INSTITUTE OF BUDDHIST STUDIES
Seminary & Graduate School Established 1949

2022-2023 Catalog
Revised June 2022

Table of Contents
Introduction..............................................................................................................3
A Word from the President ............................................................................................4
A Word from the Dean ...................................................................................................4
History of IBS ................................................................................................................5
Mission Statement ........................................................................................................7
Institutional Learning Objectives ...................................................................................7
Executive Staff & Board of Trustees ..............................................................................8
Accreditation & Effectiveness........................................................................................9

Educational Programs ...........................................................................................11
Our Educational Model................................................................................................13
Enrollment Options & Admissions ...............................................................................14
Stackable Curriculum ..................................................................................................17
Certificate Programs ...................................................................................................19
Degree Programs ........................................................................................................29
Expectations for Online Learning ................................................................................44
Exchange Programs & Affiliated Institutions ...............................................................45

The Faculty of IBS .................................................................................................49
Core Faculty ................................................................................................................49
Research Fellows ........................................................................................................50
Other Faculty ...............................................................................................................50
Emeritus Faculty ..........................................................................................................51

Course Catalog ......................................................................................................53
Academic Support & Policies ................................................................................71
Academic Support & Student Life ...............................................................................73
Academic Policies .......................................................................................................79

Tuition, Financial Assistance, & Other Policies ......................................................87
Tuition, Fees, & Related Policies .................................................................................89
Other policies ..............................................................................................................94

Academic Calendar 2022-23 ...............................................................................100
Campus Location ................................................................................................103

Introduction
Welcome to the Institute of Buddhist Studies

The Institute of Buddhist Studies is a leading American Buddhist graduate school and seminary thatprovides graduate-level education across the full breadth of the Buddhist tradition, with specialized
training in academic studies of Buddhism, Buddhist chaplaincy, and Jōdo Shinshū Buddhist ministry.
In addition to numerous graduate degree and certificate programs, IBS produces excellent and innovative
scholarship, and fosters engaged and inclusive community through conferences, symposia, and otherevents of interest for scholars and practitioners alike.
This catalog contains the most current information on our degree and certificate programs, academic
policies, and student support programs. Whereas this catalog is comprehensive, it should be used inconjunction with other handbooks and information located on the IBS website or available from the
GTU, especially in regards to the GTU-administered M.A. program.
This catalog is in effect for the 2022-2023 academic year, July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.
IBS’s administrative offices and classrooms are located inside the
Jodo Shinshu Center
2140 Durant Avenue
Berkeley, California 94704 USA
www.shin-ibs.edu
Telephone: 510.809.1444
Facsimile: 510.809.1443
info@shin-ibs.edu
Office Hours: M-F, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
See Academic Calendar for Academic and Administrative Holidays

About the Institute4

A Word from the President

A Word from the Dean

Established in 1949 as acenter for Shin Buddhist
ministerial education, IBS
today offers masters-level
degrees and certificate
programs in the full breadthof the Buddhist tradition,
while maintaining its
specialization in Pure Land and Shin Buddhist
Studies.

The Institute of Buddhist
Studies grew out of a desire
to educate American-born
Buddhists for ordination in
the Jōdo Shinshū
Hongwanji-ha tradition of
Shin Buddhism. Thisdenominational affiliation,
however, is tempered by the American context.
American Buddhists and those seeking to study
Buddhism in America, are located in a necessarily
diverse and pluralistic culture which informs theirunderstanding of the tradition. Thus, the missionof the IBS has developed over time to include
graduate education in the entirety of the Buddhist
tradition.

IBS graduates have gone on to become ordained
Shin Buddhist ministers in North and SouthAmerica and Japan. Other graduates now serve as
chaplains in hospitals, prisons and the military,
while others have embarked on careers as
Buddhist scholars. This diverse student body andapproach to Buddhist education is unique inNorth America, preparing students to bethoughtful and creative leaders in a complex andchanging world.
IBS is associated with a number of religious andeducational institutions. Its primary religious
connection is with the Buddhist Churches ofAmerica and Jōdo Shinshū Hongwanji-ha. IBS is
also a member school of the Graduate
Theological Union, a richly diverse consortium of
graduate schools and seminaries representing a
range of religious traditions. Other importantpartners include Ryūkoku University in Kyoto,
Japan, Dharma Drum Institute of Liberal Arts in
Taipei, Taiwan and the Sati Center for Buddhist
Studies.
Gassho,Rev. David Matsumoto, PhD
President, Institute of Buddhist Studies

This mission is expressed through providing ourstudents with a broad base of knowledge uponwhich to build a depth of specialization. Whether
our students are seeking to specialize in Jōdo
Shinshū studies, Sōtō Zen studies, or Theravada
studies, they approach their studies by first being
well grounded in the breadth of the Buddhist
tradition as a whole. In preparing our graduates
for further academic work or careers in ministryor chaplaincy, we seek to expose students to thewide diversity of Buddhist and religious culturesfrom across the globe.
Our educational programs then prepare ministers,
chaplains, and scholars to become public leadersand further the development of Buddhism andBuddhist Studies in the contemporary world.
Scott A. Mitchell, Ph.D.
Dean of Students and Faculty Affairs

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About the Institute5

History of IBS
The beginnings of the Institute of Buddhist
Studies can be found in the early history of the
Buddhist Churches of America (BCA), a branchof the Japanese Pure Land Jodo Shinshu Honpa
Hongwanji-ha headquartered in Kyoto. In 1930,
under Bishop Kenju Masuyama, a training
program and residence center for Englishspeaking ministers was established in Kyoto,
Japan. An educational program of lectures andcorrespondence courses began in the mid-1930s,
operated out of BCA headquarters in San
Francisco. Because the need for English-speaking
ministers increased after World War II, in 1948
Bishop Enryo Shigefuji established a monthly
study class at the home of Mrs. Shinobu
Matsuura. The program was open to any person
interested in Buddhism; however, its main
purpose was to prepare ministerial aspirants forthe rigors of study in Japan.
In 1949, as part of the 50th anniversary of the
BCA, the program was expanded and moved to
the Berkeley Buddhist Temple where it became
known as the Buddhist Study Center (BSC). The
BSC was placed under the guidance of Rev.
Kanmo Imamura, resident minister of theBerkeley Buddhist Temple.

Jane Imamura stands outside the recently
opened Buddhist Study Center at the Berkeley
Buddhist Temple, circa mid-1950s.

In 1958, the BCA resolved to establish a ministerial training center in the United States where all
instruction would be conducted in English. Prior to this, all ministerial candidates were trained in Japan.
Rev. Imamura was appointed to establish such a program at the BSC. Rev. Masami Fujitani took over the
directorship soon afterward and developed the educational program (1958-1963); Rev. Imamura returned
to serve a second term (1963-1967).
In October 1966, the BCA acquired a building on Haste Street in Berkeley, and the BSC was renamed theInstitute of Buddhist Studies (IBS), incorporating with the State of California as a graduate school andBuddhist seminary. The Haste Street location was the home of the IBS for twenty-two years prior to
moving to its second location on Addison Street. Bishop Shinsho Hanayama (Professor Emeritus, Tokyo
University) and Bishop Kenryu Tsuji played vital roles in the early stages at the Haste Street campus. Rev.

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Haruyoshi Kusada served as Executive Director from 1968 to 1983, laying the educational foundation for
the graduate program.
In February, 1985, under the guidance of Bishop Seigen Yamaoka, the IBS became an affiliate of the
Graduate Theological Union (GTU), a unique consortium of graduate schools and Christian seminaries
and one of the largest concentrations of ministerial and theological educational resources in the world
In 1986, Dr. Alfred Bloom, a noted Shin Buddhist scholar, was appointed Dean and Head Professor. Dr.
Bloom retired in 1994, and Dr. Richard K. Payne was appointed to the position of Dean.
After having its administrative offices located in Mountain View for over a decade, IBS moved back to
Berkeley in 2006. With its new offices and classroom space in the Jodo Shinshu Center, the IBS has
experienced renewed growth and vitality over the past decade. This growth has included the expansion of
its programs, a new Buddhist chaplaincy program, the addition of several new certificate programs, andthe appointment of new faculty.
After serving as Dean for twenty-five years, Dr. Payne stepped down from this position in 2016. The
Board of Trustees delegated his responsibilities to the newly appointed President, Rev. Dr. David
Matsumoto, and Dr. Scott Mitchell, Dean of Students and Faculty Affairs.
In 2020, the Institute of Buddhist Studies was granted initial accreditation by the WASC Senior Collegeand University Commission.
In 2021, IBS became a member school of the Graduate Theological Union.

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About the Institute7

Mission Statement
To provide graduate level education in the full breadth of the Buddhist tradition with specialized
education supporting Pure Land and contemporary Shin Buddhist Studies, while advancing
Jōdo Shinshū Buddhist ministry and Buddhist chaplaincy.

Institutional Learning Objectives
Creatively combining liberal arts and scholar-practitioner models of education, the Institute of Buddhist
Studies:‣ through educational programs grounded in critical thinking and academic freedom, empowers students
to become effective and engaged scholars, teachers, ministers, and chaplains;‣ through publications, scholarship, and research programs, promotes engagement with the Buddhist
tradition and contributes to the public good;‣ through institutional partnerships and in community, fosters an awareness, respect, and appreciation for
Buddhist, religious, and cultural diversity.

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About the Institute8

Executive Staff & Board of Trustees
Rev. Marvin Harada, BCA Bishop
Chancellor
Executive Staff
Rev. Dr. David Ryoe Matsumoto
President and Vice President of Academic Affairs

Dr. Scott A. Mitchell
Dean of Students and Faculty Affairs

Ms. Linda Shiozaki
Director of Finance
Please see the IBS website for a staff directory and contact information.

Board of Trustees
Dr. Leroy Morishita, Chair
Dr. Patricia Hiramoto
Ms. Cheryl K. Ikemiya
Rev. Kiyonobu Kuwahara
Mr. Charles Ozaki
Ms. Hoshina Seki
Rev. Candice Shibata
Rev. Dennis J. Shinseki
Mr. Rick Stambul
Rev. John Turner

Ex-Officio Members
Rev. Marvin Harada
BCA Bishop
Ms. Terri Omori
BCA President
Rev. Harry Bridge
BCA Ministers Association

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About the Institute9

Accreditation & EffectivenessWestern Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC)
Institute of Buddhist Studies is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission(WSCUC), 1001 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 402, Alameda, CA 94501, 510.748.9001.
Institute of Buddhist Studies’ listing on the WSCUC website can be located here:
https://www.wscuc.org/institutions/institute-buddhist-studies.
The most recent WSCUC Commission Action Letter, February 2020, can be found here:
https://www.shin-ibs.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CAL_200226_IBS_SAV2.pdf.
Educational Effectiveness
The Institute of Buddhist Studies is committed to the highest standards of educational effectiveness in allof its academic programs. Measures of educational effectiveness include graduation rates, the length oftime that students take to complete their degrees, and placement after graduation in positions appropriate
to their vocational objectives.
Please visit our website for graduation rates and times to degree for the M.A.B.S. and M.Div. programs.
For information on the GTU M.A. program, please visit the GTU website.

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Educational Programs

In this section:

Our Educational Model ....................................................................................................13
Enrollment Options & Admissions ..................................................................................14
Stackable Curriculum ......................................................................................................17
Certificate Programs........................................................................................................19
Online Certificate in Buddhist Studies ......................................................................21
Online Certificate in Shin Buddhist Studies ..............................................................22
Online Certificate in Sōtō Zen Buddhist Studies ......................................................24
Certificate in Buddhist Chaplaincy ............................................................................25
Certificate in Theravada Buddhist Studies ...............................................................26
Certificate in Buddhism and Contemporary Psychology .........................................27
Degree Programs .............................................................................................................29
Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies ...........................................................................31
Master of Divinity .......................................................................................................37
Master of Arts (Buddhist Studies concentration) .....................................................43
Expectations for Online Learning ...................................................................................44
Exchange Programs & Affiliated Institutions ..................................................................45

Educational Programs

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Our Educational Model
Recognizing the many ways students come to IBS, we’ve developed programs that provide both flexibility
and structure to meet our students’ diverse personal and professional goals. Four paths of study aresupported by three baskets or levels of education across our certificate and degree programs.
Four Paths
Buddhist ministry: IBS has been educating Jōdo
Shinshū ministers for over seventy years and now
also supports Sōtō Zen and Theravada Buddhist
ministerial education.
Buddhist chaplaincy: for more than a decade,IBS has been a leader in Buddhist chaplaincy
education. As an accredited institution, our
M.Div. degree meets the APC requirements forboard certification.
Pre-doctoral study: grounded in academic
Buddhist studies, many of our students havecompleted Masters degrees at IBS and continued
their educations at the doctoral level, earning
PhDs from the GTU, USC, Stanford and beyond.
Personal enrichment: our programs have always
provided space for students charting their own
paths. With a firm foundation in Buddhist history
and thought, a wide range of electives andadvanced seminars, and thoughtful academic
advising and support, our programs can serve theneeds of those students who simply want to learn
more about Buddhism, need specialized
knowledge for careers as psychotherapists andcounselors, or as leaders in the nonprofit sector.

Three Baskets
Foundational education refers to the “fullbreadth” of the Buddhist tradition mentioned in
our mission statement. Here, students learn about
Buddhism’s historical origins and spread acrossAsia and the world while contextualizing specific
Buddhist traditions (such as Jōdo Shinshū, Sōtō
Zen, and Theravada) within that broad history.
Further study allows students to build on thisfoundational knowledge by focusing on specifictraditions, areas of study, or disciplines. Whether
through sustained study of a specific lineage orteacher (the writings of Shinran, for example), or
language study (Buddhist Japanese say), students
will gain deeper insight into their chosen area ofstudy.
Field education further connects the academic
study of Buddhism and its practical application
beyond IBS’s programs. Whether students intend
to become ministers or chaplains, scholars orteachers, or leaders in their communities, ourprograms provide the means for students todevelop and integrate connections between
Buddhist thought and Buddhist practice. Students
will also develop relevant skills to be of service totheir communities and the public.

The four paths form the basis of tracks of study in our Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies and Masterof Divinity degree programs. And our stackable curriculum is interwoven with the three baskets, allowing
students to complete a certificate program and apply those units toward a degree program.

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Enrollment Options & Admissions
Choosing a path: What are my options?

There are many ways to start your education at the Institute of Buddhist Studies. Once you have reviewed
the information on our website and in this catalog, you may be ready to apply directly to a certificate ordegree program. Some students begin by auditing a class or taking one for credit as a special student.
Here are the different options for enrollment and general information about the admissions process.
Be sure to review certificate and degree program-specific admissions requirements, as well as information
on tuition and scholarships. Most students can expect a 50% or more reduction in tuition if they apply
for a scholarship.
Degree Program Applications
Application deadlines for degree programs students are:
‣ March 1 for fall admission‣ November 1 for spring admissions
See the section on degree programs for more information and program-specific admission requirements.
Certificate Program Applications
The application deadline for certificate programs is generally four weeks before the start of the academic
term. See the section on certificate programs for more information and program-specific admission
requirements.
Special Student Status
Students who do not wish to matriculate in a degree or certificate program may apply for status as a
special student.
Special student status is reserved either:(1) for students preparing to enroll at IBS as a degree program student; or(2) for students wishing to take classes for credit to transfer to another institution.
In either case, ordinarily a student can take no more than two courses as a special student.
Special students are expected to be able to work at the graduate level, and are required to fulfill allacademic work expected of other students in the classes they take. They receive most privileges accorded
to degree program students, with the exception of academic advising and library privileges. Special
students must abide by tuition and fee schedules and other academic policies contained in this catalog.
The application for special student status is available on the IBS website.
Auditing a course
Some courses are open to enrollment by auditors. No grade is given to the auditor, nor is any record of
attendance maintained by the Institute. Transcripts are not available for audited classes. Auditor status
does not include library privileges or academic advising. Permission to audit a course is always at the discretion of

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the instructor. Whereas auditors can expect to work at the graduate level, attend all class sessions, andparticipate in discussion, the instructor’s first priority will always be to regular students. The auditor shallnot expect to receive any guidance, feedback, or advising from the instructor.
Contact the IBS Registrar to audit a course.
Online and Hybrid Courses
Each semester, IBS offers a number of online courses which run the length of a regular semester andmay be either synchronous or asynchronous. Online courses are listed as 8000-level courses in the course
schedule. Students should contact the faculty of record to determine what delivery method will be used
for any given course.
Additionally, some courses are available as “hybrid” courses, wherein students may participate in a realworld class via video conferencing. Permission to join a class via video conferencing is always at the discretion of the
instructor.
Students at a distance should review the Expectations for Online Learning before enrolling in an online
course or program.
At present, IBS does not offer a fully online degree program. Degree programs have residency
requirements or limits on the number of online courses that can be used to satisfy graduation
requirements. All students should expect to spend some time in Berkeley.
Some students may wish to consider the stackable curriculum to meet degree program and residency
requirements.

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The Admissions Process
The application process serves two functions: first, it ensures that applicants have the necessary prioreducation or experience to succeed in a graduate-level program; second, it ensures that the institution has
the necessary courses, programs, and faculty to support a student and their chosen path of study.
Prior experience: an applicant can demonstrate their ability to do graduate-level work in a number ofdifferent ways — through prior education, degrees, or coursework, standardized test scores, letters ofrecommendation, and so forth. You should be prepared to submit transcripts of prior coursework anddegrees. Strong letters of recommendation from past professors or those who can speak to yourintellectual abilities are a plus. If you have relevant prior experience — such as extensive language
training, publications, or other certifications — let us know. The Admissions Committee reviews all of
this information to make sure that you’re prepared to do the level of academic work required in a
graduate program.
Remember that each program has slightly different admissions requirements, so be sure to review thosecarefully. For example, if you’re applying to the Certificate in Shin Buddhist Studies or the M.Div. withaspirations to be a Buddhist Chaplain, a letter from a supervising minister or Buddhist teacher may be
helpful. If you’ve taken the GRE, feel free to submit your test scores; but we know that not everyone
performs well on standardized tests, so GRE scores are not required for IBS’s programs. (Note that they
are required for the GTU MA.)
Institutional support: just like the Admissions Committee wants to make sure you’re prepared to do
graduate-level work, we also need to make sure we can support you and your professional or personalgoals. Does the IBS offer courses, programs, or have faculty or research resources in your chosen area ofstudy? To answer that question, spend some time reviewing our catalog, looking at our faculty pages, andthe degree and certificate program descriptions. And then write your statement of purpose with thisinformation in mind.
Your statement of purpose is crucial; this is how we find out what your goals are and decide whether or
not we’re able to support you. Again, each program is different — if you’re interested in pursuing a careerin Buddhist Studies (going on to get a doctorate and become a university professor, for example) and areapplying to the M.A.B.S. program, your statement should have a clearly defined research area and you
should reference the faculty and resources here at IBS that can support you. If you’re planning on
becoming a Buddhist chaplain, discussing the type of work you want to do or your prior service orconnection to a Buddhist community is helpful.
Remember, our goal at IBS is to support and encourage our students through their program and beyondby preparing them to be effective scholars, ministers, and chaplains. The application process is intended
to make sure we’re the right place to serve your needs and that you’re prepared to take this next step inyour education. Whatever information you can provide helps us ensure we’re the right place for youracademic success.

