Universities in Western U.S. Offering Contemplative Studies?

I'm really interested in exploring contemplative studies at the college level. Does anyone know of any universities in the western United States offering programs or majors in this area? Any insights into the application process or program specifics would be helpful!

Sure, I can share some information on schools offering contemplative studies.

Brown University is renowned for its Program in Contemplative Studies, but it's on the East Coast. However, on the West Coast, you do have a few options. Two that come to mind are Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado and University of the West in Rosemead, California.

Naropa University is well-known in this area, offering both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Contemplative Psychology and Buddhist Studies. It integrates traditional scholarly learning with contemplative practices like meditation.

University of the West prides itself on incorporating mindful learning in all its classes. One of its major programs is a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a concentration in Buddhist Psychology.

Before applying, thoroughly research these institutions to understand their curricula, faculty, and overall academic cultures. Contemplative studies are incredibly interdisciplinary, combining insight from fields such as psychology, neuroscience, religious studies, and philosophy. Look into course catalogs to see what classes and professors align with your interests.

Understanding the application process for these universities is key too. Naropa University, for example, has a comprehensive review process that evaluates academic history, grasp of the English language, and demonstrated interest in the area of study being pursued.

I hope this helps and inspires you to take the next step in your academic journey encompassing contemplative studies. Your interest in such a holistic approach to learning is commendable. Wish you the best of luck with your college search!