AcademicsGraduate AcademicsYoga Studies (Low-Residency)

Master’s Degree in Yoga Studies

Master of Arts in Yoga Studies (Low-Residency)

Gain a deeper knowledge of yoga and transform your practice and life with Naropa’s Master’s Degree in Yoga Studies.

Program Overview

Naropa’s Master of Arts in Yoga Studies, one of only two yoga degrees in the country, is intended for yoga teachers, practitioners, and enthusiasts interested in upgrading their expertise in the diverse array of teachings and practices of yoga throughout history.

During this three-year, low-residency master’s program, you will immerse yourself in yogic forms of meditation, study Buddhist and Indo-Tibetan religious traditions, and unveil knowledge of Sanskrit texts. 

This master’s in yoga consists of online courses and two residential yoga retreats held in Boulder, Colorado.

You’ll receive in-depth training in the history and practices of significant yoga lineages through a contemplative educational approach. This covers studying yoga’s role in various Indian religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sufism. Additionally, the program explores the development of “haṭha yoga” and the rise of modern yoga styles in the twentieth century, including both poses and meditation. 

Naropa’s Master’s Degree in Yoga Studies operates on a “low-residency” model, primarily delivered online with two essential in-person retreats in Boulder, Colorado. This flexible format allows you to join from anywhere, enabling you to balance your professional commitments while pursuing your degree.

The faculty at Naropa’s Yoga Studies are esteemed experts deeply dedicated to the art of contemplative teaching. Immersed in Indian culture and tradition, these educators convey the intricate principles of yogic philosophy while also imparting the profound joy that comes with practicing yoga. 

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Quick Facts

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Program Format

Naropa’s Master’s degree in Yoga is a three-year, low-residency program. The degree is mainly delivered online and it features two in-person sessions in Boulder, Colorado.
Students have the flexibility to join this program from any location, allowing them to balance their work commitments as they pursue their degrees. 

The program kicks off with a nine-day on-site retreat during the first fall semester, fostering community and offering an in-person taste of the contemplative learning experience. Another nine-day retreat is scheduled in the third year’s fall semester.

Course Spotlight

Yoga/Globalization: Inception of Postural Yoga

This course delves into the origins of modern postural yoga, examining textual sources, historical contexts, and geopolitical influences. Students explore critical studies on seminal figures like Swami Vivekananda, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, and Swami Kuvalayananda. Through their primary writings, the course highlights how these pioneers navigated cross-cultural interactions. The curriculum equips students to understand how modern yoga traditions have evolved in a globally diverse landscape.

Degree
Requirements

The Master’s in Yoga Studies is a 43-credit, low-residency Religious Studies MA concentration, offering comprehensive training in Yoga Studies. The program is designed for students interested in doctoral programs as well as yoga teachers and practitioners. 

Students can complete the program from anywhere, as it is mostly online with two nine-day residential retreats in Colorado.

Yoga Studies (Low-Residency) Degree Requirements: 3-Year Option

Two courses include an intensive retreat during the first few weeks of the semester.

  • REL617e Meditation in Yogic and Tantric Traditions: A Practicum (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL577e The Histories and Philosophies of Yoga (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL717e Meditation in Yogic & Tantric Traditions II: A Practicum (3)
  • REL645e Methods and Issues in the Study of Religion (3)

Two courses include an intensive retreat during the first few weeks of the semester

  • REL611e First Turning of the Wheel (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL 634e Hindu Tantric (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL 507e Sanskrit I (4)
  • REL 615e Power Privilege and Diversity (3)
  • REL 537e Sanskrit II (4) or Elective (3)
  • REL 530e Yoga and Globalization: The Inception of Postural Yoga (3)
  • REL 577e Sanskrit III (4) or Elective (3)
  • Elective (3) for Non-Language track students
  • REL 587e Sanskrit IV (4) or Elective (3)
  • Elective (3) or REL 883e Master’s Thesis (required for non-language track students)

Yoga Studies (Low-Residency) Degree Requirements: 2.5-Year Option

Two courses include an intensive retreat during the first few weeks of the semester.

