MA in Buddhist Studies

Rangjung Yeshe Institute, in partnership with Kathmandu University – Centre for Buddhist Studies, offers a two-year MA program in Buddhist Studies.

The MA program combines graduate level seminars with extensive research in original primary source literature and languages. The aim of the program is to introduce students to the methods and skills involved in mature academic research and to develop their ability to undertake independent research projects within the field of Buddhist Studies.

During the first year of study the emphasis is on developing the necessary competence in classical Tibetan and Sanskrit to conduct research in Buddhist primary literature as well as gaining familiarity with the methodological approaches to academic Buddhist studies.

For the language classes, students study extensively classical Buddhist literature from the Sanskrit and Tibetan traditions, which provides them with the ability to read complex philosophical material in these primary source languages.

In research seminars, also offered during the first year of study, issues of method in academic research of religion and Buddhism are discussed. These courses introduce the historical development of the study of religion and develop the ability of the graduate student to engage in critical scholarship and research.

In the second year, the focus is turned toward the practical application of the skills acquired during the first year of study, culminating in the writing of the MA thesis. Working with an experienced thesis supervisor, the students formulate a thesis project and spend the first semester studying the necessary historical, literary, and philosophical background materials before spending the second semester on the writing of the thesis itself, likewise guided by the thesis supervisor.

For a detailed program description and for information on admission and prices, please visit the Centre for Buddhist Studies Website