Location:

Boulder, United States

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Biblical Studies

Program Overview

Program Description:

The Master of Divinity degree prepares students for professional work in the fields of pastoral care, chaplaincy, community development, and dharma teaching. This 72-credit, three-year program is firmly grounded in Buddhist philosophy and meditation practice, while emphasizing an interreligious approach to individual and community care. This training is then applied in hands-on internship work, to develop individuals who can actively manifest wisdom and compassion in the world. The program breaks new ground in preparing Buddhist-inspired students to serve their communities in leadership capacities.

The MDiv degree prepares students through four streams of learning: theological study—an in-depth understanding of the basic Buddhist texts and doctrines in historical and present-day contexts; community—devoted to the insights and tools for fostering “engaged” communities; interfaith pastoral care—the ability to serve the spiritual and human needs of a diverse community in ministerial/ chaplaincy roles while embodying the principles and practices of one's primary tradition; and practice and meditation—the spiritual practice of sitting meditation from the Buddhist tradition.

Clinical Pastoral Education or fieldwork placements based on individual student interests provide a context for integrating all four streams of learning and applying them to real-world needs, while initiating the process of lifetime learning through the students' work.

Two Emphases: History of Religions or Tibetan Tradition

Students may choose the History of Religions or the Tibetan Tradition emphasis. For specific information on the characteristics of these two emphases and how they differ, see the graduate religious studies section of the catalog.

Note on fees: There are several expenses associated with noncredit requirements in the Religious Studies programs. These do not involve any Naropa tuition cost, but do involve costs paid to the organizations offering these programs.

The monthlong contemplative practice retreat costs approximately $1,300. Master of Divinity students pay a fee of approximately $1,800 for participation in a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) approved internship. Tibetan Tradition students register for a 3-credit Nitartha Institute program through Naropa, which will cover the tuition cost, but not the room and board, text, and other items of the Nitartha program, which add up to approximately $1,000. The prices listed above are estimates based on current costs. These costs are determined by outside organizations and are subject to change. There are also occasionally smaller course fees associated with individual classes, which are subject to change.

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

Naropa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Financial Aid:

No