Core Courses

Our two-year core curriculum provides foundational classes in Tibetan Buddhism including sutra teachings, philosophical tenets and Tibetan language. The classes are taught in the evening, by the resident Namgyal monks. The core curriculum of classes is open to men and women who wish to enroll in full or part-time study, taking as few as one course, or all of the courses offered in a given semester. New students are always welcome to apply for classes at Namgyal Monastery. The program is open to both men and women, and can be taken as a complete two year program or one class at a time.

The core curriculum at Namgyal Monastery is a two-year program that provides instruction on foundational teachings in Tibetan Buddhism that are also part of the thirteen-year degree program at Namgyal Monastery in Dharamsala, India. The thirteen-year program was developed under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The two-year format suitable for lay students interested in pursuing the study of authentic Tibetan Buddhism. This program is open to all levels of students. Apply

Classes are taught primarily by the resident Namgyal monks and often by a resident Geshe. The program offers classes in sutra, tantra, Tibetan language, and traditional Tibetan ritual arts. The core classes are taught at the Aurora Street House located in downtown Ithaca, which is also home to the Namgyal monks.

Students of Buddhism will likely be drawn to more advanced retreats, the Tibetan language program and the more in-depth programs of study offered in the curriculum.

Fall semester is the best time to enroll for the complete program; however, you may enroll in a single course or the entire program at any time. Please communicate your interest to us, and we’ll help you decide how to best begin your studies at the monastery. All students must arrange for their own transportation to and from classes at the Aurora Street house, as well as arrange for their own housing.

Course Schedule