Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (MABS) – Online Part-Time Program (Two Years)

A. Introduction 

The Right Mindfulness Training Academy (RMTA), in partnership with the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies (PGIPBS) at the University of Kelaniya, one of Sri Lanka’s leading Buddhist universities, is pleased to offer the online Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (MABS) program.

Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 academic year. The program will commence on March 13, 2026, and the application deadline for full consideration is January 16, 2026. 

All applicants are strongly encouraged to read through all sections below before beginning and completing their applications.

B. Scope and Content of the Program

The MABS is a fully online, part-time program designed to provide students with up-to-date knowledge and critical understanding of Buddhist history, philosophy, and culture across Asia, along with insight into its modern perspectives and applications in the West. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including primary sources, Buddhist thought, social organization, and literature.

Courses are led by a diverse team of experienced monastic and lay scholars, who bring both a strong foundation in Eastern traditions and practical teaching experience in Western settings. This program serves as an excellent foundation for advanced academic research, careers in Buddhist or religious studies, or as an opportunity for personal enrichment within a broader liberal education framework.

C. Program Structure: 

· The MABS program consists of both coursework and an extended essay.

· Online classes are primarily held in the evenings (U.S. Central Time), from Fridays through Mondays.

· In addition to coursework, students are required to write a minimum 5,000-word extended essay on a topic related to one of the courses taken. The essay will be developed with support from designated workshops (MABS 72) and under the guidance and approval of the relevant professors. It must be submitted by the end of the second year, with the possibility of a one-year extension, if necessary.

D. Course of Study

Students who are registered through RMTA are required to complete the seven courses listed below within two-year period.

1. MABS 01: Buddhist Doctrines of the Pali Nikāyas: Analysis and Interpretation

2. MABS 64: History of Chinese Buddhism

3. MABS 73: Modern Buddhism*

4. MABS 74: Introduction of Buddhist Chaplaincy* 

5. MABS 70: Buddhist Doctrine: Modern Philosophical Perspectives 

6. MABS 71: Buddhist Ethics: Concepts and Philosophical Interpretations 

7. MABS 72: Research Methodology and Extended Essay

* New courses offered by RMTA.

· 2026-2027 MABS Program Schedule available here. 

E. Eligibility for Admission 

Candidates seeking admission to the MABS must meet at least one of the following criteria: 

· A postgraduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies/Pali from PGIPBS, University of Kelaniya, or from another recognized university or institute

· A Bachelor's degree from a recognized university

· Other qualifications deemed as equivalent to the above by the Faculty Board of PGIPBS

F. Application Procedures

1. Please download and complete the application form from PGIPBS, then submit it along with certified copies of your academic credentials to YBEF ADMIN .

– In section “03. Master’s Degree Programs,”please select “Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (One Year) – Part-Time.”

– A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA)of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), or an equivalent academic standing, is required for admission.

2. Once your application has been received and reviewed, you will be contacted to schedule an online interview.

G. Program Fees

· No application fee is required. 

· Course fee to PGIPBS: 

* USD 1,185.00 for students from developed countries

* USD 710.00 for Buddhist monks and nuns

· The course fee may be paid in full or through an installment plan. For details on installment plans, please contact us directly.

· RMTA does not charge any tuition or additional fees. As a non-profit institute, RMTA is committed to introducing and promoting Buddhist education and training in the West on a non-profit basis. 

H. English Language Proficiency Requirement

If the student’s first language is not English, their previous degree must have been completed with English as the medium of instruction.

Program Inquiries: Please contact Ven. Kongyan here.