Academics
Two-Year Degree Program
Degree Program
The two-year degree program at Taunggalay Buddhist College offers a unique curriculum that combines core courses in mathematics, English, physics, chemistry, Buddhist logic, and Buddhist culture with specialized tracks in Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, Abhidhamma Pitaka, and East Pwo Karen studies. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to develop a well-rounded understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of Buddhism, while also gaining proficiency in essential academic subjects.
Admission Requirements
Taunggalay Buddhist College welcomes applications from bhikkhu, bhikkhunī, and laypeople who have completed any level of Pariyatti study or monastic examinations in Buddhism. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 25 and have a basic or intermediate level of English proficiency, as all instruction will be in English and conducted online. For those fluent only in Burmese and East Pwo Karen (Phlon), teaching assistants will be available to provide guidance throughout the course.
Who can apply?
Bhikkhu, bhikkhunī, and laypeople who have completed any level of Pariyatti study or monastic examinations in Buddhism.
Age Requirements
18-25 years old
Language of instruction
All instruction will be in English, and conducted online. For those fluent only in Burmese and East Pwo Karen (Phlon), teaching assistants will be available to provide guidance throughout the course.
Curriculum / Courses Overview
The two-year degree program at Taunggalay Buddhist College is designed to provide a comprehensive education that integrates modern sciences with traditional Buddhist studies. Our curriculum aims to equip students with a strong foundation in both academic and spiritual knowledge.
First Semester
September - December

ENGL 101
English

CHEM 101
Introduction to Chemistry

DHAMMA 101
Buddhist Culture
Second Semester
January - April

MATH 101
College Algebra

PHYS 101
Introductory Physics

DHAMMA 102
Buddhist Logic and Epistemology
Final Year
In the second year, students choose to specialize in one of the following areas.
- Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, or Abhidhamma Pitaka
- East Pwo Karen Literature, Tradition and Custom, Culture, or History.
They will conduct research and prepare a 250-300 page thesis, which can be written in English, Myanmar,
East Pwo Karen, or Pali, contributing to the academic fields of Buddhist studies or East Pwo Karen
studies.
Students specializing in East Pwo Karen Literature, Tradition and Custom, Culture, or History
will also take a minor class in East Pwo Karen literature and culture for two semesters.
Disclaimer: Some of the course images are generated using AI for inspirational purposes only and may not accurately depict real-life situations.