  • REL617e Meditation in Yogic and Tantric Traditions: A Practicum (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL577e The Histories and Philosophies of Yoga (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL717e Meditation in Yogic & Tantric Traditions II: A Practicum (3)
  • REL645e Methods and Issues in the Study of Religion (3)
  • REL537e Sanskrit II (4) or Elective (3)

Two courses include an intensive retreat during the first few weeks of the semester

  • REL611e First Turning of the Wheel (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL 634e Hindu Tantric (3) [Includes Retreat]
  • REL 557e Sanskrit III (4) or Elective (3)
  • REL 615e Power Privilege and Diversity (3)
  • REL 587e Sanskrit IV (4) or Elective (3)
  • Elective (3) [For Students not Taking Upper Level Sanskrit]
  • REL 530e Yoga and Globalization: The Inception of Postural Yoga (3)
  • REL883e Masters Thesis (required for non-language track students) or Elective (3)

Concentration Options

Beyond its extensive curriculum in yoga studies, Sanskrit instruction, and contemplative methods, the program stands out with two unique concentrations.

Buddhist traditions

The foundational practices and teachings of Buddhism significantly influenced classical yoga. Within Naropa’s master’s program in yoga studies, there’s a dedicated exploration of this less-explored realm, highlighting the evolving traditions of Buddhist yoga within the context of Indo-Tibetan Buddhism.

Study of the Yoga of Tantric Traditions

The exploration of Tantric traditions within the realm of yoga remains relatively unexplored in the broader context of yoga history. However, our curriculum delves deeply into this area, shedding significant light on its intricate nuances and contributions.

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Why Choose Naropa?

Accomplished Faculty

The faculty of Naropa's master’s in yoga studies are dedicated scholars deeply immersed in contemplative teaching methods. With a rich background in Indian culture and traditions, they passionately convey intricate yogic philosophies while also instilling a profound sense of wonder associated with yoga practice.

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Study from Anywhere

Naropa's three-year Master's Degree in Yoga Studies adopts a "low-residency" approach, mainly delivered online, complemented by two in-person retreats in Boulder, Colorado. Regardless of your location, you have the flexibility to join this program. Its structured pace allows you to balance your professional commitments while advancing toward your degree.

Contemplative Education

Naropa has a pioneering vision for contemplative education, inspiring the practice of yogic forms of meditation which is a cornerstone of this curriculum. The Yoga Studies program integrates the practice of meditation drawn directly from the yogic systems of the Yogasūtra, Śaiva tantra, Haṭha yoga, and Vedānta.

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How this Program Prepares You

Immersive Education

Besides delving into Sanskrit training, students will have an in-depth exploration of the origins, practices, and philosophies of prominent yoga traditions. Moreover, they will delve into a critical examination of yoga’s intersections with various Indian faiths. Additionally, the coursework traces the rise of inclusive “haṭha yoga” practices and the vibrant evolution of contemporary yoga, encompassing both physical and meditative forms.

Residential Retreats

The master’s in Yoga studies consists of two nine-day residential yoga retreats held in Boulder, Colorado. The first one takes place during the first fall semester, and the second one is scheduled for the third year’s fall semester. These retreats build community and offer an in-person experience of Naropa’s contemplative learning. 

Experienced Faculty

Whether you connect online or face-to-face, your instructors are committed to fostering community through insightful teachings and genuine conversations. Even as you study remotely, pursuing your yoga degree promises a memorable experience filled with community, bonding, and personal development.

What You'll Learn

Contemplative Practice

Enhance your meditation and self-awareness in yoga.

Strong Foundation in Yogic Philosophies

Understand the traditions and religions shaping yoga's teachings.

Proficiency in Sanskrit

Access Sanskrit texts that transmit invaluable teachings on yoga.

Yoga Lineage Insights

Grasp the origins and teachings of diverse yogic traditions.

Career Readiness

Explore career opportunities in yoga studies, creative entrepreneurship, sociology, and more.

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Career Opportunities with a Master’s Degree in Yoga Studies

The master’s degree in yoga studies can lead to a career in the expanding field of yoga research or creative entrepreneurial and service-oriented work in yoga communities worldwide. 

The program can also act as a pathway to doctoral programs in South Asian religions and Indology, as well as disciplines focused on modern postural yoga, such as sociology and anthropology.

Hear from a Graduate

It’s so amazing to hear what all of my classmates are planning on doing with this degree. There are a couple of yoga teachers who want to become better yoga teachers; there are others who want to teach in a community college setting, some who want to go on to do PhDs and do Sanskrit translation. Yoga as an industry is still in its infancy. This academic, accredited certification of achievement is going to set people up to become thought leaders as this industry continues to evolve.

