Academic Programs » Degree Programs

To suit the diverse needs of the Buddhist community, the IBS offers three different degree programs:

• a fully accredited Master of Arts degree offered jointly through the Graduate Theological Union
• a Master of Buddhist Studies degree
• a Master of Divinity degree

Continue reading to learn more about our degree programs

Master of Arts Degree in Buddhist Studies

In cooperation with the Graduate Theological Union, the Institute of Buddhist Studies offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree with a specialization in Buddhist Studies. The Graduate Theological Union is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Association of Theological Schools. It is recognized worldwide for its diverse theological resources and outstanding educational programs. Applicants to the Master of Arts program must be admitted to both the Graduate Theological Union and the Institute of Buddhist Studies.

Students in the program are required to take a breadth of courses in Buddhist Studies, while also gaining an exposure to other religious traditions and a variety of approaches to the study of religion. The course of study culminates in a thesis in which the student demonstrates his/her grasp of a specialized area of study within a broader context, either Contemporary Shin Buddhist Studies or Buddhist Studies generally.

The program is designed so that students can complete their studies in two to three years depending upon background studies and area of emphasis.

Master of Buddhist Studies (M.B.S.) Degree

In addition to the MA (Buddhist Studies) degree, the Institute of Buddhist Studies offers a Master of Buddhist Studies (M.B.S.) degree. This degree is designed for those interested in a systematic education in Buddhist Studies for professional or personal purposes.

Students in the program are required to take of breadth of courses in Buddhist Studies, developing an understanding of the doctrinal, historical and cultural development of the tradition as a whole. The course of study culminates in a thesis in which the student demonstrates his/her grasp of a specialized area of study within a broader context, either Contemporary Shin Buddhist Studies or Buddhist Studies generally.

The program is designed so that students can complete their studies in two to three years.

Master of Divinity (MDiv)

To meet the needs of those seeking professional certification either as a Buddhist minister or as a Buddhist chaplain, the Institute of Buddhist Studies offers a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program. This is a three year, graduate level program of study designed to prepare students for professional service either to a sangha or in public institutions, such as hospitals and hospices, jails and prisons, military and university.

The degree fulfills chaplaincy requirements for the Association of Professional Chaplains.

Click here for more details, admissions, and program requirements.