Doctor of Buddhist Ministry
One of Four Buddhist Graduate Programs in the U.S.
The Doctor of Buddhist Ministry (DBMin) at UWest is one of only four Buddhist graduate programs in the United States, offering a rigorous, practice-oriented education for experienced Buddhist ministers, chaplains, and community leaders.
Doctor of Buddhist Ministry
This advanced professional degree deepens ministerial practice, ethical leadership, and applied Buddhist principles, equipping graduates to serve diverse communities in healthcare, education, military, and nonprofit sectors.
Total Units Required: 63 units​
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- Core Courses: 12 units​
- Electives: 36 units​
- Research Training: 12 units​
Why UWest?
✔ One of only four Buddhist graduate programs in the U.S.
✔ Hands-on training in Buddhist ministry & chaplaincy
✔ Diverse, interfaith learning environment
✔ Personalized mentorship from experienced faculty
What Makes This Program Unique?
UWest’s chaplaincy programs go beyond the classroom. As a university founded by and affiliated with Fo Guang Shan, one of the world’s largest Buddhist monastic orders, students have access to hands-on training at Hsi Lai Temple, Fo Guang Shan’s North American headquarters, just minutes from campus. This direct connection to a living Buddhist tradition sets UWest apart from any other Buddhist chaplaincy program.
Students engage in spiritual formation, professional training, and interfaith dialogue while developing the practical skills necessary for certification and chaplaincy careers.
Why Choose UWest’s Buddhist Chaplaincy Program?
A Direct Link to Buddhist Practice & Tradition
- Affiliated with Fo Guang Shan, a global Buddhist monastic order with an emphasis on humanistic and engaged Buddhism.
- Proximity to Hsi Lai Temple offers a work-study model, integrating academic learning with direct experience in Buddhist spiritual care.
- Opportunities to engage with monastic teachers, chaplains, and global Buddhist leaders through temple-based internships and retreats.
Accredited & Professionally Recognized Training
- First accredited Buddhist chaplaincy program in the U.S., setting the national standard for professional Buddhist spiritual care education.
- Curriculum aligns with the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) standards, ensuring students meet eligibility requirements for certification and credentialing.
- Recognized by hospitals, military, and correctional facilities as a pathway to chaplaincy careers.
Interdisciplinary & Ecumenical Approach
- Collaborates with UWest’s departments of Religious Studies, Psychology, and Business, ensuring students gain a well-rounded understanding of spiritual care, counseling, and leadership.
- Welcomes students from all Buddhist traditions, as well as those from other faiths seeking to incorporate Buddhist teachings into their spiritual care practice.
- Training in interfaith dialogue prepares chaplains to work in diverse, multicultural, and multifaith environments.
Admissions Requirements
- Educational Background: Completion of a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Master of Arts (MA) in a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0.​
- Practical Experience: At least one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) with an evaluation letter from a CPE supervisor, or three years of ministerial or temple work post-master’s degree.​
- Recommendations: Four letters of recommendation, including:​
- Two from academic sources (advisor, dean, or chair)​
- One from a peer (such as a Dharma sibling)​
- One from a pastoral supervisor or master​
- Statement of Purpose: A personal statement detailing how enrollment in UWest’s DBMin program will further the applicant’s personal goals, aspirations, achievements, and educational and career objectives.​
- Interview: An interview conducted either in person or by telephone.​
Advanced buddhist scholarship & research
Global Buddhist Leadership & Ministry
Textual Analysis & Scriptural Interpretation
Community Engagement & Public Service
Ethical & Moral Development in Leadership
Advanced buddhist scholarship & research
Global Buddhist Leadership & Ministry
Textual Analysis & Scriptural Interpretation
Community Engagement & Public Service
Ethical & Moral Development in Leadership
Individualized Guidance
You will meet with a program advisor to discuss your what sparks your passions and how your interests fit into your larger career goals. Together, you will develop your individualized program—a course of study that is truly you.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the DBMin program are equipped for advanced roles in various settings, including:
- Healthcare Chaplaincy: Providing spiritual care in hospitals and hospice environments.​
- Educational Institutions: Serving as chaplains or spiritual advisors in universities and schools.​
- Military and Correctional Facilities: Offering spiritual support within the armed forces or prison systems.​
- Community Leadership: Leading Buddhist communities, temples, or engaging in interfaith initiatives.​
- Nonprofit Sector: Working with organizations focused on social justice, environmental advocacy, or humanitarian efforts.​
This program’s comprehensive curriculum and practical training prepare graduates to address contemporary challenges with compassion, ethical integrity, and a profound understanding of Buddhist teachings. ​
Alumni Success
“UWest’s Buddhist Chaplaincy program provided me with not only the academic foundation but also the hands-on experience I needed to become a board-certified chaplain. The opportunity to train at Hsi Lai Temple and learn from real practitioners was transformative.”
— Jamie L., MDiv Graduate, Class of 2022
FACULTY
Chair
Jitsujo Gauthier, PhD
Faculty
Tilda Zheng, DBMin
Adjunct Faculty
Victor Gabriel, PhD
Bryan Ferry, MDiv
Dung Nguyen, DMin
Monica Sanford, PhD
Nathan Michon, PhD
Sarah Ford, MDiv
80% of students receive some form of financial aid
UWest offers various financial aid options to support students, including:
- Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available.​
- Grants: Federal and state grants for eligible students.​
- Loans: Federal student loan programs with favorable terms.​
- Work-Study Programs: Opportunities to earn while learning through campus employment.​
APPLICATION DEADLINES
- Fall Semester: June 15th
- Spring Semester: Nov 15th
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
- Personal statement outlining chaplaincy goals
- Two letters of recommendation
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Start Your Journey
This advanced professional degree deepens ministerial practice, ethical leadership, and applied Buddhist principles, equipping graduates to serve diverse communities in healthcare, education, military, and nonprofit sectors.
