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Postgraduate Program

Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Buddhism and Peace

MPhil in Buddhism and Peace
Program Snapshot

Advanced research in Buddhist thought and peacebuilding.

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program is a two-year research-focused postgraduate degree. Before entering the program, students must complete an 8-month Preliminary Course. The curriculum combines intensive academic writing, extensive thesis work, and contemplative practice.

Duration 2 academic years
Pre-requisite 8-month Preliminary Course
Thesis Required Min 40,000 words (English) / 150 pages (Pali)
Meditation Requirement 21-day meditation retreat
View Structure
Admissions

Entry Requirements

  • Myanmar citizens who meet the specified qualifications are eligible to apply.
  • Monks must hold an MA in Buddhism and achieve a B or C grade in the MPhil Preliminary Course.
  • Laypersons must possess two Buddhist diplomas, a Master's degree from any university, and achieve a B or C grade in the MPhil Preliminary Course.
  • Graduates of the UGP MA program who do not qualify for the PhD program may attend the MPhil program.
  • Foreigners may apply provided they submit complete required information.
Curriculum

Program Structure & Requirements

The MPhil program requires dedicated focus on methodology, proposal building, seminars, and a substantial thesis. Click the links below to view the evaluation criteria and grading system.

Year 1: Foundation & Proposal

  • Students must attend Academic Writing and Research Paper Writing courses in the first half of the first year.
  • Submission of an Academic Paper (min. 3,000 words) and a Research Proposal (min. 3,000 words) is required.
  • View Research Proposal Assessment Criteria
  • View Grading System

Year 1 & 2: Research Seminars

  • During the thesis writing period, students are required to present two seminars.
  • The first seminar occurs at 4 months, presenting at least 40% of the basic facts.
  • The second seminar occurs at 8 months, presenting at least 80% of the facts.
  • Presentations, Q&A, and discussions can be conducted in Pali or English.
  • Students must read at least one research paper in Pali or English during the 2-year period.

Year 2: Thesis & Defense

  • The MPhil thesis must be completed within the two-year duration.
  • The thesis can be written in English (minimum 40,000 words) or Pali (minimum 150 pages).
  • References and citations cannot exceed 20% of the thesis content.
  • View Thesis Assessment Criteria

Final Phase: Contemplative Practice

  • Upon successful completion of the thesis, candidates must complete a 21-day meditation retreat.
  • The degree is awarded only after presenting a recommendation letter confirming the completion of the retreat.
Next steps

How to Apply

For application deadlines and details, please visit our Admissions page.