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Stackable Curriculum
Our stackable curriculum is flexible to meet the diverse needs of our students and their various paths intoand from the Institute of Buddhist Studies. Students may benefit from completing a certificate andapplying those units toward the completion of a degree program, or they may elect to enroll in a degree
program from the start. Our programs are ready to support students and their personal and professional
needs. See related policies regarding advancement through the program.
Year one: Certificate programs in Shin, Zen, Theravada or Buddhist Studies, or Buddhist chaplaincy.
Year two: Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies
Year Three: Master of Divinity

Programs
Certificate programs in:‣ Buddhist Studies (online)‣ Jōdo Shinshū Studies (online)
Year One:‣ Sōtō Zen Studies (online)
Foundational Education ‣ Theravada Studies‣ Buddhist Chaplaincy

Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies

Courses & Requirements
Buddhist Traditions of South Asia
Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
Certificate-specific foundationalcourses
Unit requirements vary by program
Methods in Buddhist Studies
Specialized courses in declaredYear Two:
Further Study

track
Language study as appropriate
Research-based thesis
Master of Divinity

Advanced seminars in chaplaincy
and/or Buddhist pastoral careYear Three:Contextual Education

Field education and/or ClinicalPastoral Education
Research-based thesis or project

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Certificate Programs

The Institute of Buddhist Studies’ certificate programs may be completed (1) as stand-alone programs;(2) as the first part of a longer program of study as per our stackable curriculum; or (3) concurrently
within a degree program. Certificate program students who wish to continue on to a degree must petition
for advancement. Students admitted into a degree program who wish to complete a concurrent certificate
need to inform the IBS Registrar in writing of their intention to complete a concurrent certificate.
Admissions requirements for all certificate programs are:1. Evidence (transcripts) of relevant prior study or coursework such as previous Buddhist Studies
courses or a Bachelor’s degree (B.A.).
2. Two letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant’s ability to do graduate-level work,
familiarity with Buddhist thought and/or practice, and relevant prior study or experience. For the
Shin Buddhist Studies Certificate, one letter from a supervising minister is recommended.
3. Statement of purpose (approx. 300-500 words) that includes (a) your reasons for pursuing graduate
studies at IBS; (b) your specific academic interests and how they fit with the faculty and courses at
IBS; (c) your personal or professional goals and how you see this certificate supporting them; (d) how
your relevant academic background or prior experience prepares you for your proposed course of
study at IBS.
4. Non-refundable application fee: $15
Applicants for all certificate programs can submit all application materials online at our website
www.shin-ibs.edu/apply. An application will not be reviewed until all materials have been submitted,
including the application fee. Applications are generally due no later than four weeks before the start ofthe semester. See the academic calendar for deadlines.

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Online Certificate in Buddhist Studies
The Certificate in Buddhist Studies introduces
students both to the history of the Buddhist
tradition as well as the academic field of Buddhist
Studies.
This program is intended for those seeking asystematic introduction to the Buddhist tradition,
especially lay Buddhist leaders and ministers or
priests seeking continuing education
opportunities. Curriculum includes courses on
Buddhist history, practice, ethics, and modern
expressions.
This fully online program may be completed in as
little as one semester; most students enroll parttime, taking as few as one course per semester.
The certificate is overseen by Dr. Scott Mitchell,
Dean.
Program Requirements
Students must complete a total of four (4) three-unit courses chosen in consultation with their advisor.
There is one required course, offered every fall semester:‣ HR-8107: Introduction to Buddhism and Buddhist Studies
Students enrolled in the GTU MA or member school programs are welcome to complete theCertificate in Buddhist Studies as a concurrent, on-site program. Contact the program director
for more information.

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Online Certificate in Shin Buddhist Studies
The purpose of this certificate program is toenable its participants to develop an increased
ability to understand and transmit the significanceof the Shin Buddhist teachings in thecontemporary world.
Moreover, the Certificate in Shin Buddhist Studies
program provides persons with an educational
grounding in areas specified by the Jōdo Shinshū
Hongwanji-ha as requisite for receiving kyōshi
certification.
Since 1949 one of the primary missions of theInstitute of Buddhist Studies has been to provide
a comprehensive program of education andtraining for persons aspiring to enter the Shin
Buddhist ministry in the West. The significanceand effectiveness of that effort has long been recognized by the Buddhist Churches of America and the
Jōdo Shinshū Hongwanji-ha in Kyoto, Japan. As a result, over the years scores of IBS graduates havebeen able to receive tokudo ordination, kyōshi certification and kaikyōshi status as overseas Shin ministers
from the Hongwanji.
The BCA has recognized the importance of expanding the scope and availability of the Shin Buddhist
ministry in order to meet the changing needs of its temples. The minister’s assistant program (MAP)
represents the BCA’s response to that situation. Persons who wish to receive tokudo or kyōshi ordination orserve as ministers in BCA temples should contact the minister at their local temple or the Office of the
Bishop of BCA. The IBS Certificate in Shin Buddhist Studies has been developed in order to provide an
educational foundation for those on this path.
The certificate is overseen by the Program Director, Rev. Harry Bridge.
This program may be completed as part of an on-site degree program. Please contact the
program director for more information.

Program Requirements
Students must complete a total of eight (8) three-unit courses for a total of 24 units. All courses must be
taken for credit and passed with a B- or better. Audited courses may not count toward fulfillment of thecertificate requirements. Please see the IBS catalog for further information regarding course credit,
audited classes, and related policies.

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The program’s eight required IBS courses (with the corresponding Hongwanji requirement) are:
‣ HRPH-1614: Introduction to Shin Buddhist Thought (真宗教義 1)‣ HR-3017: Readings in Mahayana Texts: The Three Pure Land Sutras (仏教教義1)‣ HRHS-3250: The Seven Pure Land Masters: History of the Pure Land Tradition (仏教教義 2)‣ HRHS-3075: History of the Shin Buddhist Tradition: Premodern (真宗史)‣ HRHS-1515: Buddhist Traditions of South Asia (仏教史 1)‣ HRHS-1518: Buddhist Traditions of East Asia (仏教史 2)‣ HRPH-4566: Works of Shinran I (or Works II or III with permission of the Dean) (真宗教義 2)‣ HRIR-2000: Buddhism and World Religions (宗教概説)

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Online Certificate in Sōtō Zen Buddhist Studies
The Certificate in Sōtō Zen Buddhist Studies isintended for two types of students: (1) IBS degree(M.A., M.A.B.S., or M.Div.) program students
who wish to demonstrate substantive knowledgeof Soto Zen history, teachings and practice. basic
knowledge of Sōtō Zen Buddhist studies, history,
and practice; and (2) students from outside the
IBS, particularly Sōtō Zen priests, lay andmonastic teachers and students, who wish toenhance their engagement with the tradition andtheir communities through systemic graduate levelstudy. Students will develop the ability to place
critical scholarship in relationship to received teachings, mutually benefiting both the study and practiceof Sōtō Zen Buddhism.
Students who complete this program will:‣ Locate Sōtō Zen Buddhism within the larger history of Buddhism as a whole‣ Be able to articulate Sōtō Zen teachings, texts and practices, and texts in relationship to other Ch’anand Zen traditions both historically and in the contemporary world.
‣ Be able to articulate the relevance of Sōtō Zen teachings and practices for and in contemporary
settings.
‣ Develop and apply critical reasoning and academic writing skills within a practice-based community
The certificate is overseen by the Program Director, Rev. Dr. Daijaku Kinst.
This program may be completed as part of an on-site degree program. Please contact the
program director for more information.

Program Requirements
Students must complete a total of six (6) three-unit courses within three years to complete the certificate.
(In-degree program students may complete the course requirements within the timeframe of their degree
program.)Required courses include:‣ HRHS-1515: Buddhist traditions of South Asia
‣ HRHS-1518: Buddhist traditions of East Asia
‣ HR-3040: Zen Buddhism‣ HR-3017/8317: Readings in Mahayana Texts (when subject is a Zen text)
Plus two elective courses selected in consultation with the program director. Final papers should be on a
topic related to Sōtō Zen Buddhist studies.

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Certificate in Buddhist Chaplaincy
This program is available as a stand-alone
certificate supplementing significant previous
academic and/or clinical studies. This certificate isappropriate for students wishing to pursue achaplaincy career in hospice or health care, prison
outreach, or the armed services. The certificate
indicates that the student has completed a courseof study focusing on the application of Buddhist
thought and practice in pastoral care andchaplaincy.
Program requirements
Students must complete a total of eight (8) threeunit courses within three years to complete thecertificate.
Required courses include:‣ HR-1515: Buddhist Traditions of South Asia
‣ HR-1518: Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
‣ HRPS-3076: Buddhist Pastoral Care I‣ Any Pastoral Care course from another GTU school
Plus four elective courses selected in consultation with the program director to meet individual students’specific needs.

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Certificate in Theravada Buddhist Studies
The Certificate in Theravada Buddhist Studies isintended for two types of students: (1) IBS degree(M.A., M.A.B.S., or M.Div.) program students
who wish to demonstrate a knowledge of
Theravada Buddhist studies, history, and practice;and (2) students from outside the IBS, particularly
Theravada practitioners, who wish to enhancetheir engagement with the tradition and theircommunities by obtaining a systematic graduatelevel education in Theravada Buddhist studies.
Students who complete this program will:‣ Locate Theravada Buddhism within the larger history of Buddhism as a whole‣ Study Theravada Buddhist texts and practices using critical methodologies‣ Develop critical reasoning and writing skills through academic writing and reflection
The certificate is offered in cooperation with the Sati Institute of Theravada Studies and overseen by Dr.
Scott Mitchell, Dean.
Program Requirements
Students must complete a total of six (6) three-unit courses within three years to complete the certificate.
(In-degree program students may complete the course requirements within the timeframe of their degree
program.)Required courses:‣ HRHS-1515: Buddhist traditions of South Asia
‣ HRHS-1518: Buddhist traditions of East Asia
‣ HR-1596: Introduction to the Study of Theravada Buddhist Traditions‣ HR 1615/8160: Readings in Early Buddhist Texts
Plus two elective courses selected in consultation with the program director. Final papers should be on a
topic related to Theravada Buddhist studies.

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Certificate in Buddhism and Contemporary Psychology
This program is not currently accepting students for the 2022-23 academic year. Please contact
our offices for updates or more information.

The Certificate in Buddhism and Contemporary Psychology is intended for two types of students: (1)
IBS degree (M.A., M.A.B.S., or M.Div.) program students who wish to focus their studies on theintersection of Buddhist understandings of consciousness and contemporary psychology; and (2)students from outside the IBS, particularly ministers, lay and monastic teachers, therapists and chaplains,
who wish to enhance their engagement with the tradition and their communities by obtaining a systematic
graduate level education in Buddhist studies.
Students who complete this program will:‣ Engage Buddhist understandings of consciousness as a foundation for conversation with
contemporary psychology and cognitive studies‣ Apply critical methodologies to the study of Buddhist texts and practices‣ Develop critical reasoning and writing skills through academic writing and reflection
The certificate is overseen by the Program Director, Dr. Richard K. Payne.
Program Requirements
Students must complete a total of six (6) three-unit courses within three years to complete the certificate.
(In-degree program students may complete the course requirements within the timeframe of their degree
program; in-degree program students may substitute other courses for the Buddhist traditions sequence.)
Required courses include:• HRHS-1515: Buddhist traditions of South Asia
• HRHS-1518: Buddhist traditions of East Asia
• HRPS-8320: Psychological Aspects of Buddhism I• HRPS-3016: Psychological Aspects of Buddhism II
Recommended courses include:• Third course from Psychological Aspects sequence• Topics in Buddhism and Psychology• Other courses with Dean’s approval
This program is not currently accepting students for the 2022-23 academic year. Please contact
our offices for updates or more information.

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Degree Programs

The Institute of Buddhist Studies offers three graduate degree programs:‣ Master of Divinity (M.Div.)‣ Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies (M.A.B.S.)‣ Master of Arts, with a concentration in Buddhist Studies, administered by the Graduate Theological
Union (GTU M.A.)
Application deadlines for all three degree programs are:
‣ March 1 for fall admission‣ November 1 for spring admission* Students are encouraged to apply by the March 1st deadline to receive consideration for some institutional grants.
Applicants for the M.A.B.S. and M.Div. degrees can submit all application materials online at our website
www.shin-ibs.edu/apply. An application will not be reviewed until it is complete, including all letters ofrecommendation, transcripts, application fee, and other required documents. Please see individual degree
program descriptions for full application requirements.
Applicants for the M.A. degree should contact the GTU Admissions Office directly regarding questions
and application materials. See the GTU website (www.gtu.edu) for specific application instructions.
Be sure to read about the admissions process to get a good understanding of what a successful
application looks like.

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Degree Program Comparison
Degree Program

Length of program
Foundational Education(required courses)

MDIV

MABS

GTU-MA(1)72 units/3 years

48 units/2 years

48 units/2 years

HRHS-1515: Buddhist Traditions of South Asia
HRHS-1518: Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
HRPH-1614: Introduction to Shin Buddhist Thought

Methodology course (2)HR-1630

HR-1630

MA-1000

Language requirement

Optional

Suggested (3)Required

Program track or specialization (4)Practical education (5)Thesis/capstone project (6)Other breadth requirements; electives coursework; degree program
tracks; and/or concurrent certificate
Field education
CPE Units
MAP
Pub. Speak.

Publication
Teaching
Colloquia
Public Speaking

Thesis proposal

Proposal

Thesis

Thesis/capstone

Notes:(1) GTU degree program requirements are set by the GTU Council of Deans and are subject to change.
Consult the GTU website and MA Program Handbook for the most updated information.
(2) Students in the M.Div. and M.A.B.S. are required to complete HR-1630, Methods in the Study of
Buddhism. GTU MA students are required to complete MA-1000.
(3) Formal language study is strongly encouraged for the M.A.B.S. program, especially those students on
the “pre-doc” track. Students may apply units of language study to the degree’s unit requirement.
(4) Students focus their studies in a variety of ways from specific degree program tracks or a concurrent
certificate program. Program tracks have additional course requirements.
(5) IBS is committed to providing extracurricular professional development opportunities for its students;
items listed here are suggestions and not a guarantee of specific programs. Please consult with yourAcademic Advisor or the Dean’s Office for more information.
(6) GTU MA students have the option of completing a shorter “capstone” project in lieu of a formal
academic thesis.

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Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies
What made my experience at the Institute of Buddhist Studies special was how the faculty
create a space where critical engagement is paired with profound respect, a space wherenovelty and tradition can be considered equally and deeply.
Thomas Calobrisi, Class of 2016

The Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies(M.A.B.S.) provides students an opportunity to
deeply engage Buddhist history, thought, texts,
and practices as a foundation for further academic
study at the doctoral level or professional service
in a religious community, the nonprofit sector, orother areas. The program is built on a foundationof academic Buddhist studies in a practitionerfriendly environment, allowing for intellectual
growth connected to communities of practice andvocation. As part of our stackable curriculum,
students who have already completed an IBS
certificate program may continue their studies in the M.A.B.S. either as a precursor to further study or for
their own intellectual growth. The program has four distinct tracks, detailed below, and may be completed
in two years of full-time study. Students may also enroll part-time and complete the program at their own
pace. Institutional scholarships are available for all eligible students.
M.A.B.S. Program Learning Outcomes (PLO)

In completing the M.A.B.S., students will:‣ develop academic skills to gain and demonstrate foundational knowledge of Buddhism’s history,
traditions, texts, practices, and doctrines;‣ demonstrate and strengthen academic skills through specialized study of a specific area or discipline of
Buddhist studies; and‣ write and defend a research-based capstone project or thesis which applies acquired knowledge andskill to their career goals of service or further study.
All students are required to complete 48 units for completion of the degree, maintain a 3.0 GPA andreceive a B or better in all required courses, and write and defend a research-based thesis.

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Admissions Requirements
The admissions process is meant to determinethat an applicant is prepared to successfullycomplete a graduate-level course of study andthat the Institute can support the applicant’s
academic goals. Successful applicants may
demonstrate their preparedness to do graduatelevel work in a variety of ways including a strong
statement of purpose; letters of recommendationthat speak directly to an applicant’s academic
skills; prior academic study, prior language study,
or other relevant experience; and, optionally,
standardized test scores such as the GRE. Specificadmissions requirements are:
1. A Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) or its equivalentfrom an accredited college or university;
coursework in Buddhist Studies, religious
studies, or other relevant prior coursework is
strongly recommended.
2. Three letters of recommendation attesting to
the applicant’s ability to do graduate-level
work and familiarity with Buddhist thought
and/or practice. Choose people who canspeak knowledgeably and articulately about
your academic and intellectual potential andwill write specific letters. Academic references
are not general character references.
3. A statement of purpose of approximately 500 words that includes (a) your reasons for pursuing
graduate studies at IBS; (b) your specific academic interests and how they fit with the faculty andcourses at IBS; (c) your professional goals and how you see the M.A.B.S. supporting your professional
goals or further academic study; (d) how your academic background prepares you for your proposedcourse of study at IBS.
4. Non-refundable application fee: $40
Optionally, applicants may submit GRE scores from the past five years. GRE verbal score should be atleast 150 and writing score of 4 or above. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to have some priorformal language study in any of the Buddhist canonical or vernacular languages.

