradition while allowing the student to specialize in their area of interest. Through our connection to the GTU, students have access to a wide range of academic resources, including the library and course offerings at the University of California, Berkeley.
  
  The GTU common-MA is also ideal for those interested in a career in Buddhist chaplaincy.
  
  The GTU also offers a PhD program with an emphasis in Buddhist studies; the IBS MA program is an excellent preparation for students wishing to pursue a doctoral-level degree.
  
  Click here for more details on all of our degree programs.
• I’m interested in a career as a Buddhist chaplain
  
  The IBS is pleased to offer a comprehensive program for students wishing to pursue a career in Buddhist chaplaincy. Our program can be completed as part of our regular degree programs, or students can accumulate course work for their ongoing chaplaincy training.
  
  In cooperation with the GTU, students enrolled in the common-MA program may also earn a Certificate in Buddhist Chaplaincy.
  
  For more details about our program, please review our website or contact Rev. Kinst.
• I’m interested in ministerial education or training
  
  In order to serve the American Jodo Shinshu community, the IBS offers training programs for those interested in a career as a BCA minister. Ministerial aspirants may enroll in any of our degree programs with a special emphasis in ministerial training.
  
  In addition to preparing students for tokudo ordination, we also offer a Kyoshi Certificate to prepare students for kyoshi ordination.
  
  For more details about our program, please review our website or contact Rev. Matsumoto.
• I’m interested in the intersection of Western psychology and Buddhist teachings
  
  The intersection of Buddhism and Western psychology has grown in importance in recent decades. A core component of the IBS curriculum explores the connection between traditional Buddhist teachings and contemporary psychology.
  
  In addition to specific courses on Buddhism and psychology, the IBS also offers a Certificate in Buddhism and Contemporary Psychology. This program offers a substantive and nuanced understanding of Buddhist teachings and provides a solid foundation for psychotherapists, counselors, and ministers.
  
  For more details about our program, please review our website or contact Rev. Kinst.
• I’d like to take some classes, but I’m not sure about a degree program
  
  Students interested in our course offerings may enroll with special student status or as auditors without enrolling in a formal degree program. This provides one way for people interested in learning more about the Buddhist tradition to have access to our learning community, and may be particularly helpful for students coming from the Buddhist Churches of America’s Minister’s Assistant Program.
  
  Additionally, the IBS offers a two-year, Master of Buddhist Studies (MBS) degree program. This program provides students with a structured learning environment without necessarily pursuing a career in chaplaincy or ministry.
  
  
• I’d like to learn more about Buddhism
  
  The Institute of Buddhist Studies offers a wide range of public programs, events, and resources including:

  • public lectures and events
  • academic publications
  • a podcast featuring dharma talks and lectures
• I’d like to learn more about the Institute of Buddhist Studies
  
  Established in 1949, the Institute of Buddhist Studies has been providing Buddhist education, ministerial training and chaplaincy education, and other educational programs in the San Francisco Bay Area for more than sixty years. Click the links below to learn more about all the Institute has to offer.
  
  

  • Learn more about our history, degree programs, and other resources
  • Connect with us via Facebook or stay in touch on Twitter
  • Watch our videos on YouTube
  • Sign up for our email mailing list

Frequently Asked Questions

Note: The GTU common-MA Program FAQ can be found here.

Q: How do I obtain an admissions application?

A: Click here for application materials or visit the GTU for more details on the common-MA program.

Q: What are the admissions deadlines?

A: We have a rolling admissions policy which means you can apply throughout the year.  If you are applying for the Master of Arts program you must request this application from the Graduate Theological Union. Deadlines for the M.A. application are February 15 and September 30. See our application procedures for more details.

Q: Is housing available?

A: Limited housing in our dorm is available. Please contact our offices for more information.

Q: I don't have a bachelor's degree. Can I still apply for admission or take a course?

A: A bachelor's degree is required for admission into all of our degree programs. Please review this page for more information on our admissions requirements.

Non-degree students and auditors do not need a bachelor's degree. However, please keep in mind that our courses are designed as part of a graduate level-educational program, and we do expect all students to be able to participate in our classes at that level.

Q: Can I take a course without enrolling as an IBS student?

A: Yes. You may apply for Special Student status which allows you to audit a course or take it for credit. Auditors are also welcome, though no record of enrollment will be kept for auditors.

Q: Is the GRE required?

A: Yes, the GRE is required for admission to our degree programs.

Q: Is financial aid available?

A: Yes. Federal student loans, work-study and are available only for GTU Common MA students and on the basis of financial need. You must apply by the February 1 deadline to receive priority consideration for most financial aid, and you should complete both a FAFSA and the IBS Financial Aid Application.

A number of non-need based scholarships are given each year to students. There is no separate application necessary to be considered for these scholarships. Visit our Financial Aid page for more information.

Q: English is not my first language. Can I still attend the IBS?

A: For GTU MA students, international students applying from a country in which English is not the official language must submit a TOEFL score from within the last two years. Applicants to the M.A. program are expected to have a TOEFL score of at least 80 (internet) 213 (computer) or 550 (paper).

Please visit the the GTU website for more information on international student enrollment.

Q: Do I need to be fluent in a second language before entering your program?

A: No. Language requirements can be fulfilled during your time at the IBS.

Q: What is the difference between the GTU Common M.A. and the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or Masters of Buddhist Studies?

A: The GTU Common M.A. is primarily a research-focused, academically oriented degree designed to provide a breadth of knowledge for the advanced study of religion and theology that incorporates an ecumenical design. It is a two-year program that requires certification in a modern foreign language and the writing of a thesis. Most people who pursue this degree would like to teach, research and write. The GTU common-MA is also excellent preparation for doctoral-level work, and the GTU has a Buddhist Studies Ph.D. program.

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree is a three to four year professional program preparing persons for lay and ordained ministries and pastoral work. Each member seminary offers the M.Div. degree designed in accordance with the denominational affiliation of that school.

Q: How much does the IBS cost?

A: IBS tuition is set by the GTU. Click here for our most current tuition and fees schedule.