DBS Informational Video

Admission 2025-2027 is still Open for Application. The deadline is June 30, 2025, apply now!

Commencing July 25, 2025

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). 

• Classes meet every other week on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday evenings (6:30-9:30 PM CT) 

                       For Example, the first Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday Evenings  

                       (July 25, 26, 27 & 28 of 2025), followed by the third Friday, Saturday, 

                       Sunday, and Monday evenings (August 8, 9, 10, 11 of 2025).

• There are four months per semester and two semesters per 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 Chinese Buddhist Sutras (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)