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M.A. English-track

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Program Highlights

  • Focus on Chinese Mahayana Buddhism: Our M.A. program offers an in-depth exploration of Chinese Mahayana Buddhism, combining traditional teachings with modern insights.
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  • Contemporary Academic Approaches: Engage with cutting-edge methodologies to critically analyze Buddhist texts and ideas, emphasizing their relevance in today’s global context.
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  • Bilingual Excellence: Since 2022, we’ve provided dual-language tracks in Mandarin Chinese and English, preparing students to excel as bilingual Chinese-English professionals.
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  • Specialized in Translation: Our program places a strong emphasis on Chinese-English Buddhist translation. Applicants passionate about this field are highly encouraged to apply.
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  • Immersive Cultural Experience: Experience authentic Chinese Buddhist culture through communal living, creating a unique opportunity for personal growth and cultural immersion.

普賢獅禪修Additional Information

Language Proficiency Requirements

  • English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must provide proof of proficiency (e.g., CEFR B1 or equivalent).
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  • Canonical Language Preparation: Students without prior knowledge of Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, or Classical Chinese will complete undergraduate-level foundational courses offered by the department. Proficiency in one canonical language is required.
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Practice Courses for Personal Growth
Our MA program offers practice courses through the Yunshui Residential College, fostering personal development and a deeper connection with Buddhist principles through experiential learning. Participation in these courses is required for eligibility for the DBS Scholarship.
 

Flexible Living Arrangements
Students choosing alternative housing outside the department dormitory are welcome but will be ineligible for the DBS Scholarship. This arrangement ensures flexibility while highlighting the benefits of the communal learning environment.

Join us to excel in Buddhist Studies, master bilingual translation, and connect with a vibrant, globally-focused academic community.
Begin your transformative journey today!

Key Features 

Credit Requirements:

  • A minimum of 24 credits (excluding 6 credits for the thesis).
  • 10 credits from compulsory courses and 14 credits from elective courses.

    • Language Requirements:

      • Students without prior study in Sanskrit, Pali, or Tibetan must take foundational Buddhist language courses.
      • Non-native Chinese speakers can substitute with “Buddhist Chinese I” and “Buddhist Chinese II.”

    • Compulsory Courses:

      • Topics include Buddhist Demeanors, Buddhist Practice, Academic Writing, and Buddhist Texts & Traditions.

    • Elective Courses:

      • Broad topics covering Buddhist philosophy, ethics, history, fieldwork, and comparative studies of religions.
      • Specialized areas like Chan Buddhism, Tibetan Buddhism, Abhidharma, Mahayana Sutras, and Life-and-Death Studies.

    • Bilingual Education:

      • English-Chinese Buddhist Terminology and translation-focused courses are offered to enhance bilingual expertise.

    • Research-Oriented Approach:

      • Emphasis on seminar-based learning, independent study, and guided readings in classical Buddhist texts.

    • Global and Interdisciplinary Perspectives:

      • Courses on East-West comparative religious views, cultural exchange, and contemporary Buddhist issues.
    • This program offers a comprehensive pathway to advanced studies in Buddhist traditions with a strong focus on multilingual proficiency and global relevance.
    • Elective Courses: Detailed Overview
    • The Master’s Program offers a wide range of elective courses that cater to diverse academic interests and research pursuits in Buddhist Studies. These courses are designed to provide a deep and interdisciplinary understanding of Buddhism’s philosophical, historical, cultural, and practical dimensions.

    • Core Areas of Study:

      • Buddhist Philosophy and Thought:

        • Seminar on Madhyamika Philosophy: Exploring the Middle Way philosophy and its implications.
        • Seminar on Yogacara Philosophy: Analyzing the Consciousness-Only doctrine.
        • A Study on Tathāgatagarbha Thoughts: Investigating Buddha-nature theory in Mahayana traditions.
        • Tiantai and Huayen Buddhism: Focusing on Chinese Buddhist schools and their core teachings.

      • Canonical and Textual Studies:

        • Agama Studies and Mahayana Sutra Studies: Deep dives into foundational Buddhist scriptures.
        • Prajñāpāramitā Studies: Exploring Perfection of Wisdom texts.
        • Readings in Chan, Pure Land, and Sravaka Traditions: Analyzing key texts across traditions.

      • Regional and Cultural Studies:

        • Seminar on East Asian Buddhism: Examining Buddhism's influence in China, Japan, and Korea.
        • Seminar on Tibetan Buddhism and Literature: Engaging with Tibetan traditions and their global impact.
        • Cultural Exchange Studies: Understanding interactions between Tibetan and Chinese cultures.

      • Buddhist Ethics and Applied Studies:

        • Seminar on Buddhist Ethics: Studying moral principles and their modern-day applications.
        • Topics in Contemporary Buddhism: Addressing current issues within Buddhist communities.
        • Sociological Research of Buddhism: Applying research methods to study Buddhism's societal role.

      • Bilingual Translation and Fieldwork:

        • Buddhist Translation (English-Chinese): Developing skills to translate Buddhist texts between languages.
        • Fieldwork Seminars: Training in practical research methodologies, including ethnographic approaches.

      • Specialized Topics:

        • Seminar on Modern Chinese Buddhism: Focusing on contemporary developments and trends.
        • Chan and Pure Land Buddhism Seminars (I & II): In-depth analysis of two influential traditions.
        • Contemporary Theravada Buddhism: Engaging with issues in modern Theravada practice.