top of page

DOCTOR

OF PHILOSOPHY 

In Buddhist Studies

The International Center for Buddhist Studies
for monks novices and laypeople from all over
the world.

PROGRAM

OVERVIEW

Although the courses and the research leading to the Ph.D. are necessarily specialized, the attainment of this degree should not be an isolated event the enterprise of learning. The aspirant for the Ph.D. is expected to be a well-educated person with a broad sense of general knowledge, not only as preparation for more advanced work, but also truly skillful in the teaching of Buddhsim, Tripitaka, deeply aware of Citta Bhavana (Mind Development), having moral and respectful behaviors, well understanding the current situations of the world and society and well-versed in using modern technology to propagate the teachings of the Buddha.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Buddhist Studies degree is awarded for mastering a field of scholarship, for learning the methods of investigation appropriate to that field, and for completing original research.

A College enriched with the beauty of multicultural

VISION

International Buddhsit Studies College of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University produces intelligent graduates within a collaborative network of Buddhist educational Institutes around the world, with the aim of awakening the society and integrating Buddhist studies with modern sciences to develop Buddhist research, innovation and academic services based on projects to foster and maintain the art and culture of a multicultural society.

MISSION

The program is aimed to foster the development of student’s research skills such as independence, critical thinking, problem solving, initiative, and professional contribution in order to produce religious leaders, qualified academic personnel, and researchers in the field of Buddhist studies. The mission of IBSC is to support Buddhism in its multicultural manifestation and ensure a higher level of religious and academic services by providing Buddhist education for monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.

CURRICULUM

The Doctoral aspirant specifies a program area in which classes and research work are to be done and in which he or she expects to become a scholar. At least 18 credit hours should be taken at the International Buddhist Studies College (IBSC), Mahachulalongkorn rajavidyalaya University, exclusive of dissertation credits and research skills. The doctoral study aspirant, with the assistance of an advisor, constructs a doctoral program plan of coursework and research opporturnities.

1.  Required Subjects (6 Credits)

4. Elective Subjects (6 Credits)

801 101  Seminar on the Tipitaka

801 102  Buddhism and Hermeneutics

2.  Special Subjects (Non-Credit subjects)

801 203  Advanced Research Methodology

800 306  Insight Meditaion

Students are required to choose 2 subjects:

801 105  Buddhist Literary Works for Research

801 210  Independent Study in Religious Studies

801 211  Seminar on Applied Buddhist Ethics

801 212  Seminar on Buddhism and Sustainable Development

801 315  Buddhist Psychotherapy & Counseling

801 316  Seminar on Buddhsim and Peaceful Means

801 317  Seminar on Buddhism and Sufficiency Economy

801 318  Seminar on Socially Engaged Buddhism

801 319  Seminar on Abhidhamma Pitaka

3.  Major Subjects (6 Credits) 

801 207  Selected Topics in Development of Buddhism

801 208  Seminar on Buddhsim and Modern Sciences

801 105  Buddhsit Literary Works for Research (Non-credit)

5. Dissertation (36 Credits)

RESEARCH SKILLS

The Ph.D. research skills requirement includes completion of at least 12 graduate hours representing at least two of the following areas relevant to the aspirant’s research area: statistics, measurement and assessment, qualitative methods, historical and philosophical methods and may include a reading knowledge in one foreign language (excluding English or one’s native language).

COMPREHENSIVE

EXAMINATION

The comprehensive examination consists of both written and oral parts and covers the major area pursued by the student. The student passes the comprehensive examination if a majority of the officail examining committee (including the chair) approves the student’s performance.

DISSERTATION

The candidate must present a dissertaion showing the planning, conduct, and results of original research and scholarly creativity. The purpose of the dissertation is to encourage and ensure the development of broad intellectual capabilities as well as to demonstrate an intensive focus on a problem or research area.

RESIDENT STUDY

Two semesters (which may include one summer session), usually consecutive, at any time beginning with the first semester of doctoral study, must be spent in resident study at IBSC. Residence is not merely a peiod measured in hour. During this period the doctoral aspirant must be involved full time in academic pursuits, which may include up to half-time on-campus teaching or research, or under certain circumstances, a greater percentage of research if it is diredted specifically toward the student’s degree objectives.

APPLICATION

REQUIREMENTS

The application for admission to the International Center for Buddhist Studies College of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University for a doctoral study has the following requirements:

1. Master’s degree or equivalent with at least a 3.5-grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

2. A complete graduate application: apply online at the Office of IBSC Student service.

3. An official transcript (not student’s copy) of all previous undergraduate and graduate credit sent from the institution directly to the Office of IBSC Student service (printed transcripts or official electronic versions are both acceptable).

4. English requirement please check from the list here.

5. A statement of career goals describing an area of interest in curriculum and instruction and how this degree will help meet professional aspirations.

6. Letters of recommendation from two people who can comment on the applicant’s ability to complete a doctoral program of study; the master’s adviser is appropriate to include.

7. A writing sample: Thesis Proposal, an article, paper, or other composition originally written by the applicant. An appropriate length is eight to ten pages.

8. CV or a vitae or resume.

* International applicants should check the IBSC website for additional admission requirements.
 

Please note: Meeting minimum admission standards does not guarantee admission to the program.
 

Tuition Fee

Tuition Fee for Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies Plan 1.1:
Approximately 280000 THB for the whole program

Tuition Fee for Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies Plan 2.1:
Approximately 298000 THB for the whole program

bottom of page