Degree Programs
We offer two graduate degree programs designed to deepen your understanding of Buddhist thought, history, and practice. The Master of Divinity prepares students for meaningful careers in Buddhist ministry and chaplaincy, while the Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies provides a rigorous academic foundation for doctoral study and professional service. Both programs welcome students from diverse backgrounds and traditions.
March 1 is the priority application deadline for IBS’s degree programs.
Certificate Programs
We offer five certificate programs spanning a range of Buddhist traditions and professional paths. Whether you’re drawn to Shin Buddhism, Sōtō Zen, Theravada, Chaplaincy, or broader Buddhist studies, our online programs make it possible to pursue your education from anywhere. Certificate programs also integrate seamlessly into our degree programs through our stackable curriculum.
Before applying for these certificates, please review our expectations for online learning.
Stackable Curriculum
At IBS, your education grows with you. Our stackable curriculum allows students to move seamlessly from certificate programs into full degree programs, building on prior coursework without starting over. It’s a flexible, efficient path designed to meet you where you are.
Funding Your Education
At IBS, we’re committed to making your education accessible. Institutional scholarships are available to help offset the cost of tuition, and our affordable student housing in Berkeley ensures that living expenses don’t stand in the way of your studies.
Enrollment Options
There are many ways to start your education at the Institute of Buddhist Studies. Some students apply directly to a certificate or degree program; others begin by auditing a class or taking one for credit as a special student. And our stackable curriculum allows students to advance from a certificate to degree program seamlessly.