Diploma in Buddhist Studies (DBS)

Admission 2024-2025 is Now Open for Application 

Commencing March 2024

Objective

To provide both monastics and laypersons with the opportunity to earn a college degree in Buddhist studies through online and part-time basis.

Program Introduction

• This Associate-equivalent program consists of 30 credits for the total of 450 class hours, taken over two years period at part-time basis, total of four semesters.
• Lectures will be conducted in English and all students will attend the lectures online (No pre-recorded lectures). The classes will be held by RMTA through Zoom on two weekends each month, total of four months each semester, and two semesters each year. 
• This unique learning opportunity offers courses which are taught primarily by qualified monastic and lay teachers. 
• Certificate will be conferred by University of Kelaniya (UoK) upon completion of the program. 

Courses offered in this program:

· Historical Background of Buddhist Culture (4 credits)

· Fundamental Teachings of Buddhist Philosophy (4 credits)

· Selected Readings in Buddhist Sanskrit Literature (2 credits)

· Selected Readings in Pali Literature (2 credits)

· Buddhist Meditation (2 credits)

· Theravada and Mahayana (2 credits)

· Selected Readings in Āgama/Nikāya Literature (2 credits)

· Abhidhamma and Development of Buddhist Thought (2 credits)

· Introduction to Buddhist Psychology (4 credits)

· Buddhist Analysis of Mind and Mental States (2 credits)

· Modern Movements of Humanistic Buddhism (2 credits)

· Mindfulness Practice and Its Modern Applications (2 credits)

Admission Prerequisites

1. Educational qualification: 
   • A candidate possessing a High School Certificate or (Thirteen years school education)
   • A candidate possessing a pass in GCE (General Certificate of Education) Advance Level examination in Sri Lanka or 
   • A candidate possessing a certificate equivalent to above qualification or
   • A candidate possessing a Diploma in Buddhist Studies or any other subject from a recognized university or Higher education institute is eligible to obtain admission to this program.

        2. Strong interest and faith in Buddhist teachings and training

        3. Long-term commitment to the program.

Email to ybefacademy@gmail.com to request for the program application form.

Evaluation Criteria

• The examination of the course will be held at the end of each academic year.
• Out of 100 marks, 60% will be given in the year-end Examination, and the other 40% will be given for two mid-year assignments each carrying 20% marks.

Tuition

Students have to pay USD $500.00 for the program registration at the university upon admission. RMTA does not charge any additional fees, and all other expenses are fully supported by YBEF.  

University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

UoK was established 135 years ago in Sri Lanka and is now recognized as one of the world's finest Buddhist educational centers, graduating thousands of students with Associate, BA, MA, and PhD degrees in Buddhist studies. For more information: https://hu.kln.ac.lk/depts/pali/