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Graduation Requirements
Unit Requirement
All students are required to complete 48 units forcompletion of the degree, including 6 units of “inthesis.” Up to 24 units from a certificate program
may be used in support of this requirement as per
IBS’s stackable curriculum.
All students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and receivea B or better in all required courses.
All students must complete a research-based
thesis project. Six units of “in thesis” must becompleted as part of this requirement as time towrite the thesis and work the student’s advisor.
Required Courses
All students must complete the following 4 courses (some of these courses may be completed as part ofa certificate program):‣ HRHS-1515/8151: Buddhist Traditions of South Asia
‣ HRHS-1518/8152: Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
‣ HRPH-1614/8140: Introduction to Shin Buddhist Thought‣ HR-1630: Methods in the Study of Buddhism
Upon admission to the program, students will be expected to declare a track of study (see below). Eachtrack has additional course requirements.
Master’s Thesis
The M.A.B.S. program culminates in a Master’s Thesis, defended no later than the middle of the student’s
last semester in residence. For more information, please review “Movement Through the Program”
below and the “Thesis Handbook” available on the IBS website.
Satisfactory GPA
Students must maintain an overall grade point average of B or better and receive Bs or better in all
required courses to complete the program.
Languages, Texts, and Translations
Students who intend to pursue further academic study or apply to a PhD program are strongly
encouraged to begin formal language training in any of the Buddhist canonical languages (i.e., Sanskrit,
Pali, Chinese, Tibetan) and related research languages of Buddhist Studies (i.e., Japanese, French,
German). With the Dean’s permission, students may take up to 12 graduate-level (or graduate-level
equivalent) units of language study which may count toward the 48 units for graduation. Please consult
with your advisor within the first semester of study to determine which language(s) may be appropriate.
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Student’s Responsibility
It is the student’s responsibility to familiarize themself with all requirements and policies pertaining
toward the completion of the M.A.B.S. program. Students are encouraged to review the catalog,
handbooks and checklists available on the IBS website, and to consult with their academic advisor early
and often to ensure that they meet all graduation requirements in a timely fashion.

Program Tracks
Upon entrance into the program, students should be prepared to meet with their academic advisor,
declare a track of study, and complete courses required for their respective tracks. Additional
requirements for the tracks of study are as follows, and some of these requirements may be completed aspart of a certificate program as per IBS’s stackable curriculum.
Shin Buddhist Ministry
For students wishing to pursue ordination and service in BCA churches or temples or to develop
substantive knowledge of Jōdo Shinshū history, thought, and practice for further doctoral study, thefollowing courses are required.
‣ HRHS-3250: Seven Pure Land Masters‣ HR-3017/8317: Three Pure Land Sutras‣ HRPH-4566/8453: Works of Shinran I‣ HRHS-3075/8307: History of Shin Buddhism: pre-modern‣ HRIR-2000: Buddhism and World Religions
Plus five electives chosen in consultation with advisor (usually remaining Works of Shinran courses and/or Japanese language study).
* Note that students preparing for Buddhist ministry, priestly, monastic, or other ordination from other Buddhist traditions
may substitute these requirements with courses supporting their own Buddhist education and ministerial development. Sōtō
Zen ministerial aspirants, for example, may complete the Certificate in Sōtō Zen Buddhist studies, take courses focused on
the Zen tradition, the writings of Dōgen, and history of Japanese religions. Please consult with your advisor and have aplan of study approved by the Dean.
Buddhist chaplaincy
For students pursuing careers or service as Buddhist chaplains, or for those with some prior study orexperience as chaplains, the following courses are required.
‣ PSHR-3076: Buddhist Pastoral Care
‣ PSHR-5160: Topics in Buddhist Pastoral Care
‣ HRCE-3002/8340: Buddhist ethics‣ A textual study course
Plus six electives chosen in consultation with advisor.
* Note that students who are interested in pursuing APC certification as professional chaplains may need to complete an
additional year of study and/or the M.Div. program. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with the Chaplaincy
Program Coordinator and/or their academic advisor to ensure that this course of study meets their professional goals.

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Pre-doctoral study
For students pursuing advanced academic degrees, usually at the doctoral level, this track provides for
additional language study and/or translation work.
‣ HR-3300/8330: Terms, Texts, and Translations‣ Language study and/or coursework (either at IBS or via institutional partnerships)‣ Electives chosen in consultation with advisor
Personal enrichment
Students without specific professional goals, those who want to design their own course or study, or thoseinterested in personal or intellectual growth have the option of not declaring a specific track listed above.
In this path, the student must meet with their advisor early in their program and design a course of study
that best supports their interests or personal goals. This course of study must be approved by the Dean.

Program Learning Outcomes and Assessment
Students in the M.A.B.S. program will:
OutcomeAssessed in part throughPLO1

d e v e l o p a c a d e m i c s k i l l s t o g a i n a n d written assignments (final research papers)
demonstrate foundational knowledge of completed for the two-semester “traditions”
Buddhism’s history, traditions, texts, practices, sequence (HRHS-1515 & HRHS-1518)
and doctrines

PLO2

demonstrate and strengthen academic skills final research paper completed in trackthrough specialized study of a specific area or specific intermediate or advanced level course
and reviewed by academic advisor
discipline of Buddhist studies

PLO3

write and defend a research-based capstone thesis proposal (usually completed during the
project or thesis which applies acquired Methods course, HR-1630) and completed
knowledge and skill to their career goals of thesis
service or further study

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Movement Through the Program
The M.A.B.S. program is designed so that students can complete their studies in two years of full-time(12 units per semester) coursework. A normative timeline to completion of the degree follows. Students
who enroll part time or participate in the Exchange Programs will need to adjust their timeline
accordingly. And some program requirements may be completed as per the stackable curriculum model.
Please work with your Academic Advisor closely to ensure that all deadlines are met and that you
progress toward graduation.
Semester 1
Enroll in four (4) three-unit courses, including HRHS-1515 Buddhist Traditions of South Asia, and
HRPH-1614 Introduction to Shin Buddhist Thought.
Meet with Academic Advisor to map out program, discuss possible thesis/research projects, and interest in
language study. Declare track in writing via email to Dean and Registrar.
Semester 2
Enroll in four (4) three-unit courses, including HRHS-1518 Buddhist Traditions of East Asia and HR-1630
Begin the process of identifying members for the thesis committee
Semester 3
Enroll in three (3) three-unit courses, including HR-1630 (if not taken previously), and three units of “inthesis”
Formalize thesis committee and write thesis proposal
Begin writing thesis by end of term and expect to continue writing and getting feedback on drafts
Semester 4
Enroll in three (3) three-unit courses and three units of “in thesis”
Finish “defense draft” of thesis early in the term; schedule thesis defense with Committee and Office of theRegistrar
Defend and file thesis no later than deadline listed in the GTU Extended Calendar—note: these deadlines are
not negotiable.

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Master of Divinity
The chaplaincy program at IBS not only gave me a quality educational experience, it also
provided me with an opportunity to participate in an ecumenical Buddhist community journeying
together in spiritual formation. Even after graduating, I continue to regard the IBS sangha asamong my most enriching and enlightening communities. I’m so grateful for the life-long spiritual
friendships I formed at IBS!
Trent Thornley, class of 2014

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) Degree is a 72-unit graduate professional degree which prepares
students to engage fully and with confidence in ministry, chaplaincy, and related professions as well as
further academic work. The M.Div. program provides a unique opportunity for students to build a richand nuanced understanding of Buddhist traditions at a Buddhist seminary, and, through its relationship to
the GTU and its member schools, a well informed understanding of other faith traditions and the
dynamic religious and spiritual landscape of contemporary society. Diversity and dialogue are an essential
part of the program and support its aim — to develop skilled, thoughtful and effective leaders groundedin the Buddhist tradition, able to think critically and respond constructively to the needs of a changing
world.
Students from all Buddhist traditions are welcome in the IBS M.Div. program. Those seeking ministerial
ordination in a specific tradition should consult with their community to ensure course work meets
ordination requirements. For those students wishing to prepare for Jōdo Shinshū ministry and/or
professional chaplaincy, specialized tracks of study provide additional structure to the M.Div. program.
Additionally, students may consider completing a concurrent certificate program to guide and focus theirstudies.
M.Div. Program Learning Outcomes (PLO)

Students in the M.Div. program will:‣ demonstrate foundational knowledge of Buddhist history, literature, thought, practice, and ethics as thebasis for effective ministry, chaplaincy, or religious leadership;‣ identify and articulate ministerial skills appropriate to their professional goals, using a range of
Buddhist and non-Buddhist sources, and demonstrate how these skills apply to their ministry;‣ gain specific, in-depth, knowledge of the teachings and practices of their own Buddhist tradition andexpress a well-articulated understanding of how that knowledge serves as a guide and resource for theirministry;‣ relate their own tradition to multi-religious, multi-cultural, and multi-Buddhist contexts to support
effective engagement with diverse communities; and‣ produce research projects and demonstrate communication skills through writing, public speaking,and/or dharma talks.
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Admissions Requirements
The admissions process is meant to determine that an applicant is prepared to successfully complete a
graduate-level professional degree program and that the Institute can support the applicant’s academic
goals. Successful applicants may demonstrate their preparedness to do graduate-level work in a variety ofways including a strong statement of purpose; letters of recommendation that speak directly to an
applicant’s academic skills; prior academic study, prior language study, or other relevant experience; and,optionally, standardized test scores such as the GRE. Specific admissions requirements are:1.

A Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) or its equivalent from an accredited college or university; or evidence of
having completed equivalent studies under a different educational system.

2. Three letters of recommendation attesting to the applicant’s ability to do graduate level work, prioracademic experience, and/or prior Buddhist training or experience (such as service to a temple), asappropriate. Choose people who can speak knowledgeably and articulately about your prior academicor other relevant experience as well as your potential professional goals.
3. A statement of purpose of approximately 500 words that includes (a) your reasons for pursuing
graduate studies at IBS; (b) your specific academic interests and how they fit with the faculty andcourses at IBS; (c) your professional goals and how you see the M.Div. supporting you; (d) how youracademic background or relevant prior experience prepares you for your proposed course of study at
IBS.
4. Non-refundable application fee: $40
Optionally, applicants may submit GRE scores from the past five years. GRE verbal score should be atleast 150 and writing score of 4 or above. Applicants may also provide evidence of relevant priorprofessional or academic experience or prior language study.

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Graduation Requirements
All students are required to complete a range ofcourses across four subject areas to provide afoundational basis for Buddhist ministry,
chaplaincy, and religious leadership in an
increasingly interfaith and intercultural world.
Unit Requirement
A total of 72 units is required to complete the
M.Div. degree program, usually divided between
22 three-unit courses plus 6 required “in thesis”
units, usually taken the last two semesters of study.
Required and Elective Courses
All students are required to complete the following four courses with a B or better:‣ HRHS-1515/8151: Buddhist Traditions of South Asia
‣ HRHS-1518/8152: Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
‣ HRPH-1614/8140: Introduction to Shin Buddhist Thought‣ HR-1630: Methods in the Study of Buddhism‣ HRIR-2000: Buddhism and World Religions (or another IR course with Dean’s approval)‣ PSHR-3076: Buddhist Pastoral Care I‣ HRCE-3014: Issues in Buddhist Ministry
Additionally, students must complete one course from each of the following four (4) subject areas:
1. Buddhist history (course codes HR, HS)
2. Buddhist ethics (CE, RS)
3. Buddhist literature/texts (SA or a textual study course with Dean’s approval)
4. Buddhist practice/ritual (FE, LS, HM)
Field Education
Students are also required to complete at least 3 but not more than 9 units of Field Education (course
codes FE). Please refer to the “Field Education Handbook” on the IBS website for additional
information. Students should meet with the Field Education Director early and regularly during theirprogram.
Program Tracks
Upon entrance into the program, students should be prepared to meet with their academic advisor, andif they choose, declare a track of study, and complete courses required for their respective tracks.
Additional requirements for the tracks of study are as follows.

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Jōdo Shinshū Ministerial Studies
Students pursuing ordination as Shin Buddhist ministers are also required to complete the “Works of
Shinran” sequence of courses. Consult with your academic advisor and/or the Shin Buddhist Ministerial
Program Coordinator for more information.
Buddhist Chaplaincy Studies
Students in the Buddhist Chaplaincy program are also required to complete PSHR-5160: Topics in
Buddhist Pastoral Care; and one additional course in pastoral care either at IBS or one of the GTU
member schools. Consult with your academic advisor and/or the Buddhist Chaplaincy Program
Coordinator for more information.
Research-based thesis or project
The M.Div. program culminates in a Master’s Thesis, defended no later than the middle of the student’s
last semester in residence. For more information, please review “Movement Through the Program”
below and the Thesis Handbook” available on the IBS website.
M.Div. Foreign Language Policy
Whereas no language competency is explicitly required for M.Div. students, an understanding andappreciation of the textual history of the Buddhist tradition is a central aim across all our degree
programs. Students are thus strongly encouraged to take the “Texts, Terms, and Translations” course,
offered biennially.
Additionally, IBS recognizes the practical necessity of language study for our ministerial and chaplaincy
students. Ministerial students are therefore strongly encouraged to engage in Japanese language study
while in residence. Chaplaincy students are strongly encouraged to develop language skills relevant totheir career goals. Students should consult with their Academic Advisor within the first semester of study
to determine which language(s) may be appropriate.
In some cases, up to 12 units of graduate level language courses may be used toward the unit requirement
for the M.Div. program, with prior approval of the Dean.
Satisfactory GPA
Students must maintain an overall grade point average of B or better and receive Bs or better in the above
four required courses to complete the program.
Student’s Responsibility
It is the student’s responsibility to familiarize themself with all requirements and policies pertaining
toward the completion of the M.Div. program. Students are encouraged to review the catalog, handbooks
and checklists available on the IBS website, and to consult with their academic advisor early and often to
ensure that they meet all graduation requirements in a timely fashion.

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Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) and Curriculum Map
The program learning outcomes (PLOs) of IBS’s M.Div. program are best understood as a set of internesting goals, not steps in a linear progression through the program. Students come to IBS with a varietyof life experiences, enroll as both full- and part-time students, and thus proceed through the program attheir own pace. Knowledge and skills acquired at one phase of the program are sharpened and refined inlater stages, and students thus have the opportunity to return to areas of study for further engagement
and refinement.
Students in IBS’s Master of Divinity program will:
OutcomeAssessed in part throughPLO1

demonstrate foundational knowledge of written assignments (final research papers)
Buddhist history, literature, thought, practice, submitted in the two-semester “traditions”
and ethics as the basis for effective ministry, sequence (HRHS1515 & HRHS1518)
chaplaincy, or religious leadership

PLO2

identify and articulate ministerial skills evaluations completed by student and fieldappropriate to their professional goals, using a supervisor as per the contextual education
range of Buddhist and non-Buddhist sources, handbook
and demonstrate how these skills apply to theirministry

PLO3

gain specific, in-depth, knowledge of the final paper or project completed for Buddhist
teachings and practices of their own Buddhist Pastoral Care (PSHR-3076)
tradition and express a well-articulated
understanding of how that knowledge serves asa guide and resource for their ministry

PLO4

relate their own tradition to multi-religious, final paper or project completed for Buddhism
multi-cultural, and multi-Buddhist contexts to and World Religions (HRIR-2000)
support effective engagement with diverse
communities

PLO5

produce research projects and demonstrate thesis proposal (usually completed during thecommunication skills through writing, public Methods course, HR-1630) and completed
thesisspeaking, and/or dharma talks

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Movement Through the Program
The M.Div. program is designed so that students can complete their studies in three years of full-time (12units per semester) coursework. A normative timeline to completion of the degree follows. Students who
enroll part time or participate in the Exchange Programs will need to adjust their timeline accordingly.
And some program requirements may be completed as per the stackable curriculum model. Please workwith your Academic Advisor closely to ensure that all deadlines are met and that you progress toward
graduation.
Semester 1
Enroll in four (4) three-unit courses, including HRHS-1515 Buddhist Traditions of South Asia
Meet with Academic Advisor to map out course of study; discuss potential field education field sites;
discuss possible avenues of research for the thesis.
Semester 2
Enroll in four (4) three-unit courses, ideally including HRHS-1518 Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
Semester 3
Enroll in four (4) three-unit courses, being attentive to program requirements.
Locate field education field site.
Semester 4
Enroll in four (4) three-unit courses, being attentive to program requirements.
Complete field education (CE) units.
By end of the academic year, student should begin conceptualizing thesis projectSemester 5
Enroll in three (3) three-unit courses, including Methods course (if not taken previously), and three units of "inthesis"Begin writing thesis/project, expect to continue writing and getting feedback on drafts
Semester 6
Enroll in three (3) three-unit courses and three units of "in thesis"
Finish "defense draft" early in the semester; schedule defense with Committee and Office of the Registrar
Defend and file final project no later than deadline listed in the GTU Extended Calendar—note: thesedeadlines are not negotiable.

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Master of Arts (Buddhist Studies concentration)
The Concentration in Buddhist Studies at the Graduate Theological Union
A necessarily interdisciplinary and often cross-cultural field, the study of Buddhism at the GTU iswell balanced with anthropological, cultural, and area studies perspectives. Students may
choose to focus on one or more Buddhist traditions from the origin of the tradition to thepresent, studied in historical-cultural contexts, in Asia or the West. Faculty have close working
relationships with the Buddhist studies groups at both the University of California, Berkeley andStanford, providing students ample opportunity for professional growth.

The Master of Arts is an academic degree offered in cooperation with the member schools and Centersof the GTU. The program provides ecumenical and interreligious learning opportunities, and students
have access to courses offered throughout the consortium, and many courses at UC Berkeley. The
purpose of the program is to provide a basic understanding of theological or religious studies as
preparation for doctoral study or as an academic foundation for secondary school teaching, educationalor social justice ministries, or religious leadership in the non-profit sector.
Students who complete the MA program will be able to demonstrate focused knowledge in the field ofstudy represented by a chosen concentration; demonstrate general knowledge of several different
approaches to theological and religious studies; engage in respectful dialogue with practitioners ofanother religious tradition; and produce research projects, each with a clearly formulated thesis statementthat is supported by appropriate evidence from primary and secondary sources and communicated in an
effective scholarly presentation.
GTU MA students are required to affiliate with a member school (such as the Institute of Buddhist
Studies), and students in the Buddhist Studies concentration will affiliate with IBS. Their advisor will be amember of the IBS faculty, and the IBS will serve as their primary intellectual community. Students in the
Buddhist Studies concentration are eligible for IBS institutional scholarships and grants.
The GTU MA is a two-year degree program requiring a total of fourteen (14) three-unit academic
courses plus six units of thesis work. Early in the second year of residence, all MA students are required
to demonstrate proficiency in at least one modern foreign language relevant to their field of study as
determined by their advisors with the approval of the member school dean or center/affiliate director.
Non-native speakers of English may, with permission, certify English as their second language. Twocourses must be taken outside the student’s school of affiliation.
Students wishing to complete the GTU MA with a concentration in Buddhist Studies should consult the
GTU website and contact the GTU Admissions Office. Whereas this catalog has made all good faithefforts to present accurate information, the GTU catalog and MA Handbook will always contain themost up-to-date and relevant information on degree program admissions and graduation requirements.

