BA in Contemplative Psychology

The Contemplative Psychology major requires 37 credit hours: 28 from the core requirements and 9 from one of the concentrations. The core requirements are divided between courses in Psychology and meditation from the Buddhist and Shambhala traditions, and courses in Western Psychology. Students pursue further study in one of four concentrations: Somatic Psychology, Psychology of Health and Healing, Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology, or Psychological Science.

Other requirements include a contemplative community retreat in the fall semester every other year and a community—based volunteer project within the Boulder/ Denver area.

Program Vision

The BA Contemplative Psychology program offers an innovative approach to the study and practice of psychology; guided by the principle that psychological health and well- being is innate. The Contemplative Psychology department creates and supports a learning environment that values personal experience and insight as essential to full-bodied academic learning and achievement. Through various modes of inquiry, such as contemplative practice, empirical research, theoretical analysis, oral and written narrative, group dynamics, and community engagement, the field of contemplative psychology nourishes individual and collective transformation. The program aims to develop the whole person through experiential learning that broadens and sharpens intellect, deepens intuition, nourishes compassion, and embodies confidence. Drawing from Tibetan Buddhism and contemporary practices of diversity in its myriad forms, the curriculum provides fertile opportunity for understanding complexity, while fostering reciprocal learning across deeply valued difference.

Declaration of Major

In addition to adhering to university requirements and deadlines, Contemplative Psychology requires

• completion of PSYB 101, Introduction to Western Psychology, with a minimum grade of “B-.”