the Institute of Buddhist Studies^®

About the
  Institute of Buddhist Studies

The Institute of Buddhist Studies is a Buddhist seminary and graduate school affiliated with the Graduate Theological Union and associated with the Buddhist Churches of America. We are located within the Jodo Shinshu Center in downtown Berkeley, California.

We offer a systematic educational program specializing in Contemporary Shin Buddhist Studies and culminating in a fully accredited Master of Arts degree jointly administered by the GTU.

Among the IBS programs are:

• Masters Degree in Buddhist Studies
• Jodo Shinshu ministerial training
• Buddhist Chaplaincy training program
• Study abroad opportunities with Ryukoku University, Kyoto, Japan
• A number of academic journals and publications

The IBS possesses two essential aims. First, it seeks to provide a program of education and training for students wishing to pursue a career in the Shin Buddhist ministry, and for those wishing to study the Shin Buddhist tradition at the graduate school level. Second, the IBS seeks to foster the development of Shin Buddhist thought in the religious, philosophic and social context of contemporary America.

The core, three year program in Contemporary Shin Buddhist Studies offers a systematic treatment of Buddhist traditions, a precise study of the writings of Shinran, and preparation in classical and modern Japanese.

Students wishing to specialize in other areas of Buddhism are encouraged to apply and may take the Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies as a two year program.

Explore the links to your left to learn more about all we have to offer!