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Expectations for Online Learning
In order to succeed in IBS’s online courses and certificate programs, students should be computer literate
and have access to the following technology:
1. Regular access to a computer and a reliable internet connection.
2. An email account which will be used to verify a student’s identity when logging into the Moodle
learning platform. (You will be assigned an IBS email account when you are admitted to a
program.)
3. A modern web browser to access the Moodle platform (Chrome and Firefox are more reliable on
PCs; the most recent version of Apple Safari on Macs) as well as to do online research. Mobile app
versions of Moodle (such as for tablets or the iPad) generally have limited features; we recommend
students access Moodle via a laptop or desktop computer.
4. A PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat or Apple Preview.
5. A word processing program such as Microsoft Office.
6. The ability to listen to and watch audio and video files on your computer.
7. Many online courses combine synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous modalities. Synchronouscourses will require you to make time in your schedule to meet with your instructor and classmates
similar to an on-site course. Synchronous meetings are usually conducted via Zoom or other videoconferencing software.
Technical support
IBS utilizes the Moodle learning platform administered by the Graduate Theological Union. The GTU
offers ample technical support for students and faculty. Once logged into your Moodle account, you willfind both resource pages as well as a chat box to speak to a staff person for assistance. The chat feature isalso included on the GTU library webpage.

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Exchange Programs & Affiliated Institutions
Exchange Programs
The Institute of Buddhist Studies is pleased to provide the following student exchange programs for our
regular degree program students, giving them the opportunity to study Buddhism either in Japan or
Taiwan.
Ryukoku Univeristy,
Kyoto, Japan

Dharma Drum Institute of Liberal Arts
Taipei, Taiwan

Each year two students from IBS are able to study
Buddhism at Ryukoku University in Kyoto, Japan.
This program is open to degree program students
only.

Each year two students from IBS are able to study
Buddhism at Dharma Drum Institute of Liberal
Arts (DILA), located just outside Taipei, Taiwan.
This program is open to degree program students
only.

Up to twelve units of credit may be earned in thisprogram. Grounding in conversational and basic
reading Japanese is required. Opportunities tostudy Japanese language are available through thisprogram, but for all other coursework thelanguage of instruction is Japanese. Tuition andfees for this program are the same as for regular
IBS classes, and are payable directly to IBS.
Housing is provided by Ryukoku University.
Transportation, food and other incidentals are atstudent’s own expense.

Up to twelve units of credit may be earned in thisprogram. Grounding in conversational and basic
reading Chinese is recommended, but notrequired. The program provides opportunities tostudy Buddhism in English and to simultaneously
study Chinese language. Tuition and fees for thisprogram are the same as for regular IBS classes,
and are payable directly to IBS. Food and housing
are provided by DILA. Transportation, study
materials, other food and incidentals are atstudent’s own expense.

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Affiliated Institutions

Graduate Theological Union
Founded by ecumenical pioneers in 1962, theGraduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley,
California, is the largest and most diverse
partnership of seminaries and graduate schools in
the United States. The interfaith approach attracts
leading theologians, scholars of religion, andstudents from around the world who are pursuing
new models for inter-religious collaboration inteaching, research, ministry, and service.
Study at the GTU is intellectually challenging andrich in resources. As a consortium, we have thelargest theological faculty in one location in the
United States. Students pursuing a Ph.D., D.Min.,or M.A. share a world-class library, access tomore than 700 courses across member schools
and academic disciplines, and a strong sense ofcommunity. Here, honest exchanges arise, world
views expand, understanding deepens.

GTU Member Schools
There are currently eight member schools of the
Graduate Theological Union:‣ Berkeley School of Theology (BST)‣ Church Divinity School of the Pacific (CDSP)‣ Dominican School of Philosophy and
Theology (DSPT)‣ Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS)‣ Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara
University (JSC-SCU)‣ Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary of
California Lutheran University (PLTS-CLU)‣ Pacific School of Religion (PSR)‣ San Francisco Theological Seminary (SFTS)
The Institute of Buddhist Studies became amember school of the GTU in 2021.
IBS is the first non-Christian seminary to join the
consortium bringing true religious diversity to
the GTU community at all levels, from the Boardof Trustees to faculty and students.

The GTU is both a graduate school and aconsortium of schools, as well as an agency for avariety of special programs and services. In its
educational programs, the GTU draws upon its
founding theological communities and works
cooperatively with the University of California,
Berkeley. Structurally, the GTU is a distinct entity,
governed by an independent Board of Trustees, which includes members nominated by the participating
seminaries. It is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and by the Western Association of
Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission. It is also a member of the Council on
Graduate Studies in Religion.
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The GTU is fully committed to the principles of academic freedom as set forth by those associations andby the American Association of University Professors. It does not discriminate on the basis of race,color, national or ethnic origin, religious affiliation, age, sex, or handicap in its employment policies or in
the administration of its educational programs, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, andother school administrative programs. For the M.A. and Ph.D. programs administered by the GTU,
faculty members of the schools constitute a single graduate faculty.
The GTU Doctoral Program

The IBS does not offer a Ph.D. program. However, students completing either the M.A. or M.A.B.S.
programs are strongly encouraged to apply for admission to the GTU Ph.D. program with aconcentration in Buddhist Studies. While the Ph.D. program is a completely separate entity, M.A. students
have the opportunity during their tenure to work with GTU faculty, allowing them to become familiar
with the GTU culture. IBS is committed to encouraging capable students interested in pursuing thedoctoral degree.
University of California, Berkeley

Through a cross-registration arrangement between GTU and UCB, IBS degree program students are able
to take courses for credit (one course per semester) at UCB. The Department of Asian Languages,
Department of South and Southeast Asian Languages and the Religious Studies groups, in particular,
offer a wide range of courses in religion, Asian thought and languages that complement the GTU andIBS course offerings. Students may further take advantage of the resources available at Stanford
University, located in Palo Alto, California with its strong programs in East Asian Buddhism and religions.

Center for Buddhist Education
Inspired by Shinran Shonin’s legacy, the mission of the Center for Buddhist Education (CBE) is toprovide diverse learning opportunities to deepen the understanding and appreciation of Buddha’s
wisdom and compassion among Sangha leaders and the broader community.
CBE organizes a number of educational programs throughout the year and across North America. CBE
is primarily responsible for the Minister’s Assistant Program which prepares women and men for
Buddhist leadership in their sanghas and ordination from Hongwanji-ha in Kyoto, Japan.
IBS cooperates with CBE to host academic and educational programs (such as the Pacific Seminar) as
well as the MAP program and other practicum series for Shin Buddhist ministerial aspirants.

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Sati Institute for Theravada Studies
The Sati Institute for Theravada Studies, in the Insight Mediation tradition and led by Jennifer Block, Gil
Fronsdal, and Paul Haller, balances scholarly inquiry with serious meditation practice. The Institute of
Buddhist Studies has partnered with the Sati Institute to provide both Buddhist chaplaincy education and
the Certificate in Theravada Studies.
International Association of Shin Buddhist Studies
The International Association of Shin Buddhist Studies (IASBS) was founded in 1982 with the objectiveof developing Shin and Pure Land Buddhist Studies and facilitating exchange of views and information
among its members. It is the only worldwide organization focused on Jōdo Shinshū and Pure Land
Buddhist studies.
Members are scholars and academics, priests and laypersons affiliated with the Jōdo, Jōdo Shinshū, andother Pure Land Buddhist traditions as well as scholars with an interest in Buddhist studies and religious
studies more generally. The IASBS welcomes participation of those with wide range of interests andspecialization within and beyond Pure Land Buddhism.
The Institute of Buddhist Studies has long been a supporter and partner of the IASBS; many of ourfaculty have been long-time members of the Association, and IBS assists the IASBS in the production of
the Association’s journal, The Pure Land.
IBS students, especially those studying Shin Buddhism or preparing for careers in the ministry, areencouraged to become members of the Association.
Ryukoku and Ohtani Universities
Representing the Nishi and Higashi branches of Jōdo Shinshū, Ryukoku and Ohtani Universities areamong the top Buddhist universities in Japan.
IBS has strong institutional connections to both universities allowing for scholarly exchanges andcollaborative research projects, and a student exchange program with Ryukoku University.

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The Faculty of IBS
Core Faculty
The Core Faculty is responsible for the Institute’s academic program, assessment and review, and serve as
faculty advisors for degree program students.
Rev. Dr. Daijaku Judith Kinst
daijaku@shin-ibs.edu
Director, Certificate in Sōto Zen Buddhist Studies
Ph.D. and M.A., California Institute of Integral Studies
B.A., Occidental College
Sōtō Zen Buddhism, Buddhist chaplaincy, Buddhism and psychology
Dr. Nancy G. Lin
nlin@shin-ibs.edu
Associate Professor of Himalayan and South Asian Studies
Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley
M.A., Columbia University
A.B., Harvard University
Buddhist pastoral care, Himalayan Buddhism
Dr. Scott A. Mitchellscott@shin-ibs.edu
Rev. Yoshitaka Tamai Professor of Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Studies
Dean of Students and Faculty Affairs
Ph.D., Graduate Theological Union
M.A., Institute of Buddhist Studies
B.A., San Francisco State University
Buddhism in the West, Buddhist modernism, Critical Race Theory
Rev. Dr. Takashi Miyajitmiyaji@shin-ibs.edu
H.E. Kosho Ohtani Professor of Shin Buddhist Studies
Assistant Professor of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhist Studies
Ph.D. and M.A., Ryukoku University
M.A., Institute of Buddhist Studies
B.A., University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley
Shin Buddhist doctrine, hermeneutics, and exegesis; contemporary Shin Buddhism

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50

Dr. Richard K. Payne
rkpayne@shin-ibs.edu
Yeah Numata Professor of Japanese Buddhist Studies
Chair, IBS Publications Committee
Ph.D., Graduate Theological Union
M.A., Nyingma Institute
B.A. and M.A., San Jose State University
Tantric Buddhist ritual, Buddhism and psychology, Japanese Buddhism

Research Fellows
Research Fellows have an ongoing relationship with the Institute, provide additional scholarly expertise,
and are able to serve on thesis committees.
Dr. Gil Fronsdal
Buddhist Chaplaincy Training Program and Theravada Buddhist Studies
Dr. Natalie F. QuliSouth Asian Buddhism and Anthropology of Buddhism
Rev. Dr. Mutsumi Wondra
Jōdo Shinhū Buddhist Studies

Other Faculty
Rev. Harry Bridge
Shin Buddhist Ministerial Program Coordinator
Jōdo Shinshū Buddhist Studies
Dr. Country Bruntz
Buddhist medicine, Chinese Buddhism
Dr. Thomas Calobrisi
Buddhist Modernism, Method in Buddhist Studies
Rev. CJ Sokugan Dunford
Buddhist ministry
Rev. Dr. Taigen Leighton
Zen Buddhism

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51

Rev. Charlie Korin Pokorny
Buddhist Philosophy and Zen Buddhism
Dr. Tori Montrose
Buddhist Studies, Japanese Buddhism
Dr. Grace Ramswick
Buddhist Studies, South and Central Asian Buddhism
Bhante Seelawimala
Theravada Buddhism
Dr. Luke Thompson
Buddhist Japanese
Dr. Emily Wu
Buddhism and World Religions, Chinese Religions

Emeritus Faculty
Rev. Dr. Seigen H. Yamaoka
M.A. and Litt.D., Ryukoku University
M.R.E. and D.Min., Pacific School of Religion
B.A. California State University, Fresno

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IBS Catalog 2022-2023

Course Catalog
The following is the master IBS Course Catalog representing all courses IBS has historically offered.
Please consult the IBS website for courses being offered in the 2022-2023 academic year.
IBS and GTU courses are grouped by fields of study identified by a the following list of course codes.
Course numbers refer to the level of the course and whether the course is offered in an online modality
as per the chart below.
Course CodesRA

Art and Religion

HR

Cultural & Historical Studies of Religions

CE

Ethics and Social Theory

FE

Field Education

HS

HistoryHM

Homiletics

IRInterreligious Studies

LS

Liturgical Studies

PH

Philosophy & Philosophy of Religion

PS

Religion and Psychology

RS

Religion and Society

SA

Sacred Texts

SC

Spiritual CareED

Theology & Education

Course Numbers
1000

Introductory level courses

2000-3000

Intermediate level courses

4000

Advanced level courses

5000-6000

Doctoral level courses

8000

Online courses (second number represents course level)

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54

Courses required for most of our degree and certificate programs are offered on a rotating basis
according to the following schedule. Consult the IBS website and your academic advisor prior toregistration to ensure you are meeting program requirements.
CourseOffered every…

HRHS-1515 Buddhist Traditions of South Asia

fall semester

HRHS-1518 Buddhist Traditions of East Asia

spring semester

HR-8107 Intro to Buddhism and Buddhist Studies

fall semester

HRPH-1614 Intro to Shin Buddhist Thought

fall semester

HR-3040 Intro to Zen Buddhism

every spring

HR-1630 Methods in the Study of Buddhism

fall semester

HRHS-3250 Seven Masters

every other spring, alternating with HR-3017

HR-3017 Three Pure Land Sutras

every other spring, alternating with HRPS-3250

HRIR-2000 Buddhism and World Religions

usually every fall

HRHS-8307 History of the Shin Tradition

usually every fall

HRPH-4566 Works of Shinran I

usually every spring

PSHR-3076 Buddhist Pastoral Careusually every fall

HRCE-3014 Issues in Buddhist Ministry

usually every spring

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Introductory Courses
No background expected. These courses provide basic introductions to the area of study.
INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHISM AND BUDDHIST STUDIES
HR 1501, HR 8107
This course introduces the student to the Buddhist tradition and the academic study of Buddhism. The
course covers the development of Buddhism across Asia, its history, major texts, lineages, practices anddoctrines. Secondarily, we will discuss the academic discipline of Buddhist studies, its own historicaldevelopment, methodologies, orientations and assumptions. It is required for the Certificate in Buddhist
Studies.
INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHIST MEDITATION
HR 1508
An examination of samatha and vipassana methods of Buddhist meditation.
INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHIST THOUGHT
HR 1510Introduces the major ideas of Buddhist thought in the context of contemporary religious andphilosophical discussions. Recommended for introductory study.
BUDDHIST JAPANESE I
HR 1512, HR 8145
Introduces basics of Japanese grammar, vocabulary, kana and kanji, and dictionary work, including both
Buddhist vocabulary and dictionaries. Work with paragraph length selections from modern popular
Japanese publications on Buddhism.
BUDDHIST JAPANESE II
HR 1513, HR 8146
Continues to develop technical Buddhist vocabulary in modern Japanese. As well as referencing classicalJapanese, the Buddhist terms in Sanskrit and Chinese related to key technical terms will also be
introduced. More complex grammar and longer selections will be worked with.
BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF SOUTH ASIA
HRHS 1515, HRHS 8151
Introduces the Buddhist traditions as they originate in India and developed throughout south andsoutheast Asia. First half of the required yearlong introductory survey of the entire Buddhist tradition.
Usually offered each fall semester.

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BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF EAST ASIA
HRHS 1518, HRHS 8152
Introduces the Buddhist traditions transmitted to East Asia and the development of new traditions.
Second half of the required yearlong introductory survey of the entire Buddhist tradition. Usuallyoffered each spring semester.
BUDDHIST TEXTS: PALI I
HR 1525
An introduction to the language of the Pāli Tipikaka. Grammar lessons are based on the language of theearly nikayas (sutta collections). By the end of the first semester, students can expect to have a firm graspof basic Pāli grammar, a working vocabulary of roughly 600 words, and competency in reading standard
prose passages of nikaya material with minimal assistance.
BUDDHIST TEXTS: PALI II
HR 1511
Intermediate level Pāli grammar and extensive readings drawn from the early nikayas (sutta collections).
By the end of the second semester, students can expect to have a firm grasp of Pāli grammar andcompetence in reading complex passages of prose and verse nikaya material. Pre-requisite: Pāli I or
equivalent. Auditors with faculty permission.
LIFE AND TEACHINGS OF THE BUDDHA
HR 1550
Course examines the life and fundamental teachings of Śākyamuni Buddha, providing an understandingof the Buddha’s time and world. It then follows the developments in the story of the Buddha as the
popularity of Buddhism increases and it spreads throughout Asia. Recommended for introductory study.
LIFE AND TEACHINGS OF THERAVADA BUDDHIST MASTERS
HR 1551
Course examines the life and fundamental teachings of Buddhist Masters in the Theravada traditions,providing an understanding of the how the teachings have been practiced and passed down by the
Buddhist Masters in Southeast Asia. It then examines contemporary Buddhist Masters, in Asia and in theWest. Recommended for introductory study.
RITUAL, PRACTICE AND CEREMONY IN BUDDHISM
HR 1570
This course will examine ritual and practice in the Buddhist tradition, as well as a practicum session
devoted specifically to chanting. Topics will include the relationship between practice, doctrine, and ritual,
ritual architecture, and historical and modern examples of ritual practice. Offered every other semester.

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INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF THERAVADA BUDDHIST TRADITIONS
HR 1596
This course will survey the traditions of Buddhism commonly referred to as Theravada, with reference totheir doctrine, development, and concrete localizations throughout South and Southeast Asia, as well as
the contemporary West. We will also interrogate the shifting representations of these traditions thatemerge in their interface with modernity. The course will incorporate both foundational primary texts andrepresentative secondary scholarship in an attempt to broadly chart the living and historical dimensionsof these traditions and the terms of their contemporary study.
INTRODUCTION TO SHIN BUDDHIST THOUGHT
HRPH 1614, HR 8140
Introduces the major ideas of Shin thought in the context of contemporary religious and philosophic
discussions. Required course. One of the following is needed as prerequisite: HR 1510 Introduction to
Buddhist thought, HR 1550 Life and Teachings of the Buddha, or instructor’s permission.
READINGS IN EARLY BUDDHIST TEXTSSA forthcoming, SA forthcoming [was HR 1615/8160]
Texts selected by instructor from the early Buddhist tradition. May include Pāli and early Mahayana texts,
read in English translation. May be repeated for credit when a different text is chosen for study.
METHODS IN THE STUDY OF BUDDHISM
HR 1630
A survey of different approaches to the study of Buddhism, including textual, anthropological,
sociological, historical, and bibliographic. Particular attention will be given to contemporary criticalstudies, appropriate historical and social contextualization of doctrinal claims, and relations between
Buddhism and other religions in the modern world.
SHIN BUDDHIST SERVICES AND CEREMONIESFE 1810
Teaches chanting and ceremonial required for ministerial service in the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha
tradition. Ministerial aspirants are required to take this course, offered every other semester.

