This course focuses on training to teach mindfulness to individuals and small
groups, as well as to give lectures in the community on
the principles and benefits of mindfulness.
Contemplative Studies explores theories and practices of mindfulness, wellness, and ethics within multiple worldviews and contexts. Students receive a foundation based on multicultural contemplative literature and apply the theories learned to their own experiences through direct engagement and critical reflection. Building on this foundation, students increase their understanding of how contemplative theory intersects with specific fields of study, including religious studies, psychology, expressive arts, and business. The curriculum integrates contemplative pedagogy so students not only learn the theory and practice of contemplation from an historical critical third-person perspective, they also engage in contemplative practice from a first-person critical perspective.
While the core curriculum is grounded in Buddhist mindfulness, Buddhist ethics, and modern secular mindfulness, a wider view is gained through the comparative study of other religious and secular traditions. Elective curriculum allows students the opportunity to explore how contemplative practice can be integrated into their own academic and professional goals.
Upon completion of the minor, students have a solid grounding in contemplative practice; an understanding of how contemplative practice relates to ethics; a foundation of the principles and practices of wellness; an ability to critically reflect on and compare contemplative theories and practices from different worldviews; and exposure to how contemplative practices may be applied in academic and professional contexts. In addition, they have the practical skills needed to facilitate mindfulness practice for small groups, as well as educate their communities on the benefits of mindfulness practice.
Students who complete
the requirements with a curriculum gpa of 3.0 or higher are awarded the Mindfulness Facilitation certificate.
- Teacher: Christopher Johnson