Master of Arts in Religious Studies
Integrating Buddhist Wisdom with Compassionate Care
As an institution founded by and affiliated with Fo Guang Shan, one of the world’s largest Buddhist monastic orders, UWest provides unparalleled opportunities for both academic and experiential learning in Buddhist studies.
Master of Arts in Religious Studies
UWest’s Master of Arts in Religious Studies offers an in-depth exploration of religious traditions, with a strong emphasis on Buddhism and its contemporary applications.
As an institution founded by and affiliated with Fo Guang Shan, one of the world’s largest Buddhist monastic orders, UWest provides unparalleled opportunities for both academic and experiential learning in Buddhist studies.
UWest’s proximity to Hsi Lai Temple, the North American headquarters of Fo Guang Shan, allows students to engage directly with Buddhist monastics, scholars, and practitioners, creating a blended academic and work-study environment that connects religious scholarship with lived experience.
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, interfaith dialogue, Buddhist leadership, chaplaincy, and translation.
Program at a Glance
- Location: Los Angeles
- Length: 2 Years / 36 units
- Tuition: $743 per unit
- Flexible Enrollment: Fall & Spring start dates
- Small Class Sizes: 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- On-Site Learning: Direct engagement with Hsi Lai Temple & Fo Guang Shan
Program Tracks
Students can specialize in one of four academic and practice-based tracks:
- Buddhist Texts & Translation – Develop proficiency in canonical languages and the interpretation of Buddhist scriptures.
- Mindfulness, Meditation, & Mind – Explore the psychological and spiritual dimensions of contemplative practice.
- Humanistic Buddhism – Explore a human-centered and socially engaged approach to Buddhism that emphasizes applying Buddhist wisdom and values to contemporary life and global challenges. This concentration helps students develop a worldview grounded in compassion, ethics, and social responsibility.
- Chinese Buddhism in Transnational Contexts (Mandarin cohort) – Enhance knowledge and teaching of Chinese Buddhism in modern, transnational contexts using Western methodologies and contemporary vocabulary (中文說明及申請)
Program Highlights
- On-Site Learning Opportunities – Participate in meditation retreats, Dharma talks, and activities at local temples.
- Community Engagement – Experience work-study programs that integrate academic coursework with hands-on temple service.
- Capstone Project or Thesis – Conduct original research on Buddhist philosophy, interfaith dialogue, or applied religious studies.
Why Choose UWest’s Religious Studies Program?
Affiliation with Fo Guang Shan
Study within a globally respected Buddhist tradition with access to renowned monastics and scholars.
Connection to Hsi Lai Temple
Engage in service-learning, research, and spiritual practice through direct collaboration with the temple community.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Work closely with faculty in Buddhist Chaplaincy, Psychology, and Comparative Religion for a well-rounded perspective.
Academic Partnerships
Take graduate-level courses at partner institutions such as the Claremont School of Theology and the Academy for Jewish Religion.
Affiliation with Fo Guang Shan
Study within a globally respected Buddhist tradition with access to renowned monastics and scholars.
Connection to Hsi Lai Temple
Engage in service-learning, research, and spiritual practice through direct collaboration with the temple community.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Work closely with faculty in Buddhist Chaplaincy, Psychology, and Comparative Religion for a well-rounded perspective.
Academic Partnerships
Take graduate-level courses at partner institutions such as the Claremont School of Theology and the Academy for Jewish Religion.
UWest & Hsi Lai Temple: Work, Learn, and Grow
One of the most distinctive aspects of studying at UWest is the ability to engage in practical Buddhist learning at Hsi Lai Temple, located just minutes from campus.
What This Means for You:
- Work-Study Programs – Gain real-world experience in temple management, religious instruction, and Buddhist leadership.
- Meditation & Retreats – Deepen your practice through guided meditation and immersive retreats.
- Networking & Mentorship – Connect with leading Buddhist scholars, monastics, and global spiritual leaders.
This integration of academic study with real-world practice provides students with a unique and immersive experience not found in most graduate religious studies programs.
INTERFAITH DIALOG & CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING
ADVANCED THEOLOGICAL & PHILOSOPHICAL INQUIRY
Textual Analysis & Interpretation
Research & Scholarly Writing
Ethical & Spiritual Leadership
Advanced Theological & Philosophical Inquiry
Interfaith DIALOG & Cultural Understanding
Textual Analysis & Interpretation
Research & Scholarly Writing
Ethical & Spiritual Leadership
Individualized Guidance
You will meet with a program advisor to discuss 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 Religious Studies program pursue roles in:
- Academic Research & Education – University teaching, religious scholarship, and cultural studies.
- Buddhist Chaplaincy & Spiritual Counseling – Providing spiritual care in hospitals, prisons, and other institutions.
- Interfaith Dialog & Religious Outreach – Promoting religious understanding and collaboration.
- Cultural Consultancy & Translation – Working with Buddhist texts, translations, and cultural preservation.
Students develop both academic expertise and applied skills, making them well-suited for leadership roles in Buddhist institutions, academia, and interfaith settings.
Alumni Success
“UWest’s Religious Studies program didn’t just teach me about Buddhism and world religions—it changed how I see myself and the world. The small classes, direct access to monks and scholars, and the deep sense of community helped me grow not only academically but as a person of purpose. If you’re looking for more than just a degree, UWest offers a path of transformation.“
— Moon H., Class of 2023
FACULTY
Chair
Miroj Shakya, PhD
Faculty
William Chu, PhD
Shou-Jen Kuo, PhD
Emeritus Faculty
Lewis R. Lancaster, PhD
Darui Long, PhD
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: November 15th
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Start Your Journey
Embark on a transformative educational journey with UWest’s Graduate Religious Studies program.