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Intermediate Courses
More specialized, some background expected. Primarily for M.A. level students.
BUDDHISM AND WORLD RELIGIONSHRIR 2000
Contextualizes the history, thought, and practice of Buddhism within the broad sweep of world religions,
historically and contemporarily.
CONCURRENT FIELD STUDY – SELF PLACEMENT
FE-2400
1.5 hours per week on-campus class and 4.5 hours per week on-site basic field education. 1 semester longcourse. Fulfills Field Education requirement. Pass/Fail only. To enroll, student must have madearrangements for an approved field education placement with the Field Education advisor. [Auditors
excluded]
BUDDHISM AND THE WEST
HR 2849, HR 2850, HR 8344
This course surveys the history of Buddhist traditions in the West. Beginning with 19th century colonial
contact and Asian immigration through 21st century global exchanges, we will explore the various waysthat Buddhists, Buddhist communities, and Buddhist ideas have come to and developed in Westerncontexts. Previous Buddhist studies courses helpful but not required.
MEDITATION IN THE THERAVADA TRADITION
HR 2990
Meditation practice is important to the path of liberation taught in Theravada Buddhism. The core
meditation practices of Theravada Buddhism have their origin in the teachings of the Buddha. Thisseminar will present core principles, teachings, and practices of meditation that are found in the early Pāli
discourses as well as in later Theravada Buddhism, including the West. Meditation techniques will beassigned for regular home practice. Grading will be based on a mid-term take home essay, and a final
research paper; short reflective essays and a meditation journal are required for completing the class. The
class is suitable for M.A. and M.Div. students.
READINGS IN THERAVADA TEXTSSA forthcoming [was HR 2992]
Introduces and closely examines major Theravada sutras in English translation. May be augmented withwork on text in canonic language(s). HRHS 1515 Buddhist Traditions of South Asia and HRHS 1518
Buddhist Traditions of East Asia are recommended as background. Fulfills the textual studies (BiblicalStudies or Sacred Texts) requirement for the GTU MA.

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HISTORY OF THE PURE LAND TRADITION
HRHS 8350
Devotion to Amitabha and Amitayus Buddhas originates in medieval India, and is an integral part ofMahayana religious culture. Today, such devotional practice forms one of the most popular forms of
Buddhism, and is found in Tibet, China, Korea, Vietnam, Japan and the West. [Note: this course wasretired in 2010; Shin Buddhist ministerial students are now required to complete HRHS 3250.]SHIN BUDDHIST THEOLOGY
HR 8457
An examination of a range of theological issues raised by a contemporary consideration of Shin
Buddhist thought, focusing on questions of ethics, human nature, faith and salvation. Lecture andseminar format. Required preparation: HR 1614 Introduction to Shin Buddhist thought, or faculty
permission.
BUDDHIST ETHICS
HRCE 3002, HRCE 8340
A survey of the role of ethical teachings in Buddhism. Together with meditation (samādhi) and wisdom(prajñā), ethics (sila) is considered to be one of the foundations of awakening.
CHINESE BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY
HRPH 3006
Study of one of the schools of Chinese Buddhist thought, such as Huayan, Tiantai, Sanlun, Chan, andMijiao. While reading primary sources in translation will be central, attention will also be given to textual,
doctrinal, historical, and social aspects of the different philosophical traditions. May be repeated when adifferent school is being studied.
JAPANESE BUDDHISM
HRHS 3009
This seminar will focus on Japanese Buddhism in the modern period. Format: seminar. Evaluation:
Participation and term paper.
INDIAN BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY
HRPH 3011
Study of one of the schools of Indian Buddhist thought, such as abhidharma/abhidhamma,
Madhyamaka, Yogācara, and tathāgatagarbha. While reading primary sources in translation will be central,
attention will also be given to the textual, doctrinal, historical, and social aspects of the different
philosophic traditions. May be repeated for credit when a different school is being studied.

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BUDDHIST CHAPLAINCYPSHR 3013
This two-semester sequence of training is offered by the Sati Center (Redwood City, CA) in affiliation
with IBS. Over the course of ten months, through discussion, readings, meditation, and internship, thestudent will not only learn about chaplaincy, but begin to develop the necessary skills and understandings
for compassionate service to others who are in need, whether they are Buddhists or not. Course limited
to IBS students. Both semesters must be completed for credit to be awarded. NOTE: To be accepted in
the course, a separate application must be submitted directly to the Sati Center with a $50 application fee.
Student will be interviewed, and if accepted, will pay a separate tuition for two semesters to the Sati
Center. Faculty Consent required; interview required; auditors excluded.
ISSUES IN BUDDHIST MINISTRY
HRCE 3014
Explore the difficulties and direction in Buddhist Ministry within the Western context. Also, through aperson-centered educational process, explore ways and means to develop one’s personal ministry for thewest. Course is for MA or MDiv students with an emphasis on ministry.
TIBETAN BUDDHISM
HRHS 3014, HRHS 8301
A survey of the history, teachings, doctrines, practices, and textual traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.
Attention will also be given to basic introduction to the traditions of Indian thought that form the basis
for the polemical nature of Tibetan scholasticism.
READINGS IN VAJRAYANA TEXTSSA 8318
Introduces a major Vajrayana (tantric or esoteric Buddhist) tantra, commentary, ancillary text, or set oftexts in English translation. Different texts may be selected depending on their significance for various
Buddhist traditions of Asia. May be augmented with work on text in canonic language(s). HRHS 1515
Buddhist Traditions of South Asia and HRHS 1518 Buddhist Traditions of East Asia are recommended
as background. Fulfills the textual studies requirement for the degree programs. May be repeated for
credit when a different text is chosen for study.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF BUDDHISM I: FOUNDATIONS IN BUDDHISTPSYCHOLOGICAL THOUGHTHRPS 8320
An examination of the development of psychological theories in the abhidharma, Yogācara andtathāgatagarbha systems of thought, particularly through the reading of primary sources in translation.
May be repeated for credit when different primary texts are being studied.

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PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF BUDDHISM II: INTERFACING WITH WESTERNPSYCHOLOGYHRPS 3016
Explores the similarities and difference between classical Indian Buddhist psychological thought(abhidharma, and Yogācara) and Western psychologies. Of particular concern is the question of whether
the two kinds of systems have the same fundamental ideas about human existence, conceptions of theself, our relations with others, and the structure of the mind.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF BUDDHISM III
HRPS 8322
This course presents Buddhist psychologies as they evolved over the centuries, and Psychology in its
several forms in the Anglophone literature. Many of the topics of particular importance in the Buddhist
traditions find parallels, resonances, or denials in modern American psychology. The developments of
Buddhist psychology found in Yogacara, Tathagatagarbha, Madhyamaka, and subsequent traditions are
considered.
READINGS IN MAHAYANA TEXTSSA forthcoming, SA forthcoming [was HR 3017/8317]
Introduces a major Mahāyāna sūtra or śastra in English translation. May be augmented with work on text
in canonic language(s). Usually alternates annually between the three Pure Land sūtras (required ofministerial aspirants) and other Mahāyāna texts. HRHS 1515 Buddhist Traditions of South Asia and
HRHS 1518 Buddhist Traditions of East Asia are recommended as background. Fulfills the textual
studies (Biblical Studies or Sacred Texts) requirement for the GTU MA.
ZEN BUDDHISM
HR 3040, HR 8150
A survey of the history, teachings, doctrines, practices and textual traditions of Zen Buddhism as thistradition developed in China, Korea, Japan, and its contemporary transmission to the West. Sociohistorical aspects of the tradition’s development and history will also be considered.
ISSUES IN SHIN BUDDHIST MINISTRY
HRFE 3076
Explores the difficulties and direction of Shin Buddhist Ministry within the Western context.
BUDDHIST JAPANESE III
HR 3060
This course introduces high intermediate Japanese grammar. It is focused on understanding compoundand complex sentences. We also analyze why subjects and phrases are omitted in typical Japanese
sentences. Students will acquire the knowledge of multiple language equivalents (Sanskrit, Chinese,
Tibetan) and the corresponding concepts within Buddhist thought. Students will continue to build uponknowledge of Buddhist terminology and kanji.

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BUDDHIST JAPANESE IV
HR 3061, HR 8359
Students will be required to read extended text selections in Japanese. Discourse level grammar andsentence analysis will be studied in depth. Students will continue to build upon knowledge of Buddhist
terminology and kanji. This course also introduces basics of classical Japanese.
HISTORY OF THE SHIN BUDDHIST TRADITION: PRE- MODERNHRHS 3075, HRHS 8307
This course examines the history of the Shin Buddhist tradition focusing on the formation of the
tradition by Shinran and its revitalization by Rennyo, as well as further developments into the Tokugawa
era. Required of ministerial aspirants. HRHS 3250 History of the Pure Land Tradition: Seven Masters
recommended as background.
HISTORY OF THE SHIN BUDDHIST TRADITION: MODERNHRHS 3074, HRHS 8309
This course takes the history of the Shin Buddhist tradition forward from the seven masters. Required ofministerial aspirants. HRHS 3250 History of the Pure Land Tradition: Seven Masters recommended as
background.
BUDDHIST PASTORAL CARE I
PSHR 3076
Examines the application of Buddhist thought in the context of a pastoral counseling relationship. Just as
the Buddha adjusted his teaching to the needs of his audiences, attention will be given to individual
situations as the frame for counseling, in contrast to the imposition of doctrinal views. Ethical and legal
limitations on the counseling relation will be covered.
SCIENCE AND BUDDHISM
HR 3100
Examination of the relation between modern science (as method, as accepted theories, as institution), andBuddhist thought. The development of scientific thought within Buddhism itself will also be considered.
For example, cosmologies, engineering, embryology, and logic, all form important contextualizing
elements of the Buddhist path to awakening.
ESOTERIC BUDDHISM
HR 3101
A survey of the history, teachings, doctrines, practices, and textual traditions of esoteric, or tantric,
Buddhism. Particular focus may be given to Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, or Japanese forms of esoteric
Buddhism. As appropriate attention will also be given to basic introduction to the traditions of Indiantantra that provided the religious context for the development of the Buddhist tantric tradition.

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TOPICS IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF EAST ASIA
HRPH 3242
Specialized topic related to the history of Buddhist thought and practice as it developed in East Asia isselected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different. HRHS 1518 Buddhist
Traditions of East Asia recommended as background.
TOPICS IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF SOUTH ASIA
HRPH 3243
Specialized topic related to the history of Buddhist thought and practice as it developed in South Asia isselected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different. HRHS 1515 Buddhist
Traditions of South Asia recommended as background.
TOPICS IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF SOUTHEAST ASIA
NEW COURSE
Specialized topic related to the history of Buddhist thought and practice as it developed in Southeast Asia
is selected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different. HRHS 1515/ HRHS
8151 Buddhist Traditions of South Asia recommended as background.
TOPICS IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF CENTRAL ASIA
NEW COURSE
Specialized topic related to the history of Buddhist thought and practice as it developed in Central Asia,
selected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different. HRHS 1518/HRHS 8152
Buddhist Traditions of East Asia recommended as background.
SEVEN MASTERS/HISTORY OF THE PURE LAND TRADITION
HRHS 3250
The Shin Buddhist tradition traces its origins to the works of Nagārjuna, Vasubandhu, Tanluan,
Daochuo, Shandao, Genshin and Hōnen. This course examines their contributions to the development of
Shin Buddhism. Required of ministerial aspirants. HRPH 1614 Introduction to Shin Buddhist thoughtrecommended as background.
TERMS, TEXTS, AND TRANSLATIONS
HR 3300, HR 8330
A study of the key terminology of Buddhist studies across the tradition, the ways in which texts arestudied, and issues of translation. These issues have all been central for the understanding of Buddhism
as it has moved from one society to another, and this course examines how they affect the interpretationof Buddhism in the present.

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ADVANCED FIELD STUDY – CPE (3 UNITS)
FE-3400
CPE placement in a student-chosen site in coordination with the Field Education advisor is required.
Student is responsible for all application material and fees related to the CPE application process.
Completing 1 unit of CPE (full time or extended) fulfills the Field Education requirement and isequivalent to 6 academic units. Student must submit mid-term and final evaluations from CPE advisor inorder to earn credit. [Auditors excluded]

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Advanced Courses
Very specialized. Background study definitely expected. May be taken by both M.A. and Ph.D. level
students.
TOPICS IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITIONS OF JAPANHRHS 4540, HRHS 8454
Specialized topic related to the history of Buddhist thought and practice as it developed in Japan isselected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different. HRHS 1518 Buddhist
Tradition of East Asia recommended as background.
TOPICS IN JAPANESE RELIGIONSHRPH 4543, HRHS 8450
Specialized topic related to the history or thought of Japanese religions is selected by instructor. Course
may be repeated for credit, if topic is different. HRHS 1518 Buddhist Traditions of East Asia
recommended as background.
ISSUES IN THE SHINSHU TRADITION
HR 4547
Examination of an issue of instructor’s choice from the historical study of the Shinshū tradition. May berepeated for credit when topic is different.
TOPICS IN SHIN BUDDHIST THOUGHT
HR 4548
Examination of a topic of instructor’s choice drawing from the interactions between Shin thought andcontemporary thought and society. May be repeated for credit when topic is different.
TOPICS IN THERAVADA BUDDHIST THOUGHTHRRS 4551
Examination of a topic of instructor’s choice drawing from the interactions between Theravada thought
and contemporary thought and society. May be repeated for credit when topic is different.
THERAVADA BUDDHISM
HRHS 4550
This survey course provides students with a solid foundation in the history, doctrines, and practices ofTheravada Buddhism. In addition to sampling authoritative texts and reviewing the historicaldevelopment of Theravada, we will discuss contemporary practices, particularly in terms of lay-monastic
relationships. Special attention will be paid to Sri Lanka, particularly the legacy of British occupation andthe development of “Protestant Buddhism” or “Buddhist modernism.”

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NEMBUTSU: SHIN PRACTICE
HR 4551
An examination of the issue of practice in Shin Buddhist thought, culture and life. Will examine historicaland doctrinal developments of the notion of practice in Pure Land thought, Shinran’s unique perspectiveon the nembutsu of Other Power, and contemporary approaches to Shin Buddhist practice in Asia andthe West. Prerequisites: HR 1614 or instructor’s permission.
TOPICS IN BUDDHIST THOUGHT
HRPH 4556, HRPH 8455
Examination of a topic of instructor’s choice from the history of Buddhist thought, such as philosophy,
psychology or social thought. As appropriate, primary source materials will be employed in the study ofthe topic. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different.
TOPICS IN BUDDHIST PRACTICE
HRPH 4558
Examination of a topic of instructor’s choice from the history of Buddhist thought, such as meditation,
ritual, or debate. Where appropriate, primary source materials will be employed in the study of the topic.
Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different.
CRITICAL HISTORIOGRAPHY OF BUDDHISM
HRPH 8465
The West has been interacting with Buddhism for many centuries, but it is only in the past couple ofdecades that a truly sophisticated (postmodernist, post colonialist) sense of intercultural hermeneutics has
been applied to this history. Having a deep critical awareness of the selected, constructed nature ofperceptions of “Buddhism” is essential to having any understanding of what Buddhism has meant andcan mean in the West.
WORKS OF SHINRAN, I: SHORTER WRITINGS
SA forthcoming [was HRPH 4566/8453]
Introduction to the teachings of Shinran through a study of his shorter writings. Course will utilize theEnglish translations of Shinran’s works to support the study of the original texts. HRPH 1614
Introduction to Shin Buddhist thought, and at least one year of college level Japanese language study(minimal level: ability to use character dictionary), or instructor’s permission are prerequisites. Course
required for ministerial aspirants. Fulfills the textual studies (Biblical Studies or Sacred Texts) requirement
for the GTU MA.
WORKS OF SHINRAN, II: TEACHING, PRACTICE, AND REALIZATION
SA forthcoming[was HRPH 4567/8454]
Introduction to the teachings of Shinran through a study of his major treatise. Course will focus on thedoctrinal content of the text, making use of the English translation. HRPH 1614 Introduction to Shin
Buddhist thought, and at least one year of college-level Japanese language study (minimal level: ability touse character dictionary), or instructor’s permission is prerequisite to enrollment. Course is required for
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ministerial aspirants. Fulfills the textual studies (Biblical Studies or Sacred Texts) requirement for the
GTU MA.
WORKS OF SHINRAN, III: TEACHING, PRACTICE, AND REALIZATION, CONTINUED
SA forthcoming [was HRPH 4568]
Continuation of the study of Shinran’s major treatise focusing on the Japanese original. HRPH 4567
Works of Shinran, II or equivalent as determined by instructor is prerequisite to enrollment. Course isrecommended for ministerial aspirants. Fulfills the textual studies (Biblical Studies or Sacred Texts)
requirement for the GTU MA.
WORKS OF SHINRAN, IV: TANNISHOSA forthcoming [was HRPH 4569/8456]
Introduction to the teachings of Shinran through a study of a key summary of his thought. Course will
utilize the English translation to support the study of the original text. HRPH 1614 Introduction to Shin
Buddhist thought, and at least one year of college-level Japanese language study (minimal level: ability touse character dictionary), or instructor’s permission is prerequisite to enrollment. Course is required forministerial aspirants. Fulfills the textual studies (Biblical Studies or Sacred Texts) requirement for the
GTU MA.
RYUKOKU LECTURE SERIESHRPH 4576
Featuring a visiting professor from Ryukoku University, these lectures focus on different topics each year.
Usually offered in the spring semester. Course may be repeated for credit.
ORGANIZATIONS AND INSTITUTIONS: EFFICACIOUS BUDDHIST PRACTICES INCOMMUNITIES AND GROUPS
PS 4390
Working with social groups of any kind — temple sanghas, meditation groups, hospitals, jails — requires
specialized knowledge and skills. Buddhism began as a group, the sangha, and has a 2,500-year history to
draw on for efficacious practices in relation to groups. In addition, contemporary society creates
additional responsibilities for any religious leader, whether identified as a minister, priest or chaplain. This
course is designed to provide knowledge regarding contemporary legal requirements, working with groupdynamics, basics of organizational procedures, understanding finances, and related issues. This will be set
in the context of the long tradition of Buddhist practices for creating effective institutions.
EXCHANGE STUDY PROGRAM
MA 5020; UP TO 12 UNITS
For study at IBS affiliates at Ryukoku University in Kyoto, Japan, or at Dharma Drum Buddhist College
in New Taipei, Taiwan; open to IBS and GTU degree program students only. In order for exchange
programs to be recorded on the permanent academic record, students must be registered for this course.
Registration is necessary for students who wish to receive academic credit for their work in the exchange

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program or who wish to be eligible for financial aid or deferment while they participate in the exchange
program. (Written permission of IBS administration required.)
MAHAYANA BUDDHIST TEXTSSA forthcoming [was HR 5510]
Textual study and analysis of a Mahayana Buddhist text, selected by instructor. May be repeated for credit
when text is different.
TOPICS IN BUDDHISM IN THE WEST
HRHS 5526
Specialized topic related to the introduction of Buddhist thought and practice is selected by instructor.
Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different.
TOPICS IN BUDDHIST PASTORAL CARE
PSHR 5160
Specialized topic on the relation between pastoral counseling and Buddhist thought and practice isselected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different.
TOPICS IN BUDDHIST CHAPLAINCYNEW COURSE
Specialized topic on the relation between chaplaincy and Buddhist thought and practice is selected byinstructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different.
THEORY AND METHOD IN THE STUDY OF BUDDHISM
NEW COURSE
Examines selected example/s of different approaches to the study of the Buddhist tradition. Provides
critical background to such approaches so as to allow the student to understand the presuppositions
inherent in each. May focus on one or more approach for in-depth study, at instructor’s discretion.
TOPICS IN BUDDHISM AND PSYCHOLOGYNEW COURSE
Specialized topic on the relation between psychology or psychotherapy and Buddhist thought andpractice is selected by instructor. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic is different.
ISSUES IN THE STUDY OF RELIGION
HR 6006
Seminar examining six contemporary books in the study of religions. Participants critique each book, andthen discuss its implications for their own work.

