Buddhist Studies

The Secular Buddhist Studies Program at the Interdependence Project offers a strong and accessible foundation in Buddhist meditation, psychology, philosophy, and ethics that includes multiple traditions and bodies of teaching. Composed of a diverse series of weekly courses and four weekend meditation retreats, the Secular Buddhist Studies Program is designed for those interested in applying Buddhist teachings to 21st century lives, with a focus on the growing conversation between Buddhist and Western psychological traditions. It is designed to give you great tools and practices for sanity and well-being, for working with the mind and emotions in a down-to-earth and practical manner.

We offer our curriculum free from the commitments or rituals of any particular Buddhist lineage, yet we view completion of our Secular Buddhist Studies program as a gateway to deeper study and practice in one of the traditions with which we have affiliations (Shambhala, Zen, Insight/Theravada, and Tibetan). Our senior teachers and lineage mentors are all certified in traditional lineages of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.

The Secular Buddhist Studies program can be completed in as little as a year of focused participation, or you can go at your own pace. 

Those who complete the program will receive the IDP Secular Buddhist Studies pin, a symbol of program completion and your investment in your own path of awakening.

Requirements for completing the IDP Secular Buddhist Studies program:

Courses may be completed in-person or through the study-at-home option. To receive credit, students will have to complete a short assignment, and must declare the class-series "for credit" during registration.

Program Requirements:

• A total of 40 Secular Buddhist Studies class sessions at IDP (must be done in person or via study-at-home). 
• A total of 4 weekend retreats or One Week-long retreat - either using retreats at IDP, or retreats at a connected lineage such as Shambhala Training, Insight Meditation Society, Village Zendo, etc. (contact kim@theidproject.org to verify alternative retreats)

NOTE: Completion of the Secular Buddhist Studies Program is one — but not the only — prerequisite for the Year-Long Immersion / Instructor Training Program.  For details on that program visit this page or email us directly. 

Program Fees:

There is a one-time administrative fee of $150  ($100 for students) to join the Secular Buddhist Studies program.

Can't afford it? 
It is our full intention to accommodate the financial needs of anyone who has a genuine commitment to practice and study. Reduced payment options and work-study are always available. Please contact buddhiststudies@theidproject.org to make alternative arrangements. The program fee may also be paid in two installments. 

See you in class!

REGISTER for the Secular Buddhist Studies Program