Certificate of Buddhist Studies
The Certificate of Buddhist Studies is a certification open to all students; however, it is a requirement to become a Deacon/Anagarika in the Five Mountain Zen Order. People who are interested in sanction and ordination from Five Mountain Zen Order must also be accepted into Five Mountain Zen Order Ordination Path (see the section on Admissions for further information).
Application of Studies
Since the time of Śakyamuni Buddha, lay ministers have served an important role in the spreading of the Dharma. Many of our students feel a calling to work directly in ministry with the marginalized, the poor, the sick, the dying, the bereaved, the hungry and the imprisoned. Completion of the C.B.E. prepares students to work in dharma centers, temples, or other Buddhist organizations, where they can provide basic instruction and organization in between visits by teachers or monastics.
For students who wish to work as interfaith ministers in hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, prisons, private colleges and universities, private secondary schools, airports, corporations, etc. They would obviously be available for people in these organizations who identify as Buddhist, but their primary purpose would be to serve anyone who comes to them, regardless of their religion or lack thereof.
Note: This Certificate does not, nor is it intended to serve in any way, mean that the holder may apply for the job of a Religious Chaplain.
Application of Studies
Since the time of Śakyamuni Buddha, lay ministers have served an important role in the spreading of the Dharma. Many of our students feel a calling to work directly in ministry with the marginalized, the poor, the sick, the dying, the bereaved, the hungry and the imprisoned. Completion of the C.B.E. prepares students to work in dharma centers, temples, or other Buddhist organizations, where they can provide basic instruction and organization in between visits by teachers or monastics.
For students who wish to work as interfaith ministers in hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, prisons, private colleges and universities, private secondary schools, airports, corporations, etc. They would obviously be available for people in these organizations who identify as Buddhist, but their primary purpose would be to serve anyone who comes to them, regardless of their religion or lack thereof.
Note: This Certificate does not, nor is it intended to serve in any way, mean that the holder may apply for the job of a Religious Chaplain.
Time Commitment Chart
The estimates in the commitment of time are based upon 3 Classes per Quarter Maximum. This is not a restriction; however, most of our students find that this level of commitment is able to be integrated into a busy personal schedule. For those who have more time available to commit we do allow up to a maximum of 6 Courses per Quarter; but this is a very taxing and difficult task.
Course Requirements
The Coursework required to obtain the Certificate of Buddhist Studies is a balanced set of classes which find a balance between Buddhist Liturgy, Buddhist Studies, and Sutra Studies. These courses will prepare the student to confidently move into their role as a Deacon and serve their local communities.