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TOPICS IN BUDDHIST STUDIESHRPH 6016
Advanced seminar focusing on a topic of instructor’s choice. Course may be repeated for credit, if topic
is different.
SPECIAL READING COURSE
SRC 9999
Individual students may select a topic to explore on their own. Bibliography and study is overseen by amember of the IBS core faculty, who is responsible for evaluating work produced. Independent study
may be taken only with the approval of the student’s advisor and the Dean. Independent study courses
are to be used only to augment the regularly offered curriculum with study required by the student’s
preparation for thesis. A maximum of one directed studies course per year may be taken (i.e., 3 units per
24 units of program requirements).
TECHNOLOGY AND HUMAN PRESENCECERS 4875
New technologies are broadly reshaping human relationships—the ways in which people are or are notpresent with each other. In this seminar, we will engage resources available across the academic study ofreligion and theology to examine, critique, and productively address these impacts. In doing so, we will
explore the important roles that religion scholars and theologians might play both in shaping public
understandings of technologies’ impacts on presence and in shaping the technologies themselves. [Note:the seminar was part of Public Theologies of Technology and Presence, program and research initiative
funded by the Henry Luce Foundation and hosted at the Institute of Buddhist Studies from 2018-2021
and has since been retired.]

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Academic Support & Policies
In this section:

Academic Support & Student Life ..................................................................................73
Offices of the Dean and Registrar .............................................................................73
Communication and Registration ..............................................................................73
Library and Research Resources ..............................................................................74
Rare Book Room and Masatoshi Nagatomi Collection ............................................75
Research Projects and Publications .........................................................................76
Student Groups and Events .......................................................................................76
Housing and the Haste Street Dorm .........................................................................78
Transportation ............................................................................................................78
Academic Policies ...........................................................................................................79
Academic Freedom Policy .........................................................................................79
Residential and Online Unit Policies .........................................................................79
Continuing Registration .............................................................................................79
Transfer Credits ..........................................................................................................80
Stackable Curriculum Petition to Advance ...............................................................80
Credit Units/Hours Policy ..........................................................................................81
Grading of Courses ....................................................................................................81
Incomplete ..................................................................................................................82
One Paper for Two Classes........................................................................................82
Plagiarism Policy ........................................................................................................82
Part-time Status .........................................................................................................83
Leave of Absence .......................................................................................................83
Withdrawal from a Degree or Certificate Program ...................................................83
Failure to Register ......................................................................................................84
Attendance Policy ......................................................................................................84
Academic Probation ...................................................................................................84
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy ....................................................................84
Grievances and Disciplinary Procedures ..................................................................85
Transcripts and Retention of Student Records ........................................................85

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Academic Support & Student Life
Offices of the Dean and Registrar
The academic Dean and the Registrar andDirector of Student Services work cooperatively
to oversee the academic program, manage thecourse schedule, track student progress throughdegree and certificate programs, and review
requests for special accommodations.

The Registrar and Director of Student Services isavailable to answer questions about housing at the
IBS Dorm. And the Director hosts regular social
gatherings so that the students, faculty, and staff
can casually enjoy the benefits of theextraordinary IBS community. Announcements
will be made via email.

Students are required to familiarize themselveswith this catalog (which contains all relevant
academic policies) and the Registrar’s page on the
IBS website (which contains further instructions
and forms pertaining to these policies). Degreeand certificate program checklists, so thatstudents may track their own progress toward
program completion, are located on the website,
as are petitions for incomplete, scholarship
applications, and other forms and handbooks. It
is the student’s responsibility to adhere to all
institutional policies and procedures.

Communication and Registration
Once admitted into a degree or certificate
program, students will be issued an IBS email
account. This account will be the primary way
that the Institute communicates with students
during their time in the program.
The Registrar will also ensure that a student hasaccess to Populi (IBS’s student information
system), Moodle (the GTU-hosted course
management platform), and the GTU library. The
student’s IBS email will be used for all of theseplatforms, and therefore it is imperative thatstudents regularly use this email account.

Questions? Who to Contact for Help
Questions about admissions?

Questions about enrollment and registration?

Contact Rev. Gesshin Greenwood

If you’re in the GTU MA program: John Seal.

Questions about housing or the IBS dorm?

If you’re in any other IBS program: Helen
Tagawa.

Contact Ms. Helen Tagawa

Questions about library resources?

Questions about a specific class?
The best thing to do is to contact the
instructor of record. Faculty contact
information is listed on the IBS website.

Helen Tagawa can help get you access to the
GTU library; once you’re registered, contact
the GTU directly.
Questions about scholarship?

Questions about which classes to take?
Contact your advisor. Your advisor is here tohelp you navigate the program and makesure you meet all program requirements.

All IBS students are eligible for institutional
scholarships. Students need to re-apply eachyear in the spring. The application isavailable on the website.

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Special (non-program) students and auditors will
not receive an IBS email account or library access.
Students are required to familiarize themselveswith the Academic Calendar and take note ofdeadlines, holidays, and other special events. In
addition to regularly being in contact with theiracademic advisor, the student should reach out tothe Registrar with any enrollment or student
services questions.

The Registrar will ensure degree and certificate
students have online access to the GTU library.
And the librarians are always available to help
students with research-related questions.
Students should also subscribe to the Institute’s
email list, including the Dean’s Newsletter, tor e c e ive i m p o r t a n t a n n o u n c e m e n t s a n d
information. To sign up for the newsletter, visit
this link: http://eepurl.com/bOHPxr

Library and Research Resources
IBS students have the use of the GTU Library.
Upon their first registration, students receive a
student identification card which will then need tobe registered with the GTU Library. Eachfollowing semester, upon registration, students
will receive a renewal sticker for that semester.
The Graduate Theological Union Library wascreated in 1969 when each of the nine member
schools contributed its collection to form acommon library. The combined collections of the
Flora Lamson Hewlett Library in Berkeley andthe Branch Library at the San Francisco
Theological Seminary (SFTS) in San Anselmo
number more than 695,000 items. The Libraryalso holds 188 archival collections.
The Flora Lamson Hewlett Library, acclaimed for
its architectural design, provides a light andpleasant study space for students and faculty.
Tables, carrels, and comfortable arm chairs offer avariety of quiet environments for scholarly work.
Art shows and informative exhibits add to theattractiveness of the study areas.
The collections of the library reflect the ecumenical spectrum of the GTU and the diversity found within
Christian religious groups as well as within world-wide Christianity. Judaism is an area of emerging

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collection strength. Of the other great religions, Buddhism has general coverage, and Hinduism and Islam
are represented within the collections as well.
Areas of the collection receiving special attention include spirituality, interfaith dialogue, women andreligion, racial-ethnic minorities, inculturation, theology and the arts, and theology and the naturalsciences. The Archives provide primary research materials on religion in the West and Pacific Rim withinterest in ecumenism, inter-religious activity, ethnic plurality, and women in religion. The collection also
includes GTU institutional records. The composite collection of the Library has not only the breadth tosupport the full range of theological programs, but also an impressive depth in many areas of religious
studies and theology.
Free borrowing privileges at the University of California, Berkeley assure excellent support in disciplines
such as philosophy, history, sociology of religion, art and art history, music, classics, literature, education,and psychology. The C. V. Starr East Asian Library, part of the UC Berkeley library system, contains oneof the most comprehensive collections of materials in East Asian languages in the United States. Its
combined holdings, totaling over one million volumes in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and other East Asian
languages, make it one of the top two such collections.
The Green Library at Stanford University also opens the doors of its rich collection to GTU students andfaculty. Even with about eight million library volumes freely at their disposal, students and faculty will
require materials not owned by the libraries of the GTU or UCB. In those cases the Library will seek toborrow items from other libraries through interlibrary loan.
In addition to its printed, microform, and audio-visual resources, the Library offers access to a wide arrayof online resources. GRACE, the Library’s online library catalog provides information regarding the
Library’s holdings. Students may access GRACE via the internet (http://grace.gtu.edu/). Bibliographic
databases in religion and related disciplines, such as psychology and education, aid in the searching ofjournal literature. Convenient access to UCB’s online library catalog speeds up the process of locating
materials. GRACE, UCB’s online catalog, and an organized selection of other electronic resources related
to religion and theology are accessible through the Library’s website (http://www.gtu.edu/library).
The Reference staff provide a number of services to students and faculty. Assistance with research anduse of library materials is offered at the Reference Desk in the Library, by telephone, email, and regularmail. Reference Librarians teach workshops on such topics as the research process and the criticalevaluation of resources and prepare specialized instruction for classes and informal groups. Individuals
may also use the Paper and Thesis Help (PATH) service to work closely with a Reference Librarian inplanning their research.
Rare Book Room and Masatoshi Nagatomi Collection
The Institute of Buddhist Studies’ Rare Book Room contains an extensive collection of Buddhist
materials and resources for the academic study of Buddhism and religion.
In 2008, IBS received a generous gift on behalf of the family of the late Prof. Masatoshi Nagatomi whichadds greatly to our collection.

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The Rare Book Room is not currently open to the public as we are in the midst of reorganization andcataloging the materials. Please check our website for updates.
Research Projects and Publications
In addition to our graduate degree and certificate
programs, the Institute of Buddhist Studies
produces excellent and innovative scholarship via
institutional publications, faculty research, andcollaborative programs and projects. Of particularnote are:Pacific World: Journal of the Institute of
Buddhist Studies
A peer-reviewed and open-source journal
Pure Land Buddhist Studies Series
A book series published in partnershipwith the University of Hawai’i Press focusing on Pure Land Buddhist studies scholarship
Contemporary Issues in Buddhist Studies
A book series focusing on Buddhist studies broadly defined
Ten Thousand Things Blog
A blog featuring writings by current and past students, faculty, and guest scholars
Our website has many resources and information on current and past projects.
Many of our public lectures are recorded and available for viewing via the Institute’s Vimeo channel.
Student Groups and Events
Organized by the Chaplaincy Program Coordinator, the monthly Formation Meeting provides a space forchaplaincy and ministerial students to connect, mutually support one another’s progress through theprogram, and discuss topics relevant to their professional development, spiritual growth, and Buddhist
pastoral care.
The Graduate Student Symposium, held annually in the fall, provides a venue for current IBS and GTU
students to present their work, connect with graduate students and senior faculty, and to further
professional development. The event is overseen by the Dean and a student in the Buddhist Studies
concentration of the GTU doctoral program. The Symposium is supported, in part, by the Numata
Foundation (BDK).
The annual Spring Colloquy provides an opportunity for advanced students in the ministerial andchaplaincy programs to present and celebrate their work prior to graduation.

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The annual Ryukoku Lecture held in March brings a distinguished member of Ryukoku University’sfaculty to Berkeley to present on topics relevant to Shin Buddhist Studies or general Buddhist Studies.
The lectures may be held in conjunction with a for-credit course (HRPH 4576).
In co-operation with the BCA’s Center for Buddhist Education, IBS co-hosts the Pacific Seminar, held
biannually in the winter and summer, a multi-day event that brings Buddhist teachers and scholars
together to discuss topics relevant to Buddhist study and practice. IBS and CBE also co-host a
symposium during the annual BCA National Council Meeting.
Contact the Dean’s Office for additional information regarding student groups or other events. The
Dean’s Newsletter is also a valuable source of information on IBS’s public events.

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Housing and the Haste Street Dorm
Housing is available to single students at the
Haste Street Dormitory with preference given to
full-time, degree program students. Housing
application is to be made during admissions
application procedure. Applications for residence
are due by May 15th for the following academic
year or Fall term, and October 15th for thefollowing Spring term. Replies to applications will
be made by July 1st, and December 1st,
respectively.
IBS dormitory residency contracts are for a fullyear, unless prior arrangements are specifically made. The term of the contract is normally for one year
beginning in August. Dormitory rent includes cost of all utilities, garbage collection, shared kitchen
facilities and normal maintenance. Washer and dryer are on the premises.
Rents and deposits are subject to change, the amounts given here are estimates based on recent history,
not a firm offer of rental rate.
Single room (per month): $700 to $900, plus a security/cleaning deposit. Students wishing to reside in thedormitory should contact the dormitory manager or Registrar directly.
The Dormitory has a limited number of rooms available, so not every IBS student can beaccommodated. The IBS undertakes no responsibility for finding housing for students, and does notassist in the location of housing.
The Berkeley area has many housing options with rents typically ranging from $1000 to $2000 per monthfor a shared room, studio, or one-bedroom apartment. Students are encouraged to start early in theirhousing search.
Due to the COVID-19 situation, housing at the IBS dorm may be limited or unavailable during the2022-23 academic year. Please contact the Registrar for additional information.

Transportation
The IBS is located south of the University of California, Berkeley, and is accessible from the Downtown
Berkeley BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) station and several AC Transit bus lines.
See Campus Location for a detailed map of the IBS, GTU, and the downtown Berkeley area.

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Academic Policies
Academic Freedom Policy
The Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) affirms that academic freedom is essential for institutions ofhigher education, and that it is the policy of the IBS that both faculty and students be free to express
their views on academic matters freely, though within the confines of common courtesy. In other words,
the views of others are to be treated with respect, and disagreements are to be addressed with reason andinformation. At IBS academic freedom means that faculty and students may engage in research,scholarship, or other creative work in order to expand knowledge, to publish research findings, to teachand to learn in an atmosphere of free inquiry and free expression.
Academic freedom, however, entails certain duties and responsibilities. Faculty members are free to
conduct research, write, and engage in other creative work, and then to publish or otherwise make theresults of their work public. Faculty are also entitled to teach and discuss topics relevant to their faculty
assignments with the goal of educating their students. In the same way, students are free to conduct
research, write and engage in other creative work in pursuit of their studies. Freedom in research, writing,publishing and teaching requires a commitment to accuracy and integrity on the part of both faculty andstudents.
Faculty and students are members of the public, members of a learned profession, and members of an
educational institution. When a faculty member or student speaks or writes as a citizen, he or she shouldbe free from institutional censorship or discipline. Both faculty members and students should remember,
however, that the public may judge the profession and institution by their utterances. Both faculty andstudents should always seek to be accurate, exercise appropriate restraint, show respect for the opinionsof others, and be clear that he or she is not speaking for the institution.
Residential and Online Unit Policies
In order to differentiate between online and on-site courses, online courses will be numbered in the 8000s
in both course listings and transcripts. No more than seven online courses may be used to fulfill GTU
MA requirements, as long as they are three-unit, letter-grade, academic courses. As always, GTU MA
students must consult the GTU MA Handbook and other policy documents for the most current
information and policies.
Whereas IBS offers both online and hybrid courses, not all required courses are offered in thesemodalities. M.A.B.S and M.Div. students should expect to spend at least a full-time semester in residence
in Berkeley.
Continuing Registration
If a M.A.B.S. or GTU M.A. student has registered and paid tuition for two years (or a total of 48 units),
and if a M.Div. student has registered and paid tuition for three years (or a total of 72 units) and has not
yet completed their program, they automatically enter “continuing registration” status. While incontinuing registration, students must be registered for at least 12 units per semester and may not registerfor part-time status. Tuition for students in continuing registration is half of regular full-time tuition.

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Students in continuing status can take courses as well as work on their thesis. If all course requirements
have been completed, a student may choose to register for 12 units of “in thesis” only.
Transfer Credits
Courses that were not used toward a previous degree may be petitioned for transfer of credit. Transferredcourses are entered on the student’s transcript and become part of the permanent record.
Transfer of credit is limited to 12 units from a school outside the GTU/IBS, and up to 36 units from aschool within the GTU or a IBS certificate program, at the discretion of the dean. The maximum numberof transfer units is 36. Students must submit a petition to transfer units before completing their second
semester of coursework. Petitions will not be reviewed until after a student has matriculated.
Courses eligible for transfer credit generally fall into three categories: 1) courses taken as a IBS special
student or non-degree student; 2) courses taken above and beyond any degree requirements; 3) courses
taken for a degree program which the student did not and will not complete. Whereas courses may meetthe degree program unit requirement, they may or may not be used to meet any specific course
requirements.
GTU M.A. students must familiarize themselves with relevant policies in the GTU M.A. Handbook.
See the Stackable Curriculum section for related policies and options for students.
Stackable Curriculum Petition to AdvanceThe stackable curriculum gives students the choice to apply directly to a degree program or to start with acertificate program and apply those units toward a degree. Students who wish to continue their studies
from a certificate program to a degree program must petition for advancement.
Students are encouraged to meet with their advisor or the certificate program director (this is usually thesame person) to discuss their intentions and options. The student’s advisor will help the student todiscern their personal or professional goals and how the M.A.B.S. or M.Div. degree might support thosegoals.
Students have one year from the completion of their certificate to decide to continue on in a degree
program. After one year, students will need to formally apply to the degree program and petition to havetheir certificate units count toward the degree as per IBS’s transfer of credit policy.
If a student wants to continue their studies at IBS, they need to fill out a Petition to Advance form,
available at the IBS website or from the IBS Registrar’s Office.
This form assumes the student has had a conversation with their advisor, asks the student to state theirreasons for continuing on in a degree program, and needs to be approved by the certificate program
director, registrar, and dean.
Once approved, the student can continue on in their studies. At this point, they should meet again with
their academic advisor to chart out a plan for completing the remaining degree program course
requirements and thesis project.

