Description

Since 1979, students have lived in a Burmese Vihar (monastery) while earning 16 semester credits. Students engage rigorously in a comparative approach to both the theory and practice of Buddhist Studies, culminating in a month-long independent research project. Participants on this program reach their own understanding of the essence that is common to all varieties of Buddhism while learning to appreciate the many cultural and historical environments in which it has flourished.

The program consists of four components:
1. Core courses (students choose from Buddhist Philosophy, Contemporary Buddhist Culture, and History of South Asian Buddhism)
2. Language (students need not have any prior language experience and choose from either Beginning Hindi or Beginning Tibetan)
3. Meditation Traditions
4. Independent Study: Selected Topics (often involving travel in India and neighboring countries)

For two and a half millennia, Bodh Gaya has been a magnet for pilgrims from all Buddhist cultures. It was here under the Bodhi tree that the prince-ascetic Gotama became the fully enlightened Buddha. Constructed temples reflect the architectural styles of Thailand, Burma, Sri Lanka, Japan, China, Bhutan, and Tibet.

Highlights

Participate in the daily life of a Buddhist monastery; become immersed in Buddhist culture, tradition and philosophy; and complete a four-week independent research project - often involving travel - designed around your specific interests.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

The fees for the Fall program are as follows: Tuition: 627 USD/credit hour; Total Tuition: 10,033 USD (16 semester credits); Round-Trip Transportation Internationally from London to Bodh Gaya and Transportation in India: 2,315 USD; Room and Board: 6,625 USD

Program Fees Include:

The program fee is set yearly and will include: tuition, London/Delhi orientation, room and board in India, and roundtrip transportation from London to Bodh Gaya.

Experience Required

yes

Applicants must have a minimum of sophomore status and be in good standing with their home institution. They should be mature, sensitive, self-disciplines, and able to adapt to new situations. Non-credit applicants need not be currently enrolled at a college, but they should be able to demonstrate intellectual competence and a serious commitment to learning. Applicants from all areas of study with an interest in Buddhist Studies are welcome to apply. Application deadline: March 15

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of 30-35

Scholarships are Available

AEA offers a limited number of scholarships for the Buddhist Studies in Bodh Gaya, India program. An AEA guide to scholarship and grant opportunities is located on our website. Financial aid information is available on our website or by contacting AEA.

Application Process Involves

• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 weeks

Antioch Education Abroad - Antioch University's Mission Statement

Since the 1950s, Antioch Education Abroad has been a pioneer in global education, offering courses that integrate resourceful academic content with cultural immersion. From Buddhist Studies in India to Arts and Culture in Mali to Brazilian Ecosystems, we develop and offer unique study abroad programs in Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe. Exploring their academic fields in diverse locations worldwide, students are taught, mentored, and led by on-site and AEA faculty who are experts in their respective fields.

Year Founded

AEA was established in 1956.