University of Toronto

Overview

The Buddhist Studies (Hons) program at the University of Toronto offers a comprehensive exploration of Buddhism's history, texts, and practices across Asia. This academically rigorous undergraduate degree combines critical analysis of Buddhist philosophies with language studies and research training, fostering a rich academic environment for students.

What you'll study

The program requires the completion of 10.0 credits and includes an integrative capstone course that consolidates your learning. Language training is also a key component of the curriculum. Indicative themes explored throughout the course include:

• World Religions
• Reason and Religion in the Modern Age
• Blood, Sex and Drugs
• Sports and/as Religion
• Conspiracies, Social Media, and the Rise of New Religious Movements
• Spirituality, Religion, and the Environment
• Happiness
• “It’s the End of the World as We Know It”

Focus areas within Buddhist Studies may include:

• Buddhism
• Study of Religion
• History of Buddhist Meditation
• Buddhist Ritual
• Buddhist Life Stories
• Interdependence
• Tibetan Buddhism
• Breath and embodied practice (e.g., “Biohacking Breath”)
• Ethics and practice in context (e.g., “Touching the Earth”)

Please note that the availability of specific courses may vary, and it's recommended to consult the official University of Toronto program information for the latest updates.

Entry requirements

While there are no specific GRE or GMAT requirements for this program, admission decisions are generally based on the applicant's academic background and overall application strength. Minimum GPA requirements are not explicitly stated.

For English language proficiency, the following scores are typically required:

• Duolingo English Test: 120
• TOEFL iBT: 89
• PTE Academic: 65
• IELTS: 6.5

For International Baccalaureate (IB) students, the following requirements apply:

• IB Diploma: Required for admission consideration; the IB Certificate alone is insufficient.
• Prerequisites: May be presented at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL).
• English: SL or HL English is required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Buddhist Studies (Hons) program can pursue various career paths in fields such as education, religious studies, cultural analysis, and social work. The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in further academic research or pursuing advanced degrees in related disciplines. The diverse skill set gained through this program equips students to engage thoughtfully with global issues and cultural dialogues.