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Credit Units/Hours Policy
IBS follows the GTU credit units/hours policy which, in turn, follows federal guidelines regarding credit
units and credit hours. Federal Policy 34 CFRR 600.2 defines a credit hour as follows:
A credit hour is an amount of work represented in learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student
achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:
1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out of classstudent work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or
ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different
amount of time; or
2. At least an equivalent amount of work as in paragraph 1 of this definition for other academic activities
as established by the institution, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and otheracademic work leading to the award of credit hours.
Grading of Courses
For degree and certificate students, all courses for credit except the thesis must be taken for a letter grade.
An overall B average is required for satisfactory completion of the program. All students in a course are
expected to be judged according to the same standards of performance.
A grade is assigned by the supervising faculty member with the following numerical equivalent andinterpretation:
A, 4.0100-93% Above average graduate-level workA-, 3.7

92-90%

B+, 3.3

89-87%

B, 3.086-83%

B-, 2.7

82-80%

C+, 2.3

79-77%C, 2.076-73%

C-, 1.7

72-70%

D+, 1.3

69-67%

D, 1.066-60%

Good, sound graduate-level work

Below acceptable graduate-level, assignments completed

Work unacceptably below graduate level

F, 0.0The following notations in the transcript are used when credit is not earned:
I Incomplete: Course work was not completed (see incomplete policy below).

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IP In Progress: work assigned by the instructor extends beyond end of term. Not a substitute for
Incomplete. Usually only issued when instructor has made prior arrangements with the Dean’s Office fora special situation in which course work for all students must for some reason extend beyond the normal
semester schedule. Will count as a zero in calculating grade point average until grade is reported byinstructor.
W Withdrawal: student withdrew before end of course. Will not count towards calculating grade point
average, but does count toward units attempted.
NR No Report: Instructor is unable to provide final evaluation. Written explanation from instructor will
be expected. Is not considered a permanent grade, and therefore will not count either towards calculating
grade point average, or units attempted.
Incomplete
Permission to take an incomplete in a course is by petition only. Petitions must be made no later than thelast day of instruction. Failure to file an incomplete form by this time will result in a failing grade for thecourse. An Incomplete (I) grade must be made up within three weeks of the end of the current semester.
Faculty must turn in the grade three weeks after the submission of the student’s work. If no grade isturned in by the end of the sixth week after the semester ends, the “I” will automatically change to agrade of “F” and will not count toward graduation requirements (i.e., no credit is earned for the course, itcounts as a 0 for GPA). This becomes the student’s permanent grade for the course. The course can be
repeated when it is offered at a later time; however, the failing grade remains on the student’s transcript.
One Paper for Two Classes
Any student wishing to submit one paper in fulfillment of the writing requirements of two classes mustfirst obtain the written consent of both instructors. Second, the paper must meet the cumulativerequirements for the writing assignment required in both classes. This applies not only to such items as
total page length and stylistic requirements, but also to topics and kinds of treatments. For example, if
one class requires 15 pages and the other 20, the student will need to complete a 35 page paper. Similarly,
if one requires examination of a particular individual’s thought, and the other a report on an historicalera, the final paper must both report on an historical era and examine the thought of a particular
individual. Students are advised that actually fulfilling the requirements for two classes is more difficult
than writing two separate papers. Failure to follow the guidelines of this policy will be considered an
instance of academic dishonesty, and will be dealt with accordingly. This could result in failing bothclasses, being reported to the Office of the Dean, and dismissal from the program for academic
dishonesty.
Plagiarism Policy
Students are expected to avoid plagiarism, which is defined as the presentation of another’s ideas,
methods, research or words without proper acknowledgment. This includes the use of substantial text
from one’s own work from another paper (“self-plagiarism”). Students are expected to be familiar withproper citation methods (Turabian’s Manual of Style is required), and therefore ignorance of suchmethods is not justification for plagiarism. Plagiarism is a case of academic dishonesty, and depending
upon the severity will be dealt with accordingly. This may be simply advising by the student’s Academic
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Advisor, or extend up to dismissal from the educational program. The transcript of a dismissed student
will indicate dismissal and the rationale for such action.
Part-time Status
Students enrolled in twelve units per semester are considered full-time students. It is necessary to enroll in
twelve units per semester to graduate on schedule.
Students enrolled in a degree program who wish to register for fewer than twelve units must petition inwriting to the Dean (GTU M.A. students need to petition to both the IBS and GTU Dean). This petition,
which may be in the form of an email, must have an explanation for the part-time status request and thenumber of units for which the student intends to register. If the Dean approves the petition, the student
will be notified in writing (with a copy to the GTU Dean’s Office for review, filing, and updating thestudent’s academic file), and the student will be expected to take the reduced course load.
Students enrolled in a certificate program do not need to petition for part-time status.
Please note: Full-time students should not plan to work more than ten hours per week outside of theirstudies.
Leave of Absence
Leaves of absence may be taken for a maximum of four academic semesters, no more than two
consecutively. All outstanding debts must be paid before the approval is granted. Request for a leave ofabsence must be made in writing to the IBS Dean (with a copy to the GTU Dean for M.A. students).
This request must be made no later than the end of the registration period (usually the second Friday) of
the semester in which the student intends to take a leave of absence; otherwise late registration fees will
apply. Requests for a leave of absence will not be accepted after the “deadline for registered students tochange enrollment without special permission” (see GTU Extended Calendar for specific date in eachsemester); after that date the student will be required to take Incompletes for courses, and finish work
according to requirements for Incompletes.
Failure to file a leave of absence request by the end of the late registration period will be considered a
withdrawal without notification. Leaves are for one semester only and must be renewed each semester as
needed. Payment of the leave of absence fee during the registration period of each semester of leave isrequired to maintain leave of absence status.
Students in the M.A. program program may obtain a leave of absence with the approval of both IBS and
GTU; students in the M.A.B.S. and M.Div. programs need the approval of IBS only.
Withdrawal from a Degree or Certificate Program
Students who wish to leave their program of study are required to submit to the Dean a letter of
explanation and request for honorable withdrawal, and to arrange with the Business Office for paymentof any outstanding debts. The Institute must be informed of a student’s intent to withdraw in writing to
the IBS Dean (with a copy to the GTU Dean for M.A. students) by the final day for late registration of
the semester in which the student intends to withdraw (see GTU Extended Calendar for specific date ineach semester). Failure to request withdrawal or requests made after the final day for late registration will
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be considered withdrawal without notification. Petition for reinstatement may be made within two years.
However, there is no presumption of a right to re-enter. All records of students who withdraw aredestroyed after seven years.
Failure to Register
Students who do not register or request a leave of absence before the end of the registration period will
be considered to have withdrawn from the program without notification. It is the student’s responsibility
to inform the Institute of changes in their plans. Withdrawal without notification follows from thestudent’s actions, and therefore the Institute is not obliged to inform the student of the change in thestudent’s status. As with students who have notified the Institute of their intent to withdraw, petition forreinstatement may be made within two years; however, there is no presumption of a right to re-enter. All
records of students who withdraw are destroyed after seven years.
Attendance Policy
Students are expected to attend all meetings of on-site classes, or participate in each weekly componentof online classes. Limited exceptions may be made at the instructor’s discretion for illness or family
emergency, in the event of which students will be expected to demonstrate comparable participation. If
the illness or family emergency is such that the student will not be able to complete the work assigned forthe course, the student is directed to policies regarding withdrawal from program or leave of absence.
Academic Probation
Students whose cumulative grade point average falls below the minimum standard for graduation — 3.0
or B — are placed on academic probation until the minimum level is restored. (See Satisfactory
Academic Progress Policy below.) Students have one semester in which to restore their grade point
average or risk dismissal from the program.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
The Higher Education Act of 1965 requires that institutions of higher education establish a reasonable
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy to determine whether an otherwise eligible student ismaking SAP in their educational program. The SAP policy must include a qualitative and a quantitative
measure of the completion of work within a maximum timeframe. Students must meet both measures tomaintain their eligibility during all periods of enrollment. The SAP policy must apply to all students in the
program including those who are not receiving financial aid. Initial and continuing eligibility for all
sources of student funding or support, such as grant-in-aid, other GTU-sponsored merit and/or needbased awards, scholarships, or fellowships and federal aid such as federal work-study and direct loans,require GTU verification of satisfactory academic progress.
Qualitative Measure: Students must maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or above. If thestudent’s GPA falls below 3.0, the student will be notified that it must be brought back up by the end of
the following semester. If the overall GPA has not been raised to a 3.0 by the end of the next semester,
the student will not be eligible for any additional financial aid.
Quantitative Measure: Students must make acceptable progress toward completion of the degree
within the maximum time periods (excluding leaves of absence) outlined below:
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M.Div.:

85

6 semesters (Full-time)
9 semesters (Part-time)
8 semesters (Full-time)
12 semesters (Part-time)

Students must complete their degree within 150% of the published length of the program. The
successful completion of a course is to obtain a B- or greater. Unsuccessful completion occurs when astudent earns a C+ or below. Full-time students are expected to enroll in at least 12 units each term or a
total of 24 units in one academic year. Part-time students are expected to enroll in at least 6 units perterm or a total of 12 units in an academic year. Appropriate pace for a full-time student to complete thedegree is at least 8 units a term (16.5% of the total unit requirement a term) or a total of 16 units in one
academic year (33% of the total units in one academic year). Appropriate pace for a part-time student tocomplete the degree is at least 6 units a term (12.5% of the total unit requirement in one term) or a totalof 12 units in an academic year (25% of the total unit requirement in one academic year).
Incompletes (I), Failures (F), and Withdrawals (W): An Incomplete (I) grade must be made up
within three weeks of the end of the current semester. Faculty must turn in the grade three weeks after
the submission of the student’s work. If no grade is turned in by the end of the sixth week after thesemester ends, the “I” will automatically change to a grade of “F” and will not count toward graduation
requirements. Only academic courses of 3 units or more with a B- or above are counted toward thedegree. Courses with a C+ or below cannot be counted towards a degree or certificate program. Students
can choose to retake the course or take another course that fulfills the same requirement.
Transfer Credits: Students are eligible to transfer units into their program, ranging from 18-36 units,depending on the transfer. These units count toward the overall unit requirement and the student’s pacein the program.
Failure to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress may result in loss of eligibility for financial aid and/or
scholarships and other academic disciplinary measures.
Grievances and Disciplinary Procedures
Students found guilty of unethical, criminal or disruptive conduct while enrolled at IBS may be
temporarily suspended or permanently dismissed if they do not respond satisfactorily to the counsel ofthe faculty and administration. Disciplinary decisions are made by the Dean in consultation with the
President, Registrar, the student’s Academic Advisor, and the Core Faculty.
Appeal of disciplinary procedures and decisions (or grievances by a student against other students, faculty
or staff for any reason) may be brought to the Dean. If the parties in the dispute are not satisfied withthe decision of the Dean, further appeals may be made to the President or the Chairperson of the IBS
Board of Trustees who will appoint a representative committee of Trustees, Administration, Faculty andstudents to hear and decide the case.
Transcripts and Retention of Student Records
Transcripts will be available upon request. For current fees for transcripts, please see the section on
Tuition and Fees. Note that these fees are subject to change. It is the policy of the Institute of Buddhist

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Studies to maintain permanent records of: student names; contact information (address, telephone,email); the degree or certificate awarded and date the degree or certificate was granted; all courses andunits upon which the degree or certificate was based; and the grades earned by the student in each of
those courses.
Transcripts for the GTU M.A. degree may be requested via the GTU Registrar’s Office.

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In this section:

Tuition, Fees, & Related Policies .....................................................................................89
Tuition for 2022-2023..................................................................................................89
Fees ............................................................................................................................89
Funding, Scholarships, and Financial Aid .................................................................90Awards and Scholarships ..........................................................................................91
Student’s Right to Cancel and Refund Policy ...........................................................93
Deferred Payment Policy ...........................................................................................93
Delinquent Accounts ..................................................................................................93
Field Education Policy ...............................................................................................93
Other policies ...................................................................................................................94
Policy of Non-Discrimination .....................................................................................94
Institute of Buddhist Studies Anti-Harassment Policy .............................................94
Mandatory Drug-Free Notification .............................................................................98
Notice Concerning Transferability of Credits ............................................................99

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Tuition, Fees, & Related Policies
For the 2022-23 academic year, IBS has frozen tuition at the previous year rate.
Tuition for 2022-2023
Tuition per unit

Per course

Per semester, parttime (two courses)

Per semester, fulltime (four courses)

$825

$2475

$4950

$9900

Degree & Certificate
program students
Field Education*$825

Special students**$2000

Auditors$825

Senior auditor (65+)$415* See Field Education policy below for more details.
** See special student status policy under Enrollment Options for details.
Fees
Degree program application fee*

$40

Certificate program/special student application fee$15

New auditors processing fee$25

Late registration fee$100

Leave of absence/records maintenance fee (per leave/semester)$100

Reinstatement fee**$200

Change in enrollment (after second week of semester, per change)***$50

Graduation fee****$150

Certificate completion fee$50

Transcript fee (per copy)$5* Application fee is payable directly to GTU for the GTU M.A. and payable to IBS for all other programs.
** Only students who have withdrawn in accord with stated polices may be reinstated; see “Withdraw from Degree
Program” section for more information.
*** Note that dropping one course and adding another counts as two changes.
**** Graduation fee may be different for GTU M.A. students.

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Funding, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Institutional Scholarships

All students in IBS degree and certificate programs, including GTU M.A. students affiliated with IBS, areeligible for IBS Student Scholarships. Members of the Buddhist Churches of America, the Jōdo Shinshū
Hongwanji-ha, and other organizations and individual donors have generously raised funds in support ofIBS Student Scholarships.
Scholarships are awarded based on a standard 9-month academic year, not by calendar year. Students
must apply for scholarships each academic year for which they intend to register for classes. Students areusually notified of scholarship awards in the spring.
The Scholarship Application is due no later than March 1 for the following academic year. Students
admitted after the March deadline may apply for scholarships; however, there is no guarantee that funding
will be available. Students entering the spring term should apply for scholarships no later thanNovember 1.
General requirements for IBS Scholarships are:
• Applicant may be a foreign or domestic student;• Applicant must be a regular student enrolled in a degree or certificate program (auditors and special
students are not eligible for scholarships);• Maintain satisfactory academic progress;• Some awards have additional requirements and may include additional application materials (seebelow for more details).
How to Apply for Scholarships and Loans

When completing a certificate or degree program application, the applicant will be prompted to apply fora scholarship. Once admitted, they will be automatically considered for a scholarship award and notified
prior to registration.
Returning students will need to re-apply each academic year by completing the Scholarship Applicationon the IBS website. The deadline for applying is March 1.
Federal Student Aid

Only students enrolled in at least 6 units in the GTU M.A. program are eligible for student loans via the
U.S. Department of Education. GTU M.A. students must contact the GTU Financial Aid Office for
specific eligibility and application requirements.
GTU M.A. students who have chosen IBS as their member school of affiliation are eligible for IBS
Student Scholarships and should submit an application to IBS in addition to GTU.

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Awards and Scholarships
Scholarships by special application

The Hongwanji Scholarship Award
We are not currently accepting applications for the Hongwanji Scholarship Award. Pleasecontact the Dean with questions or concerns.

Due to the generous support of the Jōdo Shinshū Hongwanji-ha in Kyoto, Japan, IBS is pleased to offer
an annual scholarship to one qualified student enrolled in either the M.A.B.S. or M.Div. degree program.
This scholarship is awarded to a student in need who shows exceptional academic promise or a history of
religious leadership with a clear vision of how she/he will apply their education at the IBS postgraduation as a scholar, minister, or chaplain. The applicant must intend to enroll as a full-time student
for the duration of the year of the award; the award amount varies by year, but generally is at least $5000
per year. Award recipients are publicly announced in the Buddhist Churches of America’s newsletter,
Wheel of Dharma.
All application materials must be received no later than March 1 for the following year.
In addition to the institutional aid application requirements above, applicants should submit:
1. Hongwanji Scholarship Award application sheet (available via the IBS website);
2. Cover letter addressed to the Scholarship Committee detailing why the applicant is qualified for theaward, what her/his goals are in the IBS program; and what contribution she/he hopes to makepost-graduation in a specific community or academic field;
3. Current resume or curriculum vitae;
4. Two letters of recommendation (may be the same letters of recommendation for programadmission if those letters speak to the requirements of this award).
Scholarships by Nomination

There is no separate application for Scholarships by Nomination. By submitting the Scholarship
Application, students are automatically eligible for these awards.
Shin Buddhist Ministerial Scholarship
The membership of the Buddhist Churches of America has generously raised funds in support of Jōdo
Shinshū ministerial education. Scholarships are awarded annually to those students in need who areenrolled in the Shin Buddhist Studies Certificate Program, the Shin Buddhist ministerial track of the
M.Div. program, or have otherwise formally signified a commitment to Shin Buddhist ministry. No
additional application is required, but students must apply for financial aid via the application processlisted here. Nominations are made by the Scholarship Committee after reviewing all applications.
Returning students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to be eligible.

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Scholarship for Women Shin Buddhist Ministerial Aspirants
This award supports women students who wish to pursue a career in Shin Buddhist ministry. Thisscholarship is awarded to any qualifying student in need who is enrolled in the Kyōshi Certificate
Program, the Shin Buddhist Studies Certificate Program, the Shin Buddhist ministerial track of the
M.Div. program, or have otherwise formally signified a commitment to Shin Buddhist ministry. No
additional application is required, but students must apply for financial aid via the application processlisted above. Nominations are made by the Scholarship Committee after reviewing all applications.
Returning students must maintain satisfactory academic progress to be eligible.
Buddhist Chaplaincy Scholarship
These scholarships are awarded annually to those students in need who are enrolled in the Buddhist
Chaplaincy Certificate Program, the Buddhist chaplaincy track of the M.Div. program, or or haveotherwise formally signified a commitment to Buddhist chaplaincy. No additional application is required,but students must apply for financial aid via the application process listed above. Nominations are madeby the Scholarship Committee after reviewing all applications. Returning students must maintainsatisfactory academic progress to be eligible.
Travel Grants
The Institute of Buddhist Studies encourages and supports students to present work at academic or
scholarly conferences. A limited number of travel grants may be available to those students who arepresenting at conferences. Generally, IBS awards up to $500 for domestic and $1000 for international
travel, depending on availability of funding.
To be eligible, students must be (1) enrolled in any degree or certificate program, (2) maintain satisfactory
academic progress, and (3) provide documentation that their paper has been accepted and that they haveregistered for the conference.
Please contact the Registrar for the appropriate form; applications must be submitted by September 15
for conferences scheduled from September through January, and January 15 for conferences scheduledfrom January through August.
Takashima Scholarship Fund for the Ryukoku Student Exchange Program
The Institute of Buddhist Studies encourages and supports students who wish to study Buddhism inJapan. The Takashima Scholarship Fund has been created to support BCA ministerial aspirants
participating in the Ryukoku University student exchange program. IBS may award up to $2,500 for eithera single semester or $5,000 for a full academic year of study, depending on the availability of funding.
To be eligible, students must (1) be enrolled in a degree program; (2) maintain satisfactory academic
progress; (3) be accepted into the exchange program; and (4) have demonstrated progress in nearing thecompletion of their thesis project.

