About UWest
Embracing the timeless values of Humanistic Buddhism, UWest offers an education that is as much about personal growth as it is about academic excellence. Our mission is to empower students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and compassion.
Our Founder & Legacy
UWest was founded in 1991 by Venerable Master Hsing Yun—a visionary born in Jiangdu, China, in 1927, whose lifelong commitment to Humanistic Buddhism has inspired millions. As the founder of the renowned Fo Guang Shan Buddhist order, which today encompasses over 200 temples and centers worldwide. His groundbreaking work spans from establishing humanitarian initiatives to creating educational institutions that blend ancient wisdom with modern scholarship.
His legacy is evident in every aspect of UWest. Just as he pioneered Hsi Lai Temple in California—a vibrant hub of spiritual and community life—UWest carries forward his vision by integrating mindful living, ethical leadership, and holistic education into our daily practices.
A Broad Educational Legacy
Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s commitment to education is reflected in the creation of multiple institutions around the globe. After establishing University of the West in 1991, Venerable Master founded four additional universities
• Nanhua University – Jiayi, Taiwan (est. 1996)
• Fo Guang University – Ilan, Taiwan (est. 1999)
• Nan Tien Institute – Australia (est. 2001) offers accredited graduate degrees in Applied Buddhist Studies.
• Guang Ming College – Philippines, (est. 2014) uniquely combines performing arts and Buddhist Studies.
Each of these institutions embodies the integration of Buddhist teachings with rigorous academic disciplines, providing a comprehensive education from the bachelor’s level through PhD programs.
From Seeking Knowledge to Gaining Wisdom: Your Journey Starts Here
At UWest, we offer more than an education—we offer a transformation. Guided by Buddhist values and the timeless teachings of our founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, UWest empowers students to lead lives of purpose, compassion, and integrity.
Our Charitable Work & Community Service
Beyond education, our legacy is defined by a profound commitment to serving others. Fo Guang Shan’s humanistic projects include establishing children’s homes, free medical clinics, residential care facilities, prison ministries, and disaster relief efforts. These charitable initiatives embody the core Buddhist values of compassion, wisdom, and social responsibility, inspiring every facet of our community engagement.
Our Mission and Values
The mission of University of the West is to provide a whole-person education in a context informed by Buddhist wisdom and values, and to facilitate cultural understanding and appreciation between East and West. Guang Ming College in the Philippines (est. 2014) uniquely combines performing arts with Buddhist studies.
Character
Cultivating integrity, wisdom, and leadership
in all that we do.
Compassion
Acting in service to others and embracing diversity as a path to understanding.
Community
Fostering a supportive, inclusive environment rooted in mutual respect.
Mission Statement & Values
- Provide a whole-person education, where intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and creative development converge.
- Offer an education as unique as you are, supporting each student’s path to success.
- Draw from Buddhist wisdom to deliver a global liberal arts education.
- Celebrate diversity as a gateway to wisdom and empathy.
- Create an environment of compassion and encourages a life of service.
- Present opportunities for intellectual and cultural exchange between East and West.
- Seek and nurture students of strong character, ready to lead with purpose.
- Promote self-knowledge and contemplation as tools for a peaceful, fulfilling life.
- Believe in education as conversation, where students and faculty learn from one another.
Our Campus and Community
Our beautiful campus, located in Rosemead, California, is designed as a serene space for academic inquiry and spiritual exploration. Featuring tranquil meditation spaces, cutting edge learning technology, a renowned research library, and welcoming living and recreational facilities, our environment fosters learning, mindfulness, and community engagement in equal measure. Every corner reflects our commitment to nurturing mind, body, and spirit—a living testament to our founder’s vision of a community where education is a journey toward wisdom and compassionate leadership.
Join the UWest Community
At University of the West, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re embarking on a journey of transformation. Inspired by a founder whose legacy spans global educational and humanitarian initiatives, UWest is dedicated to shaping leaders who make a lasting impact in the world.
