The Institute of Buddhist Studies offers three graduate degree programs:
- Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
- Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (M.A.B.S.)
- Master of Arts (M.A.) with a concentration in Buddhist Studies jointly offered with the Graduate Theological Union
Application deadlines for all three degree programs are:
- March 1 for fall semester admission
- November 1 for spring semester admission
Students are encouraged to apply by the deadline to receive consideration for some institutional grants.
Questions about how to apply? Contact our admissions director Gesshin Greenwood at gesshin@shin-ibs.edu
Degree Programs At-a-Glance
| Master of Divinity | Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies | Master of Arts (GTU) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admissions Requirements be sure to read the catalog for complete admissions and graduation requirements | - Bachelor of Arts Degree - Official Transcripts - Statement of Purpose - Three Letters of Recommendation - Application Fee - GRE Scores, optional | - Bachelor of Arts Degree - Official Transcripts - Statement of Purpose - Three Letters of Recommendation - Application Fee - GRE Scores, optional - Prior coursework in Buddhist studies or language studies suggested | - BA with Coursework in Asian Religions, Buddhism, or World Religions - Official Transcripts - Statement of Purpose - Three Letters of Recommendation - Application Fee - GRE Scores, required |
| Length of Program | 72 units or 3 years of full-time coursework | 48 units or 2 years of full-time coursework | 48 units or 2 years of full-time coursework |
| Program Distinction | - Specialized tracks of study for Shin Buddhist ministerial education and Buddhist Chaplaincy - Chaplaincy curriculum meets requirements for the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) | - Focused study on the Buddhist tradition from multiple methodological perspectives - Provides preparation for continued doctoral study in Buddhist Studies | - Buddhist studies within an explicitly inter-religious context - Provides preparation for continued doctoral study |
| Apply to... | IBS | IBS | GTU |