Aims and Objectives

The programme targets individuals pursuing a master's degree in Buddhist Studies and prospective learners interested in the philosophy, ethics, and culture of Buddhism. It focuses on the Mahāyāna Buddhism which has flourished mainly in East Asia, especially in China. It is a bilingual program. Classroom instruction is primarily conducted in Putonghua, with some courses are taught in English or Cantonese. Each course will involve readings and student research papers in Chinese and English.

The programme aims to nurture scholars by providing professional and comprehensive training in Buddhist studies. It promotes an academic study of Buddhism in various forms within its Asian historical and cultural context. The training and studies are conducted through various approaches, including textual, philosophical, historical and ethical analyses of Buddhism. The programme is expected to provide and promote an Asian holistic Buddhist Studies and to nurture Buddhist talents.

Learning Outcomes

Learning outcomes of the program are as follow:

1. Knowledge 
   To equip students with a comprehensive understanding of Buddhism within its historical, local and global contexts with special emphasis on major traditions of Mahāyāna Buddhism in East Asia.
   
   To provide students with a broad knowledge of Buddhist Studies as a discipline and more specialized expertise in a particular sub-field of concentration. 
    
2. Skills
   To enhance the students’ capabilities of academic enquiry, including logical and critical thinking, as well as the ability to interpret, analyze and articulate sophisticated arguments in Buddhist Studies. 
   
   To help the students develop research skills in Buddhist Studies, including their proficiency in academic writing and presentation, to prepare them for advanced academic research in the field.
    
3. Attitude
   To develop a reflective and empathetic attitude towards understanding Buddhism.
   
   To cultivate an empathetic and appreciative attitude towards the plurality of religions, especially those to which one does not belong.
   
   To help students develop a positive life attitude and to foster a holistic outlook of life critically inspired by and informed with the Buddhist worldview.