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Please contact the Registrar for the appropriate form; applications myst be submitted by May 1 forstudents planning to begin the exchange program in the US fall semester and November 1 for students
planning to begin the exchange program in the US spring semester.
Student’s Right to Cancel and Refund Policy
The student has a right to cancel enrollment and obtain a refund of tuition. To cancel enrollment, thestudent must submit a written notice to the Dean and Registrar.
If the notice to cancel enrollment is received before the first day of the semester, a full refund will be
issued.
If the notice to cancel enrollment is received by end of day Friday of the second week of the semester,
the student will receive a full refund less the withdrawal (leave of absence) fee.
If the notice to cancel enrollment or withdrawal from a program is received by end of day Friday of thefifth week of the semester, the student will receive a refund of 50% of tuition paid.
If the notice is received after the end of the fifth week of the semester, no refund will be issued.
Deferred Payment Policy
Students who are not able to pay the total tuition costs at the time of registration may apply for deferredpayment. Submit a written request explaining why a deferred payment schedule is necessary, and whenand how payment of the balance due will be made. Upon written approval by the Dean, consult theBusiness Office to set up a payment schedule. Late registration fee will apply if request is not submitted
by the end of the registration period. Except under the most extenuating circumstances, the term ofdeferral will only extend to the end of “Reading Week” as per the GTU calendar for that semester. Any
deferred payments must be completed prior to enrolling in a subsequent semester. Failure to complete
payments in the time agreed upon will result in a block on registering for the following semester, libraryprivileges and transcripts. Late registration fee will apply if registration the following semester is delayed
due to student’s failure to meet agreed-upon payment schedule.
Delinquent Accounts
Students whose accounts are not current may not register for the next term and cannot receive grades,
have transcripts issued, consult with advisor or other faculty, or make use of library facilities.
Field Education Policy
Students in the M.Div. program are required to complete at least three but not more than nine units of“field education” (sometimes referred to as a “contextual education”). Students should consult with theiracademic advisor and the Field Education Handbook located on the IBS website for more information.
A different tuition rate is charged for field education units. Students need to receive approval from boththeir academic advisor and the Dean prior to registering for field education units. The field education fee
also applies to those students who register in the Sati Institute’s Buddhist chaplaincy training program foracademic credit.

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Other policies
Policy of Non-Discrimination
Institute of Buddhist Studies admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin, gender,
sexual orientation, religion, age or physical disability to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities
generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis ofrace, color, national origin, and ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age or physical disability
in administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and otherschool-administered programs.
Institute of Buddhist Studies Anti-Harassment Policy
The Institute of Buddhist Studies is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits
discrimination with respect to any terms or conditions of employment against qualified applicants orstudents on the basis of race, color, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), religion (allaspects of religious beliefs, observance or practice, including religious dress and grooming practices),
creed, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship,
physical or mental disability, history of disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic
characteristics), genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related
medical conditions), sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected bystate or federal law or local ordinance. IBS also prohibits discrimination against a person who is perceived
as having any of those characteristics or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having anyof those characteristics. All such discrimination is unlawful.
IBS also prohibits sexual harassment and the harassment of any individual based on any of the protectedclasses listed above. For information about the types of conduct that constitute impermissible
discrimination or harassment, please refer to Section B provided below.
Applicable law and IBS policy also protect employees and students who engage in protected activity –e.g., making a good-faith complaint of discrimination based on one of the above categories, participatingor assisting in such a complaint, or opposing illegal conduct under this policy – from retaliation or
reprisals based on such activity. IBS will investigate complaints of discrimination, harassment, andretaliation, and will take prompt, remedial action whenever necessary. The procedure for making acomplaint is provided in Section C below.
1) REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION POLICY
To comply with applicable laws and policies ensuring equal educational opportunities to qualified
individuals with a disability, IBS will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or
cognitive impairments of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is student, staff or faculty
member, unless undue hardship would result.
Any student, staff, or faculty member who requires an accommodation in order to receive an equal
educational opportunity should contact the President, Dean or designated Human Resources
Representative and discuss the need for an accommodation. IBS will engage in a good-faith interactive

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process with the student or faculty member to identify any reasonable accommodations that could be
made.
B. POLICY AGAINST HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION, AND ABUSIVE CONDUCTIBS is committed to an educational environment in which all individuals are treated with respect anddignity. Each individual has the right to work and study in a professional atmosphere that promotes equal
opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices, including harassment. In order to keep thiscommitment, IBS expressly prohibits harassment and discrimination of any kind based on a protectedcharacteristic such as race, color, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), religion (allaspects of religious beliefs, observance or practice, including religious dress and grooming practices),
creed, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship,
physical or mental disability, history of disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic
characteristics), genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related
medical conditions), sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected bystate or federal law or local ordinance.
Conduct need not rise to the level of a violation of law to violate this policy. A single act can violate thispolicy and provide grounds for discipline or other appropriate corrective actions.
This policy applies to all employees, including faculty, staff, supervisors, and non-supervisory employees,
and to all non-employees (students, volunteers, interns, vendors, contractors, etc.) who engage indiscrimination or harassment in the workplace. For the purpose of this policy only, as provided here in
Section II.B, students, volunteers, interns, vendors, and contractors are considered employees.
Discrimination Prohibited
No employee may engage or assist in discrimination against job applicants or other employees.
Discrimination occurs when individuals are treated differently because of their protected status (asdefined above). Discrimination can occur during any job-related action, but often involves the following
activities when taken on the basis of a protected characteristic:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Refusal to hire, promote, or reinstate to a previously held position.
Refusal to select for training that leads to advancement.
Termination, demotion, or layoff.
Paying lower wages.
Giving less favorable terms and conditions of employment, such as less favorable shifts, work
locations, assignments, tools, and equipment.
Withholding assistance, cooperation, and/or information to applicants or employees in a mannerthat interferes with work performance or employment processes.

Harassment Prohibited
Harassment includes behavior that is subjectively and objectively offensive and is based on a person’s
protected status. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, acts that are:•Verbal, such as name-calling, insults, epithets, derogatory comments or slurs, and lewd
propositioning, etc. because of a person’s protected status (as defined above).
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Physical, such as assault, interfering with work, impeding or blocking movement, unwelcome oroffensive touching, pinching, grabbing, patting, etc., or any physical interference with normal workor movement when directed at an individual because of their protected status (as defined above).
Visual Insults, such as staring or leering; derogatory posters, cartoons, drawings; or the like becauseof their protected status (as defined above).

Harassment may arise from the conduct of other employees, supervisors, managers, or outside parties
such as students, volunteers, and/or members of the public. In all cases, such harassment is prohibited bythis policy. Even in cases where the harasser is not an employee, IBS will take the necessary steps toensure that the offending behavior stops and that the employee is protected from further harassment.
Harassment does not necessarily have to occur in the workplace. Conduct occurring during after-hours
activities, via social media or other online sites, may constitute harassment under this policy if there is aconnection to the workplace.
It is no excuse that an employee may have appeared to consent to the offensive conduct. A recipient may
not protest against the conduct for many reasons, including but not limited to avoiding the appearance ofbeing insubordinate and/or avoiding possible retaliation. Harassment includes harassing acts focused on
an individual who is not physically present at the time, or who was present but did not actually see or hear
the acts. Harassment can also include harassing acts observed by an individual who was not the intended
target.
Sexual Harassment Prohibited
This policy also prohibits sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is an illegal form of sex discrimination
under federal and state law. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome or unsolicited sexual advances,
requests for sexual favors, verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, or other conduct based on sex,
directed to persons of the same or opposite sex when:•••

Submission to such conduct is made an explicit or implicit term or condition of employment; or
Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment
decisions affecting such individual; or
Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s work
performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.

Some examples of sexual harassment are:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Verbal conduct such as epithets, derogatory jokes or comments, slurs or unwanted sexual advances,invitations or comments;
Visual conduct such as derogatory and/or sexually oriented posters, photography, cartoons,drawings, e-mail, faxes, or gestures;
Physical conduct such as assault, unwanted touching, blocking normal movement or interferingwith work directed at an employee because of the employee’s sex or other protected characteristic;Use of social media to conduct sexual advances and or harassment;
Threats and demands to submit to sexual requests in order keep one’s job or avoid some other loss,
and offers of employment benefits in return for sexual favors;
Retaliation for having reported or threatened to report unlawful harassment.

Sexually harassing conduct does not need to be motivated by sexual desire to be considered unlawful.

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Abusive Conduct Prohibited
IBS does not tolerate abusive conduct. Abusive conduct is the conduct of an employer or employee inthe workplace, with malice (an intent to harm), that a reasonable person would find hostile, offensive, andunrelated to an employer’s legitimate business interests.
Abusive conduct may include:•••

Repeated infliction of verbal abuse, such as the use of derogatory remarks, insults and epithets;
Verbal or physical conduct that a reasonable person would find threatening, intimidating, or
humiliating;
The gratuitous sabotage or undermining of a person’s work performance.

Employees who violate the Policy Against Harassment, Discrimination, and Abusive Conduct are subject
to discipline, up to and including termination or expulsion, and the possibility of criminal charges.
C. COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
Anyone who believes that they have been subjected to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in
violation of the law or IBS policy should promptly report the facts of the incident or incidents and thenames of the individuals involved to their supervisor, any other supervisor, or in the alternative, to the
President or designated Human Resources Representative. Upon receipt of a complaint, IBS will
undertake a fair, timely, and thorough investigation of the harassment allegations. IBS will not assign
someone named in a complaint to investigate the complaint. All complaints and investigations will be
kept confidential to the greatest extent possible. However, IBS may disclose information on a “need toknow” basis as necessary in order to conduct a thorough investigation, to support the imposition of
disciplinary action, or to comply with a court order.
Upon completing the investigation, the President or designated Human Resources Representative will
inform the complainant of the findings in a timely manner, and where appropriate, any remedial actions
to be taken. However, specific disciplinary actions against an employee shall remain confidential. If IBS
determines that harassment has occurred, effective remedial action will be taken in accordance to thecircumstances involved. Any employee determined by IBS to be responsible for harassment,
discrimination, or abusive conduct will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including
termination or expulsion.
1) POLICY AGAINST RETALIATION
Employees and students will not be retaliated against for filing a complaint and/or assisting in acomplaint or investigation process in good faith. Further, we will not tolerate or permit retaliation by
supervisors or co-workers against any complainant or anyone assisting in a harassment investigation. Any
employee who intentionally makes a false complaint of discrimination or harassment and any employee
who knowingly provides false, inaccurate, or incomplete information during any such investigation shallbe subject to appropriate disciplinary or corrective action, including termination.
2) RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUPERVISORSIBS Catalog 2022-2023

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A “supervisor” means any individual having the authority, in the interest of the employer, to hire,transfer, suspend, layoff, recall, promote, discharge, assign, reward, or discipline other employees, or the
responsibility to direct them, or to adjust their grievances, or effectively to recommend that action.
Supervisors shall:•••

Take all complaints of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation seriously, and report all reported
or suspected misconduct to the President or designated Human Resources Representative. Do notmake judgments as to whether the conduct reported is minor or severe, or as to the validity of thecomplaint.
Assure the complainant or the witness that someone will follow up promptly in accordance withthis policy. Inform the complainant that his or her complaint cannot be held in complete
confidence, but will only be shared with those who need to know so that IBS can conduct athorough investigation and take appropriate action as necessary.
Immediately intervene when any inappropriate conduct is observed and take measures to protect
employees from further inappropriate conduct.

3) RESPONSIBILITIES OF EMPLOYEESAll employees are expected to assume responsibility for maintaining a work environment that is free fromdiscrimination, harassment, retaliation, and abusive conduct. This includes refraining from conduct as
outlined by this policy.
Employees are strongly encouraged to promptly report conduct that they observe or learn about that may
violate this policy so that IBS has an opportunity to address and resolve any concerns. Employees are also
encouraged to support their peers in reporting their concerns.
Employees shall fully cooperate in investigations when required and respect the privacy of individuals
who are involved, or who employees believe may be involved in a complaint or investigation. Employees
have the right to discuss concerns about their work environment or working conditions among theirpeers. However, employees should avoid participation in gossip or malicious rumors that could
unnecessarily cause harm to those involved.
Mandatory Drug-Free Notification
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226) requires all
schools receiving federal funding of any kind (i.e. CWSP, Perkins Loans) to notify all students of thefollowing on an annual basis:
1. The Institute of Buddhist Studies requires its campus be drug free. The unlawful manufacture,
distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance while at IBS is prohibited. Abuse ofalcohol on the IBS campus is also not allowed. Violation of this policy will be considered cause fordismissal of a student.
2. IBS is required to impose sanctions, up to and including dismissal from all programs of study, of any
student engaged in the abuse of alcohol (including underage drinking), or the unlawful possession, use, or
distribution of illicit drugs while on the IBS premises. In addition, any student involved in such illegal

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activity is subject to legal sanctions under local, State and Federal law. Information regarding specificpenalties is available from the GTU Business Office.
3. The health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol are many. Detailed
information concerning the known health hazards resulting from the abuse of drugs or alcohol may beobtained from your physician, from UCB’s Health Service facility or from the GTU Business Office.
4. Several drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation programs are available to you.
Should you or someone you know need help in dealing with a drug or alcohol dependency problem, you
may call Summit Medical Center’s Chemical Dependency Department at 510/652-7000; initialconsultation is free. The consultation includes assessment of the problem and the recommendation of atreatment plan. In addition, you may call 510/839-8900 for referral to an Alcoholics Anonymous
program near you or 510/839-8900 for referral to a Narcotics Anonymous program near you.
Notice Concerning Transferability of Credits
The transferability of credits you earn at the Institute of Buddhist Studies is at the complete discretion of
an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree (M.A., M.A.B.S., M.Div.), or
certificate you earn is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer,or apply for certification, ordination, or other recognition. If the credits, degree or certification you earnat this institution are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required torepeat some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason you should make certain thatyour attendance at this institution will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an
institution to which you may seek to transfer after attending the Institute of Buddhist Studies todetermine if your credits, degree or certification will transfer.

IBS Catalog 2022-2023

Academic Calendar 2022-23
IBS follows the GTU Extended Calendar for all dates, deadlines, and most holidays. Students interested
in cross-registering in classes at the University of California, Berkeley, should be advised that the UC
semester starts up to two weeks before the IBS/GTU semester.
Fall Semester, September 6 through December 16, 2022
Fall certificate program, special student, and auditor applications deadline

August 5

UCB instruction begins

August 24

IBS new and returning student orientation

August 24

GTU MA orientation period, see GTU website for details

August 22-September 2

New student registration/returning student late registration period

August 22-September 2

Labor Day (administrative offices closed, no classes)

September 5

IBS/GTU instruction begins

September 6

Add/drop period; students may add/drop courses without charge

September 6-16

Deadline to pay fall 2022 tuition

September 16

Thesis defense deadline, to avoid fall 2022 registration and tuition charge

September 16

Thesis filing deadline, for fall 2022 graduation
Reading week (no classes)

October 1
October 24-28

Spring 2023 degree program application deadline

November 1

Spring 2023 scholarship application deadline

November 1

IBS Annual Memorial Service

November 10

Returning student registration for Spring 2023

November 7-18

Annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion in Denver, CO

November 19-22

Thanksgiving Holiday (administrative offices closed, no classes)

November 24-25

UCB instruction ends

December 9

IBS/GTU semester ends; deadline to petition for incomplete

December 16

IBS Winter Holiday (administrative offices closed)

December 19-January 2

Deadline to make up an incomplete

January 6

Deadline for faculty to submit grades for fall 2022

January 6

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Spring Semester, January 30 through May 19, 2023
Returning student registration for Spring 2023
Spring certificate program, special student, and auditor applications deadline
Shinran Shonin Memorial Day (administrative offices closed)

November 7-18, 2022
January 6
January 13 (observed)

Martin Luther King Day (administrative offices closed)

January 16

UCB instruction begins

January 17

New student registration/returning student late registration period
IBS/GTU instruction begins

January 17-27
January 30

Add/drop period; students may add/drop courses without charge

January 30-February 10

Deadline to pay fall 2022 tuition

February 10

Thesis defense deadline, to avoid spring 2023 registration and tuition charge

February 10

Presidents Day (administrative offices closed)

February 20

BCA National Council Meeting

February 24-26

Ryukoku Lecture Series

March, TBD

Deadline for degree program applications for AY2023-24
Reading week/spring break (no classes)

March 1March 27-31

Thesis filing deadline, for spring 2023 graduation

April 1

Good Friday (administrative offices closed, no classes)

April 7Returning student registration for Fall 2023

April 10-21

UCB instruction ends

May 5

GTU Commencement

May 11 - TBD

IBS/GTU semester ends; deadline to petition for incomplete

May 19IBS Commencement

May 19

Memorial Day (administrative offices closed)

May 29Deadline to make up an incomplete

June 9Deadline for faculty to submit grades for spring 2023

June 9

Juneteenth (administrative offices closed)

June 19

Independence Day (administrative offices closed)

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July 4

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Campus Location
The Institute of Buddhist Studies is located in downtown Berkeley, a block south of the University ofCalifornia. On-site classes are held in the Jodo Shinshu Center or on the campuses of other GTU
member schools on “Holy Hill,” north of the University.

A. Institute of Buddhist Studies, faculty and administrative offices, classrooms, 2140 Durant Avenue
B. IBS Haste Street Dorm
C. Graduate Theological Union, Dean’s Office and Library, 2400 Ridge Road
D. GTU Admissions and Financial Aid Offices, 2465 LeConte Avenue
E. Doe Memorial Library (UC Berkeley main library, circulation desk)
F. UC Berkeley CV Starr East Asian Library
G. Downtown Berkeley BART Station, intersection of Shattuck Avenue and Center Street

IBS Catalog 2022-2023

© 2022 Institute of Buddhist Studies
For more information, visit us on the web atwww.shin-ibs.edu
info@shin-ibs.edu
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IBS Catalog 2022-2023