Cassandra Smith

MA Yoga Studies Student

Faculty Highlight

It is important to cultivate discernment in the sense of a historical awareness: the ability to discern many different streams in yogic traditions, and understand their fundamental orientations, outlooks, and practices. This allows us to realize the integrity of each lineage. And thus when we draw from that lineage, we gain greater access to its transformational power.

Ben Williams

PhD, Assistant Professor, Yoga Studies

FAQS about the
Master’s Degree in Yoga Studies

A Master’s degree in Yoga is designed for yoga teachers, enthusiasts, or practitioners. This qualification opens doors to roles in growing areas like yoga research or innovative roles within global yoga communities. Additionally, it can pave the way for further studies in fields like South Asian religions, Indology, and related areas such as sociology and anthropology.

The main difference between Naropa’s Yoga Studies MA (Master’s) and a Yoga Studies BA (Bachelor’s) lies in the depth and specialization of the study. A Master’s program typically delves deeper into advanced topics, and research methodologies, and may require a thesis or comprehensive project. It aims to provide more specialized knowledge and skills for those looking to advance their career or delve deeper into specific areas of yoga, such as research, academia, or specialized practice. In contrast, a Bachelor’s program offers a foundational understanding of yoga, covering essential concepts, history, and practices, but may not have the same level of depth or specialization as a Master’s degree.

Naropa’s low-residency programs give you the flexibility of taking most of your classes online. The program combines online learning with in-person intensives, which immerse you in contemplative practice and coursework—and build community—you can maintain your work and personal life and live the experience of contemplative education. The master’s in yoga studies entails two residential yoga retreats held in Boulder, Colorado, and online courses.

The Yoga Studies program integrates the practice of meditation drawn directly from the yogic systems of the Yogasūtra, Śaiva tantra, Haṭha yoga, and Vedānta. Inspired by Naropa’s pioneering vision for contemplative education, the practice of yogic forms of meditation is a cornerstone of this curriculum. Furthermore, Naropa’s low-residency model allows students to pursue their studies remotely, with scheduled in-person intensives at our campus to deepen their skills.

We have a dedicated FAQ Page with more common questions about our Master’s Degree in Yoga studies. You are welcome to contact counselor Jeffrey Neering for any additional questions you may have. 

Learn More About the Program

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Connect

with your counselor

Jeffrey Neering

Graduate Admissions Counselor

Ready to Apply?

Admission Requirements

As you embark on this journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the criteria that will guide your application process. This section outlines the key prerequisites and qualifications necessary to be considered for admission, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet the expectations of our esteemed institution.
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Individuals who have finished their undergraduate studies are encouraged to apply to Naropa. Applications are submitted online, and require the following documentation:

  • Official transcript of previous graduate or/and undergraduate coursework.
  • Statement of Interest.
  • Resume/CV, with all pertinent academic, employment, and volunteer history with exact dates of participation.
  • Two letters of recommendation from pertinent academic or professional sources.

Applicants that meet the minimum application requirements, will be invited to an interview. Interviews are a required part of the admissions process and will be offered remotely.

Learn more about applying to Naropa.

International students are welcome to Apply! In addition to the graduate admissions requirements, international applicants must submit additional documentation in order for our admissions team to be able to evaluate their application. 

Please see our requirements for international students.

Costs and Financial Aid

Most of our graduate students benefit from financial support through both federal and institutional aid programs. For detailed information on tuition, costs, scholarships, and financial assistance opportunities, please explore our “Costs & Aids” webpage.

Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarships are a great way to help with the costs of going to school. Naropa University offers an array of scholarship opportunities to graduate students. Students may be eligible to receive scholarships through their admissions application, by applying for scholarships, or by being nominated for a scholarship. For more detailed information about the different scholarships available and how to receive them, please review our graduate scholarship page.
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Naropa Campuses Closed on Friday, March 15, 2024

Due to adverse weather conditions, all Naropa campuses will be closed Friday, March 15, 2024.  All classes that require a physical presence on campus will be canceled. All online and low-residency programs are to meet as scheduled.

Based on the current weather forecast, the Healing with the Ancestors Talk & Breeze of Simplicity program scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday will be held as planned.

Staff that do not work remotely or are scheduled to work on campus, can work remotely. Staff that routinely work remotely are expected to continue to do so.

As a reminder, notifications will be sent by e-mail and the LiveSafe app.  

Regardless of Naropa University’s decision, if you ever believe the weather conditions are unsafe, please contact your supervisor and professors.  Naropa University trusts you to make thoughtful and wise decisions based on the conditions and situation in which you find yourself in.