I thought that I would start a thread related to the study of Buddhism through the DL mode. I've included some links and hope that others will add more. I'd like to emphasize that I do not know anything about some of these programs and so my inclusion of them here should not be construed as an endorsement. As with anything else, a smart consumer will do their own research. Jodo Shinshu JSCC Tibetan Language Institute Tibetan Language Institute Website Rangjung Yeshe Institute Welcome to Rangjung Yeshe Institute | Rangjung Yeshe Institute Institute of Buddhist Studies The Institute of Buddhist Studies || Graduate level Buddhist studies education in Berkeley, California, since 1949 Also, I'm making a plug for the Shambhala Sun Foundation 7th Annual Online Auction. Check it out: Shambhala Sun Foundation - Auction Homepage - BiddingForGood Fundraising Auction
Good thread idea. The IBS classes can be applied to the online Certificate in Multi-religious studies from Starr King School for the Ministry (online.sksm.edu). Though it is quite pricey: almost 2k per course.
For those who might like a plain-language overview of the ideas at no cost, I'd recommend the free podcasts from Tara Brach. Very interesting and lots to choose from: Tara Brach - Meditation, Audio Dharma, Podcasts Enjoy!
The University of South Wales has an Buddhist Studies MA / PGDiploma / PGCertificate by distance learning. USW was formed recently by the merger of the University of Glamorgan and the University of Wales-Newport; it is now the largest university in Wales. The Buddhist Studies program is a continuation of a well-known DL program that was formerly offered at the University of Sunderland (until the sponsoring professor retired).
International Buddhist College offers an MA in Buddhist Studies, as well as a "Postgraduate Certificate" and a "Postgraduate Advanced Certificate", by distance learning. IBC is in Thailand, where it appears to be a fully recognized institution, with accreditation from the Education Ministry.
Some unaccredited US options: Prajna Institute for Buddhist Studies. Online program leading to Master’s in Buddhist Doctrine (M.Bd) degree. Not accepting new students for 2013-14, as it is "at capacity". Buddha Dharma University. Online program leading to M.Div. degree. Maitripa College. Offers M.Div. and M.A. in Buddhist Studies, but only by residency. Non-credit courses offered online. The first two both appear to be affiliated with the Five Mountain Zen Order. They both claim religious exemption from accreditation. Maitripa operates legally as an unaccredited school in Oregon, with approval from the Office of Degree Authorization. They hope to obtain regional accreditation in the future.
There's also Naropa University, RA, which is seen as "Buddhist-inspired, ecumenical and non-sectarian, rather than Buddhist." I believe it offers degrees in Buddhist Studies in addition to other programs. The school site is here: Home | Naropa University, Boulder, Colorado Something that I really like about the school -- right down my personal alley. :smile: From the Wiki: "Naropa is noteworthy for having hosted a number of Beat poets under the auspices of its Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics" The whole thing is here: Naropa University - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Also - another list to explore: Buddhist universities in the United States - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Johann
Thanks, Steve. I re-visited their site and looked over the DL offerings. I see what you mean! :smile: Johann
University of the West, a regionally accredited school in the Los Angeles area, offers a "Humanistic Buddhism & Leadership Online Certificate Program". Three courses, inexpensive. The lecturer for the first course, Dr. Lewis Lancaster, is a Professor Emeritus at UC Berkeley.
Here's some more, Lion's Roar Studying Buddhism online: Where to go? - Lion's Roar San Diego University for Integral Studies Distance Learning - San Diego University for Integrative Studies | San Diego : San Diego University for Integrative Studies | San Diego University of Bristol Bristol University | Department of Religion and Theology | Centre for Buddhist Studies Tariki Trust ON LINE PROGRAMMES IN BUDDHIST PSYCHOLOGY - Buddhist Psychology World Buddhist University home
Here's some more, Lion's Roar Studying Buddhism online: Where to go? - Lion's Roar San Diego University for Integral Studies Distance Learning - San Diego University for Integrative Studies | San Diego : San Diego University for Integrative Studies | San Diego University of Bristol Bristol University | Department of Religion and Theology | Centre for Buddhist Studies Tariki Trust ON LINE PROGRAMMES IN BUDDHIST PSYCHOLOGY - Buddhist Psychology World Buddhist University home
Unfortunately, it appears that the International Buddhist College (in Thailand) no longer lists their 'e-learning MA in Buddhist Studies' on their website. What a loss!
Here's a different way to learn something about Buddhism https://www.cnet.com/news/this-robot-wants-to-teach-you-buddhism/
Oh no, not interested. Ever since my toaster oven tried to teach me about the Book of Mormon I've had a rule about learning about religion from machines.
