The undergraduate program in Buddhist Study and Practice offers students a unique opportunity to learn about Buddhism by combining their academic studies with the real practice of the various methods of contemplation and inquiry taught by the Buddha. Course offerings include rigorous academic training in the philosophical and theoretical principles contained in the Sutras, Shastras, and Vinaya texts of the Tripitaka, or Buddhist Canon. At the same time, students will be able to experience the living traditions of Buddhist religious practice. The undergraduate program in Buddhist Study and Practice offers two optional concentrations in Translation and Language Studies and Chinese Studies. The University offers Bachelor’s Degrees in Buddhist Study and Practice at the Ukiah campus only.

Students who wish to pursue the Translation and Language Studies concentration are offered an opportunity to develop language as well as communication skills, while immersing themselves in the literature, culture, and religious practices of a specific area. Course offerings include linguistic skills, modern language skills, as well as interpretation and the ability to read passages aloud with fluency and thorough comprehension.

The Chinese Studies concentration is designed for the student who wishes to combine a foundation in written and spoken Chinese with a study of Chinese history, philosophy, and culture. Daily bilingual course offerings include instruction in written and spoken Chinese at all levels, and detailed study of important works in Chinese philosophy—including the works of Confucius and Mencius—as well as selected works from Chinese classical literature.

In addition to regular academic course offerings, students are given the opportunity to participate in the activities of a multilingual Buddhist community, where most ceremonies, lectures, and other functions are conducted in both Chinese and English. Opportunities for Asian travel and study abroad are an integral part of the program.