MEET MICHAEL, ACS STUDENT “Asian spiritual and philosophical traditions balance the ever-present tension between study and practice, the scholar and the yogi...it is unusual to find a graduate school that maintains this balance.” Read more » LEARN MORE Request more information How to apply Contact an admissions counselor with your questions: Allyson Werner 415.575.6155 awerner@ciis.edu Next Open House

In today's multicultural and interrelated society, it is crucial that we find ways to foster knowledge of and respect for diverse worldviews of religion and culture. In the Asian and Comparative Studies program, students study several of the world's major religious traditions. They examine sacred texts and writings, practices and disciplines, and sociocultural issues. Language study and research methods complete the curriculum. The program is distinctive in its recognition that spiritual discovery and practice are indispensable adjuncts to academic study. In addition to having access to CIIS faculty, students can partake in lectures, workshops, and trainings by the many teachers of Asian traditions in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Students can choose from among four areas of emphasis within the program:

Comparative Studies: This area encompasses many comparative topics in philosophy or religion, paying particular attention to the three areas of emphasis described below.

Buddhist Studies: Buddhist Studies offers students a rare opportunity for the cognitive and experiential study of the three major traditions of Buddhism: Theravada (South and Southeast Asia), Mahayana (India, China, Tibet), and Tantra (India, Tibet). Students may study the classical languages of Buddhism: Pali, Sanskrit, Chinese, and Tibetan.

Chinese Studies: This emphasis provides the structure for the rigorous study of Chinese philosophies. Coursework covers Taoist, Confucian, and Chinese Buddhist topics. The concentration includes Chinese language study in its classical form.

Hindu Religion and Philosophy: Hindu Religion and Philosophy emphasizes the traditional philosophical schools in Hinduism and affords in-depth study of the Hindu religious traditions. Students may take Sanskrit language courses, which are often taught from the engaged perspective of Hindu practitioners.

In the Asian and Comparative Studies program, students develop practical skills in research, teaching, language, translation, and cross-cultural communication. While they acquire the academic credentials needed to secure teaching positions, students also learn to envision creative applications of philosophy outside of mainstream academia—in areas such as spiritual pursuits, counseling, organizational consulting, or social and political action. For more information, call 415.575.6155.